DfT launches smart maritime innovation fund to harness benefits of AI

The Department for Transport has launched an £8 million Smart Shipping Acceleration Fund to drive maritime innovation and harness the benefits of AI to boost productivity.

The Innovate UK managed fund will support feasibility studies to develop smart shipping technologies such as AI, robotics, and autonomous vessels. Winning projects will require match funding, leveraging says DfT, further investment from the private sector.

Maritime Minister, Lord Davies, said, “AI has the potential to revolutionise the sector, create jobs and support the economy. Using AI and cutting-edge technology to make boats smarter and transform port operations is part of our plan to decarbonise shipping, enhance safety for our seafarers and help grow the economy.

The funding comes from the wider £206 million UK Shipping Office for Reducing Emissions (UK SHORE) programme, announced in March 2022.

Mike Biddle, Executive Director for Net Zero at Innovate UK said, “The UK is recognised as a global leader in digital technology and this new fund will enhance that reputation in the maritime sector too. Innovate UK are excited to see industry-led consortia pioneer smart shipping feasibility studies that will demonstrate a clear commercial pathway and positive environmental impact in the near future. This is the latest investment as part of our key partnership with DfT around the delivery of UK SHORE to boost innovation across the UK’s vibrant maritime sector.”

Chris Shirling-Rooke, Chief Executive at Maritime UK, added, “This new fund will allow the fostering of innovation and embracing of cutting-edge technologies, so we can ensure the UK maintains its position as one of the global centres for green maritime technology.

“This support will enable our top innovators and entrepreneurs to not only drive substantial economic gains but also respond dynamically to the major challenges and opportunities within the UK’s most important sector.

Peter Aylott, Director of Policy at UK Chamber of Shipping described the funding as “an important step in driving UK cutting edge technology and moving projects from the drawing board to reality”.