The PIER has welcomed Northern Ireland Maritime and Offshore (NIMO), supported by Belfast Harbour, as the newest member of the Port Innovators Network (PIN), expanding the global association’s reach and collaborative capabilities.
PIN brings together organisations from across the maritime sector to boost innovation and encourage knowledge sharing throughout the global ports ecosystem.
NIMO connects industry, government and academia in Northern Ireland to develop sustainable and innovative solutions for the maritime and offshore sectors.
“What excites us most about joining PIN is the two-way benefit it creates,” NIMO executive director Dr Kerry Muldoon said. “Our innovative SMEs gain exposure beyond Northern Ireland, while other PIN members gain direct access to the capability and innovation we’ve built here.”
NIMO members bring expertise in autonomous systems, offshore renewable energy, innovative port technologies and technology transfer from aerospace into marine applications. Through PIN’s international matchmaking network, the organisation aims to create faster commercial and knowledge-sharing opportunities for Northern Ireland-based innovators.
Belfast Harbour, Northern Ireland’s principal maritime gateway, handles approximately 70% of the region’s seaborne trade and 25% of the island of Ireland’s seaborne trade. The trust port also supports significant economic activity, contributing to £8.8 billion in total gross value added to the regional economy.
Belfast Harbour people and digital transformation director Mike Dawson said the port is laying the foundation for its digital future under its 2025-50 Masterplan. Current initiatives include enhanced connectivity, live monitoring, automated environmental and fuel monitoring, and digitalized documentation.
The PIER executive director David Thomas welcomed the partnership, saying NIMO and Belfast Harbour would bring valuable innovation and practical experience to PIN’s growing international network.
The new members will attend PIN’s plenary in Valencia in October, where discussions will focus on strategy, port resilience and innovation. The programme will also include participation in the Valencia Digital Summit’s Port Entrepreneurship and International Congress.
