The Science and technology park of Montenegro, in collaboration with the Institute of Marine Biology, organized the workshop “The Importance of the Blue Biotechnology Community for Economic growth in Montenegro” today at the Institute of Marine Biology (Street I. Bokeljske Brigade 68, 85330 Kotor).

NTP CG is a partner in the implementation of the INTERREG-MED project titled “Building the Blue Biotechnology Community in the Mediterranean” (B-Blue). The B-Blue project brings together the Med Blue Biotechnologies (BBt) community to strengthen its innovation capacities and support joint Mediterranean initiatives on innovative solutions in the sector.

At the beginning of the event, the director of the Science and technology park, Velibor Bošković, addressed the audience, expressing his satisfaction that such an important topic for Montenegro’s economic growth is being discussed.

He emphasized that this topic has not received enough attention and highlighted the necessity of mutual cooperation and institutional support.

Tanja Rakonjac, representing STP, presented the achievements of the B-Blue project so far.

“Through the B-Blue project, STP aims to further engage all key stakeholders in Montenegro in recognizing potential blue technologies. More importantly, STP seeks to strengthen the connections between transnational BLUE actors and the IT community in Montenegro,” Rakonjac stated.

Since the Institute of Marine Biology is a cornerstone of BLUE technology development in Montenegro, the workshop also featured speeches from the Institute’s director Aleksandar Joksimović and research associates Branka Pestorić and Mirko Đurović.

Director Aleksandar Joksimović spoke about the challenges they face and the enormous potential that needs to be harnessed. He provided insights into the current situation in the field of blue growth, while Branka Pestorić presented the Blue Growth project.

Branka emphasized that the ultimate goal of the ongoing project is the transfer and dissemination of results, as well as the utilization of blue economy and entrepreneurship development for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Mirko Đurović, speaking on behalf of the Institute, outlined the next steps, including the formation of a Blue Growth cluster in Montenegro.

“The Blue Growth Cluster aims to connect as many institutions as possible from both the private sector and public administration in the field of blue growth. The cluster would function as a coordinated body, with a dedicated coordinator who, in the first year of operation, would prepare up to three project proposals or participate as a partner in three upcoming project calls,” Đurović explained.

The workshop also featured partners from the B-Blue project.

Antun Nadramija, from the Croatian Agency for SMEs, Innovations, and Investments (HAMAG BICRO), presented the project’s achievements so far and introduced the Matchmarking Tool.
Sandi Orlić, from the Ruđer Bošković Institute, also shared insights on project activities.
“The goal of the application is to connect SMEs with each other, as well as with scientific research organizations and potential investors. The ultimate objective is to generate profit and enhance the visibility of individual SMEs seeking business partners or offering services within the Mediterranean region,” Nadramija explained.

The workshop aimed to present the project’s objectives and achievements to potential partners and stakeholders, as well as to highlight potential directions for further development in this highly promising field, which holds significant potential for sustainable economic growth.

Following the workshop, participants visited the newly opened “Boka” aquarium.