19.09.24 LONDON, Connected Places Catapult, the UK’s innovation accelerator for cities, transport, and place leadership, today announced the small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) selected to take part in the 2024 Maritime Accelerator.
Six SMEs will be supported on the five-month programme to help develop their innovations and progress them towards commercial readiness. Successful applicants will have an opportunity to access between £10,000 and £20,000 of funding to trial solutions with programme partners; along with business and investment support, coaching and mentoring provided by the Catapult.
Partners on the programme are DP World, Houlder, Maersk, Portsmouth International Port, Port of Tyne, The Royal Navy, Serco, and the University of Plymouth.
This year, the Maritime Accelerator welcomed applications from companies that offer solutions in four challenge areas: power, propulsion and vessel operations; shore side technology and infrastructure; safety and security; and resource management.
Introducing the six SMEs selected for the Maritime Accelerator:
ACUA Ocean is building a hybrid, hydrogen-electric powered SWATH USV (small water-plane twin hull uncrewed surface vessel) for the deployment of sensors and systems in the offshore energy and maritime security sectors.
Cryogenx is developing medical technology for a hotter planet, including a lifesaving portable body cooling device for heatstroke. Extreme heat kills more people than all other natural hazards combined.
Purple Transform has created an AI platform called SiYtE to enhance decision-making in sectors including maritime. Real-time data from CCTV, sensors and third-party feeds provide insights to improve safety, security and efficiency.
Rux Energy is developing nanoporous materials and advanced carbon composite tanks for energy storage; enabling the energy transition for sectors including maritime, delivering efficient, safe and low-cost hydrogen.
SpatialCortex is a safety technology company creating wearable sensors and AI-driven analytics to prevent workplace injuries, reduce costs, enhance productivity, ensure compliance and protect employee wellbeing.
Stellar Advanced Concepts has developed drag reduction surface textures for ship hulls to enhance vessel performance, giving fuel savings with less environmental impact, maintenance needs and installation costs compared to conventional coatings.
