Seven companies shortlisted for innovation award
The jury behind the Seafood Innovation Award has selected the finalists who will pitch their ideas.
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In the search for the best and most promising start-up companies in the aquaculture industry, the jury of the Seafood Innovation Award has selected seven finalists, reports Fish Farming Expert's Norwegian sister site, Kyst.no.
The chosen companies will have the opportunity to showcase themselves at the North Atlantic Seafood Forum (NASF) in Bergen and present their business idea to the jury there, with a number of companies and investors present in the audience.
The winner will receive a cash prize plus tailored entrepreneurial support in key areas such as strategy, marketing, and business development.
International participation
Project manager Cathrine Ulvatne at NCE Seafood Innovation told Kyst.no that the jury had many strong applicants this year and a large international participation.
"The seven finalists who will pitch are: Norwegian Mycelium AS, Harbor AS, GreenFish, Waive AS, BiOceanOr, Bifrost Tug AS, and Hailia Nordic. The companies come from Finland, Iceland, Norway, and France and represent a wide range of innovative solutions, from technological innovations to sustainable production methods."
Was there something specific you were looking for among the applicants?
"We are looking for those who can help solve some of the challenges facing the aquaculture industry. The companies are assessed based on several key criteria, including environmental impact, business idea, the team's competence, and the company's growth potential," said Ulvatne.
Ideas meet capital
The finalists will present their ideas to the jury at the North Atlantic Seafood Forum conference on March 5. The prize will be awarded on March 6.
According to NASF communications manager Ben-Erik Ness, there will be many top executives from large global companies present during the pitching, all of whom are looking for new technology.
"Presenting your business idea here gives you attention you won't get elsewhere. NASF is one of the best places to establish connections in the industry, with many investors present. It is a place where ideas can meet capital."
Ness is clear that this not only benefits the winner but also the other companies that get to showcase themselves to leading players in the seafood industry.
The necessary boost
For the winner, Ulvatne said the prize can be a kickstart for success.
"The goal is to give the company the necessary boost to bring an innovative idea, product, or service into the aquaculture industry."
She explained that they are looking for start-ups that not only have an exciting solution but also understand their market and know who their customers are.
"This ensures they get maximum value from the prize. At the same time, it is crucial that the winner has the capacity to utilise the resources we offer, so they can take the next step and truly make a difference in the industry," Ulvatne said.
Last year's winner
Last year, it was Blue Lice and its lice attraction and trapping technology that won the award.
Karoline Sjødal Olsen, general manager at Blue Lice, told Kyst.no that it meant a great deal for the company to win.
"We are now in a new stage where we want more potential customers to hear about the results we have and what our technology can contribute to them. Therefore, it is perfect to be allowed to showcase it through this award," she emphasised after the victory was secured last year.
