Aquatic spaces are gaining recognition as powerful engines of innovation and sustainable economic growth. This vision is at the core of the Blue Economy, which mirrors nature’s efficiency and follows the principles of a circular economy.
Enter BLUEDOTS, a groundbreaking European project funded by the European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA). Officially launched, the initiative aims to drive social and digital innovation among social enterprises within the Blue Economy, paving the way for smart, sustainable, and inclusive economic models.
Running from 2024 to 2026, BLUEDOTS will empower SMEs and other stakeholders in the Blue Economy by offering:
- Capacity building through training tailored to their unique needs.
- Networking opportunities to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange.
- Coaching and advisory services to facilitate the adoption of digital solutions.
What’s Coming Next?
The BLUEDOTS project is set to deliver a range of impactful activities:
- Mapping Digital Needs: Conducting an in-depth analysis of SMEs’ digital maturity to identify gaps and opportunities.
- Developing a Training Curriculum: Equipping SMEs with essential digital tools and practices to boost their operational efficiency.
- Tailored Mentorship: Providing one-on-one coaching to ensure effective integration of digital solutions.
- Living Labs: Creating interactive innovation hubs for pilot testing and real-world application of digital tools.
- Awareness Campaigns: Reframing the narrative on digital transformation in the Blue Economy, with a focus on the social economy’s potential.
The BLUEDOTS project is an invitation to reimagine how the Blue Economy can harness the power of digital innovation. By fostering collaboration, providing critical resources, and driving digitalisation, the project will contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive future for aquatic-based industries.
