The Waterborne Technology Platform and the EU's R&D&I policy

In this episode of Maritime Matters, host Dr. Matthias Catón sits down with Jaap Gebraad, Secretary General of the Waterborne Technology Platform. Together, they explore the European waterborne sector’s strategies, collaborative efforts, and pathways to innovation, especially as the industry works towards zero-emission and digitalisation goals. Jaap Gebraad shares behind-the-scenes perspectives on how Europe organises research and development priorities for maritime and inland navigation, addresses the complexities of EU funding, fosters business collaboration, and boosts communication about the sector’s progress. The episode also features practical advice for organisations looking to get involved and discusses potential developments for the EU’s maritime sector within the upcoming years.

Key Topics:

-What Is Waterborne? Explaining the Waterborne Technology Platform and its comprehensive approach to both maritime and inland navigation sectors across Europe.

-Engagement with EU Institutions: How the platform works together closely with multiple European Commission departments.

-Membership and Working Groups: How organisations can join and participate in Waterborne’s three focused technical working groups.

-German Lens: An overview of German participation, strengths, and areas for further involvement within the platform.

-EU Funding for Maritime Innovation:A breakdown of key funding programs and tips for SMEs to access them.

-Zero Emission Transition & Industry Challenges: A discussion of decarbonisation and possible public funding solutions to reach zero emission goals.

-Digitalisation and the Future: Current focus on digital innovation, automation, and integration as critical factors for the European maritime sector’s long-term success.

Guest Bio: Jaap Gebraad is the Secretary General of the Waterborne Technology Platform, Europe’s key forum for shaping research and innovation in maritime and inland waterborne transport. Previously, Jaap Gebraad held pivotal roles such as Director of Research and Development at Sea Europe, Executive Director of the Waterborne Technology Platform, and Board Secretary and Senior Project Manager at the Foundation STC Group. His background also includes a tenure as Daily Secretary for the European Association Edina. Renowned for his expertise in guiding collaborative strategies for a sustainable, innovative, and competitive European waterborne sector, he is at the forefront of projects driving zero-emission transport and digital transformation across the industry.

Nautical Numbers: This episode’s striking nautical number: €530 million – the public budget for the Zero Emission Waterborne Transport Partnership via Horizon Europe, with private players simultaneously investing an impressive €3.3 billion, representing a leverage factor of 6 – the highest within Horizon Europe’s partnerships. This underscores the sector’s proactive, innovative spirit that’s too often underestimated.

Navigator’s Table:Jaap Gebraad’s hidden gem recommendation: Varoulko Seaside, a standout fish restaurant nestled in the bay of Piraeus, Greece. It offers stunning ocean views and exceptional seafood, which makes it a perfect spot discovered thanks to business travel. If you find yourself in Athens, make sure to try out this unforgettable maritime dining experience.

Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe to Maritime Matters for more insights and interviews with thought leaders shaping the maritime world. To learn more about Germany’s maritime sector or to engage with ongoing debates, visit the German Maritime Centre’s website – and share this episode with colleagues interested in the future of the European maritime industry.

Stay tuned for more global perspectives through a German lens.