The Ocean Power Innovation Network (OPIN) Project has launched its Innovation Support programme.
Under the programme three different types of Innovation Support is made available to SMEs (Small or Medium sized Enterprises).
OPIN partners will offer a Technology Assessment Process (TAP) to SMEs, free of charge.
During a TAP, OPIN partners will discuss with the technology developer design principles, opportunities to de-risk onward development and the route to commercialization.
The TAP is open to developers in the ocean sector who are looking to develop their technology and to developers in other sectors who are looking for opportunities to transfer technology into ocean energy, OPIN explained.
Furthermore, OPIN will offer supports to SMEs to work collaboratively with other SMEs and/or research entities or large companies, to solve specific problems which are barriers to deployment of ocean energy.
OPIN will offer support to a Collaborative Innovation Group (CIG) to work together to find a solution to the specific problem identified. CIGs should focus on challenges which cannot or have not been solved by one SME alone and aim to include complementary skills and expertise.
In addition, OPIN will provide travel support to SMEs travelling abroad either to take part in an OPIN workshop or masterclass, or to take part in a Collaborative Innovation Group meeting or activity.
According to OPIN, Travel Support is only available to SMEs registered in Ireland or the Scottish Enterprise region.