Les saken på norsk Ocean Access has initiated an exciting research project in Croatia, aiming to combine hyperspectral satellite data with in-depth measurements collected at various depths in the ocean. This integration seeks to provide new insights into critical marine phenomena, including algae blooms. The Trondheim-based technology company, Ocean Access, plans to deploy its research buoy in Norwegian and Croatian waters to continuously collect data from different depths. These in-situ measurements will complement hyperspectral satellite data, which only covers the surface layer. By effectively seeing beneath the surface, the project aims to create a more complete picture of the ocean environment — including deeper layers often not visible via satellite. “The collaboration arose after a trip to Croatia, organized by the Ocean Autonomy Cluster, where we connected with several relevant partners,” says Fredrik Lilleøkdal, CTO of Ocean Access. “Two companies, LIST LABS and BlueDataB, stood out as exciting partners in the satellite data field,” he adds. One of the Croatian partners, BluedataB, has significant experience with satellite-based remote monitoring and provides solutions for industries such as aquaculture. With Ocean Access’s technology, the project partners can now explore how continuous underwater monitoring can complement this remote sensing approach for more detailed data. Ocean Access develops submersible data buoys for collecting ocean data. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Efficient Four-Month Project Timeline Ocean Access CEO Andreas Mauritzen describes the project as a fast-paced collaboration, with a goal of delivering actionable results within just four months. “This project has the potential to make physical monitoring more cost-effective and scalable,” says Mauritzen. “We’re also exploring possibilities for expanding this cooperation both technically and commercially.” Part of MATIN Project Digital innovation HUB Innovamare and Ocean Autonomy Cluster (OAC) received funding from EEA grants to establish the Croatia – Norway Marine Technology Innovation network. Throughout the project, we have enabled companies from Croatia and Norway to collaborate on the development, testing, and validation of innovative marine technologies, with the aim of increasing joint investments in the blue economy, developing shared patents, and advancing applied research. This is a fantastic example of cluster effects; a cluster member that, through collaboration with a Croatian cluster, has established a cross-border partnership, says Frode Halvorsen of Ocean Autonomy Cluster. Ocean Access is a member of the FI Ocean Space Incubator and the Ocean Autonomy Cluster. About Ocean Access Founded in 2020 and based in Trondheim, Norway, Ocean Access develops submersible data buoys designed for comprehensive data collection in ocean environments. Their buoys operate both underwater and at the surface, equipped with a variety of sensors that enable detailed, continuous measurements. The system minimizes maintenance costs by protecting the buoy under the surface and can transmit collected data when it rises. The company operates out of Transittgata 14, Trondheim, and has ten employees. Do you like to know more? For more details about the project, please contact: Andreas Mauritzen, CEO and Co-Founder, andreas@oceanaccess.no, +47 942 57 323 Fredrik Lilleøkdal, CTO and Co-Founder, fredrik@oceanaccess.no, +47 988 41 415
Les saken på norsk: Ocean Access vant årets etablererstipend Ocean Access was one of three emerging companies in Trøndelag to receive the Entrepreneurial Grant from the Adolf Øien Foundation. The Entrepreneurial Grant is awarded to Trondheim-based startup companies and innovation projects in their early stages. The winners are selected by the board of the Adolf Øien Foundation, in consultation with an independent expert jury, after tough competition with around thirty applicants. The grant was presented during the region's largest business event, Manifestation 2024, organized by the Trondheim Region Business Association. Andreas Mauritzen and Fredrik Lilleøkdal from Ocean Access received the grant from Gry Haug Binde, CEO of the Adolf Øien Foundation. The Entrepreneurial Grant is about much more than just money. Equally important is the recognition that comes with it, she says. Photo: Maren Terese Forsbakk/Lykt Monitoring is the common denominator These are entrepreneurs and companies that have taken significant risks and are in the phase often referred to as the 'Valley of Death'. I believe that those of us around them have one important task: to cheer them on! Remember, these are the top 3 out of 30 exceptionally talented people and companies who applied, representing some of the best minds and talents in this region, says Binde. Gry Haug Binde, Adolf Øiens Fond. Photo: Maren Terese Forsbakk/Lykt Monitoring is the common denominator for this year's winners. Ocean Access is not the first to offer remote monitoring at sea, but with their submersible buoy, they have developed a solution that works in harmony with the elements, says Gry Haug Binde. Exciting technology companies In addition to Ocean Access, two other exciting technology companies also received this year’s Entrepreneurial Grant. In-Motion Technologies has developed a tool for the early and precise detection of symptoms of cerebral palsy in newborns. Aimses has developed a smart sensor that can monitor the health of electric machines in everything from wind farms to cars and airplanes – detecting faults before they occur. Ocean Access is a member of both the Ocean Autonomy Cluster and FI Ocean Space Incubator. Winners of the Adolf Øien Entrepreneurial Grant 2024. Photo: Maren Terese Forsbakk/Lykt Adolf Øien’s Entrepreneurial Grant The Adolf Øien Foundation for Business Development provides capital through the Entrepreneurial Grant for entrepreneurs and innovative projects in Trondheim and the surrounding area. The Entrepreneurial Grant was established in 2009, and through our donations, we aim to support entrepreneurial ventures and innovative projects that have the potential to become tomorrow's growth companies. The requirement for recipients is that the business must be founded by individuals who have completed a master’s degree in economics and/or technology – primarily from NTNU – and that the business concept has the potential to create a ripple effect in the Trondheim region. The UN’s Sustainable Development Goals are prioritized in the allocations from the Adolf Øien Foundation for Business Development and will be considered in the application review process.