Germany’s Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure has launched the second call for applications as part of the Funding Program for Innovative Port Technologies.
With the program, entitled Förderprogramm für Innovative Hafentechnologien (IHATEC), the ministry supports projects which demonstrably contribute to developing or adapting innovative technologies in ports.
As explained, the country wants to facilitate optimization of cargo handling operations amid increasing throughput. For this purpose, the ministry has decided to allocate around EUR 64 million (USD 77 million) in the period between 2016 and 2020.
“Germany needs a strong maritime economy. With our funding program, we are transforming German ports to digital hubs, providing EUR 64 million. In this way, we support ports to develop innovative technologies and optimize throughput of goods,” Minister Alexander Dobrindt commented.
The program IHATEC focuses on companies in the commercial economy, research and educational institutions, non-university institutions and engineering firms.
During the first call which was open by the end of 2016, 75 applications for 27 joint projects were received. Until now, around EUR 19 million of funds were granted.
The projects vary from the IT-optimized process control, application of automatized systems for handling of goods to measures for fighting cyber attacks.
World Maritime News Staff