The project, representing a decisive step towards establishing Peniche as a leader in the Blue Economy, is in its final stages. The total investment amounts to 6.8 million euros, funded 100% by the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR). This figure represents an increase of over 2.5 million euros compared to the 4.3 million euros in 2022, with no municipal financial contribution.
During the visit, the scientific coordinator, Sérgio Leandro, presented the modalities for company integration within the innovation ecosystem: physical incubation, virtual incubation, and soft landing. These modalities will allow for the reception of projects in various development stages, including international companies.
SmartOcean aims to create an innovation ecosystem that brings together companies, researchers, universities, and investors. The objective is to promote knowledge transfer, entrepreneurship, and the creation of skilled employment.
“"SmartOcean is not just an investment in infrastructure. It is an investment in Peniche's economic future. We want to transform knowledge into companies, research into opportunities, and the potential of our sea into wealth and qualified employment for our community."
“"This project has the capacity to profoundly transform the blue economy of our territory, attract investment, retain talent, and create a true innovation ecosystem linked to the sea. We are creating conditions for Peniche to be not only a reference for its maritime history but also for its capacity to lead the future of the Blue Economy."
The Mayor of Peniche, Filipe Sales, highlighted that this investment is an opportunity for the territory's economic transformation. "The sea has always been part of our history. With SmartOcean, we want it to be at the center of our future too," he stated, emphasizing that Peniche continues to move forward.
