Join the next edition of the Blue Economy Science Summit (BESS), where representatives from science, industry and policy meet with the aim of stimulating the economic valorization of research within the blue economy. It offers a platform where supply and demand meet and where insights from research are linked to concrete applications and impact.
In doing so, the event contributes to making scientific knowledge visible, strengthening the link with companies – ideally at an early stage of innovation – and feeding the innovation pipeline. At the same time, BESS plays a role in activating the broader ecosystem and bringing together a community around innovation, business, and research, with the aim of stimulating interaction, collaboration, and new ideas.
The event promises to be a dynamic platform for networking, knowledge exchange, and active participation in shaping the future of the blue economy.
Don't miss this unique opportunity to connect with industry leaders, researchers, and innovators, contributing to the ongoing dialogue on the sustainable future of the blue economy.
Draft programme
A comprehensive plenary session (13:30-15:15)
with notable presentations on the tools and mechanisms for Economic and Social Valorisation with insights from Incubator and accelerator programs, funding opportunities, learn about the Knowledge and Innovation Community (KIC) Water and the upcoming Mission Ocean Hubs as well as hear testimonies from successful valorisation examples.
Confirmed speakers: Koen Verhaeghe (VLAIO), Evy Debruycker (Marifish Inc. / Voka), Goedele Verreydt (Iflux) and Steven Nauwelaerts, Kinnie De Beule (DBC - EIT Water) and Jonas Lescroart (VLIZ - BMB2030)
Coffee break (15:15-15:45)
Break-out sessions (15:45-17:15)
Data & Digital Twins: From Insights to Applications
The maritime sector and the marine research community are generating an ever-growing wealth of data, sensor networks, and digital models. In this session, we will explore how these building blocks can be translated into practical applications, the role that initiatives such as digital twins can play, and how collaboration between researchers, technology developers, and end users can be strengthened.
Pitch presentations by Seafar, Amplifino and the Living Dunes/Coast project will be followed by an interactive discussion focusing on three concrete challenges.
Blue Carbon: From Research to Application
Blue Carbon is receiving increasing attention as a potential lever for achieving climate goals and creating new economic opportunities. At the same time, many human activities affect the role of the ocean and its ecosystems in climate regulation. This session will explore how Flanders' strong knowledge base can be translated into practical applications, collaborative initiatives, and innovative business opportunities, as well as the steps needed to make this happen.
Dr. Peter Landschützer (VLIZ) will introduce us to the world of Blue Carbon. This will be followed by a deep dive into the current policy landscape, as well as a call to action and collaboration from the Bernardo, WetCoast, and Blue Alkalinity projects.
Floating Offshore Wind: From Innovation Challenge to Opportunity
Floating offshore wind is widely regarded as the next major step in offshore renewable energy, but what innovations are needed to turn this ambition into reality? This session will bring together researchers, companies, and other stakeholders to discuss key challenges, emerging insights, and opportunities for collaboration that can help accelerate the development of this promising technology.
Michael Murphy (DBC - i3float) will provide a more in-depth overview of the Strategic Innovation Agenda and present the Open Call, followed by several case studies, including Multi Engineering. The interactive workshop will also focus on a number of key challenges and explore how collaboration can lead to potential solutions and new project ideas.
Networking reception (17:30-19:00)
to meet new contacts or strengthen existing contacts and start new opportunities together.
Practical information
- Date: Tuesday 6 October 2026, 13:30 until 19:00
- Venue: Innovocean Campus, Jacobsenstraat 1, 8400 Oostende
- Registration: Registration is free but mandatory - click here for the registration form
The Blue Economy Science Summit (BESS) is a coorganisation between Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ) and Blue Cluster.