NBOC to Anchor New Space Dedicated to Maritime Businesses

by Jennifer Downing | Dec 12, 2024 | Blog

NBOC to Anchor New Space Dedicated to Maritime Businesses

The Quest: New Bedford’s Enterprise Hub (previously The Quest Center) will undergo major renovations to transform the facility into an office and convening space that will facilitate the growth of New Bedford’s business community. The three-story, City-owned facility at 1213 Purchase Street will be enhanced from top to bottom, including a new entry lobby, atrium stairs, and common areas, as well as a completely renovated top floor with dedicated space for maritime industry businesses, which will be anchored by the New Bedford Ocean Cluster.

“Successful cluster organizations around the world in places like Iceland and the UK have office and convening space to facilitate the growth of their maritime clusters. We frequently get office space requests from blue economy companies, so this new space will no doubt meet a growing need as our blue economy continues to grow here in New Bedford.” – Jennifer Downing, NBOC Executive Director

NBOC Attends Seafood Expo North America

by Jennifer Downing | Apr 1, 2024 | Blog, Fishing

NBOC Attends Seafood Expo North America

NBOC Business Development Manager, Carlos Avila, attended the Seafood Expo in Boston, March 10-12, the largest seafood trade show in North America. The expo showcased over 1,200 seafood companies representing importers, exporters, and processors from over 45 nations and provided the NBOC a great opportunity to network with local fisheries and processing partners from New Bedford.

The event clearly demonstrated the scale and many markets within the commercial fishing industry from catch to processing, buyers and

sellers, and storage and logistical freight needed to transport fresh products globally. The event was full of energy with large international delegations passionately representing their nation’s seafood markets.

Amidst these vibrant displays, engaging crowds, and delicious samples, local seafood companies like Northern Wind, Marder, Raw Seafoods, Atlantic Cape Fisheries, Seatrade International, Eastern Fisheries, and Red’s Best, distinguished themselves as leaders in the industry, solidifying the Port of New Bedford’s long-standing position as the #1 commercial fishing port in the country.

If you’re in the seafood industry, the Expo should be on your calendar. It’s a must-see event and we look forward to attending again when it returns to Boston next year.

NBOC Hosts Ecosystem Tour for Blue Tech Companies in New Bedford

by Jennifer Downing | Mar 20, 2024 | Blog, Innovation & Technology, News

NBOC Hosts Ecosystem Tour for Blue Tech Companies in New Bedford

In late February, the NBOC attended the Blue Innovation Symposium in Newport, Rhode Island. The BIS is the region’s premier blue technology event and truly keeps with its mantra of “by the industry, for the industry.” This year’s event presented a diverse range of topics and attracted 300 attendees, 100 speakers, and 40 exhibitors. The NBOC was among one of them and we certainly valued our time on the show floor meeting with so many ocean technology start-ups and SMEs advancing products and services to support our pillar industries.

Immediately following the conference, the NBOC hosted an Ecosystem Tour in New Bedford for 30 conference attendees, which included mostly blue technology companies. A good portion of those companies were part of a Canadian delegation organized by the Consulate General of Canada in Boston. During the tour, attendees heard presentations from NBOC Executive Director, Jennifer Downing; New Bedford Port Authority Executive Director, Gordon Carr; and the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center’s Managing Director for Offshore Wind, Bruce Carlisle. They also participated in a Port Tour and visited New Bedford Research and Robotics and UMass Dartmouth’s School for Marine Science & Technology.

According to Jennifer Downing, “Attending the Blue Innovation Symposium and having the opportunity to host post conference tours in New Bedford for attendees over the last two years has helped the NBOC expand its blue tech network and develop several business connections that could have big impacts for New Bedford’s ocean economy. Bravo to Toby Stapleton and his team at the Blue Venture Forum for putting on another stellar event. We are pleased to participate and support it.”

Consortium of Partners from Rhode Island & Southeastern Massachusetts Launch Ocean Tech Hub

by Jennifer Downing | Mar 2, 2024 | Blog, Innovation & Technology

Consortium of Partners from Rhode Island & Southeastern Massachusetts Launch Ocean Tech Hub

In October, Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts were named 1 of 31 Tech Hubs, designated by the Biden-Harris Economic Development Administration (EDA). The Ocean Tech Hub of Southeastern New England (OTH) is a consortium-led cross-state initiative committed to activating the ocean technology ecosystem through research and innovation in undersea robotics, automation, advanced materials, and composites. (Read the full release here).

The OTH strategy builds upon Rhode Island’s Grow Blue initiative and the comprehensive study, Charting the Course: A Regional Assessment of the Marine Science & Technology Sector in Southeastern New England that was conducted by UMass Dartmouth in 2019.

The OTH Consortium, which is being coordinated by Rhode Island Commerce Corporation and includes the NBOC, UMass Dartmouth, the Southeastern Regional Planning and Economic Development District, and other partners. As an EDA Tech Hub Designee, the OTH is eligible to compete in Phase 2 of the competition to potentially receive between $40-$70 million in implementation funding to support the advancement of our efforts. Tech Hub proposals are due to the EDA on February 29^th and awards will be announced by the summer.

The NBOC has also joined with the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) and the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) to advance a project to develop and enhance critically needed ocean testing sites, programs and services that will support the commercialization of the key technology focus areas to grow the OTH, with an emphasis on ocean renewable energy (ORE) industry applications. The project’s ocean testing sites and support services will run through, and in parallel with, a new ORE Innovation Center being developed by MassCEC in the Port of New Bedford to support innovation, business incubation, and technology transfer.

Jennifer Downing, NBOC Executive Director believes the regional OTH is poised for success. “Those of us in economic development know that collaboration, especially across state lines, is challenging to say the least. However, it takes leadership and vision to get out of our siloes and look beyond our borders to leverage opportunities that if successful, will only make us stronger together. The Ocean Tech Hub is one such opportunity. Regardless of what happens with this competition, the Ocean Tech Hub is laying a strong foundation for regional collaboration and industry growth into the future.”

New Bedford Offshore Wind Conference

by Jeffrey Wotton | Feb 11, 2024 | Blog, Events, News

October 5th-6th, 2023

The City of New Bedford has for generations been tied to the sea. The Port of New Bedford is home to America’s highest grossing commercial fishing industry. Today, it is also home to America’s first, commercial-scale offshore wind project, Vineyard Wind 1. New Bedford is once again lighting the world, actively positioning itself to be a leading hub for the U.S. offshore wind industry and a robust ecosystem for blue innovation and technology. Taking place in historic, downtown New Bedford, the conference was a unique and immersive industry event that included tours, diverse program tracks, and ample networking opportunities with industry leaders and key stakeholders at the center of advancing offshore wind in New Bedford and the Commonwealth.

Visit the 2024 Conference Website

Sign up for 2024 conference updates

Didn’t join us for our 2023 conference? Check out last year’s agenda.

Thursday, October 5th

Networking Breakfast: 8:00 – 8:50 a.m. at the New Bedford Whaling Museum, Harbor View Gallery, Sponsored by DEME Group

Opening Remarks & Keynote Presentations: 9:05-10:20 a.m. at the New Bedford Whaling Museum, Cook Memorial Theater
Welcome: Jennifer Downing, New Bedford Ocean Cluster; Keynote Presentations: John Mitchell, Mayor of New Bedford; Jan Kjaersgaard, GE Renewables; Klaus Moeller, Vineyard Wind

Break: 10:20-10:35 a.m.

Panel Discussion on Fishing & Offshore Wind Coexistence Challenges & Opportunities: 10:35-11:35 a.m. at the New Bedford Whaling Museum, Cook Memorial Theater
Panelists: Eric Reid, New Bedford Ocean Cluster & New England Fishery Management Council; Crista Bank, Vineyard Wind; Gordon Carr, New Bedford Port Authority; Capt. Jarrett Drake, New Bedford Lobsterman

Lunch: 11:35 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the New Bedford Whaling Museum, Harbor View Gallery

Break: 12:30-1:00 p.m. (Board buses and travel to program tracks)

Program Tracks: 1:00-3:00 p.m.

Workforce Development & Training, “Developing a Diverse & Equitable Offshore Wind Workforce of the Future” at Bristol Community College’s National Offshore Wind Institute

Track includes a facility tour, fireside chat with NOWI leadership, and a panel discussion with industry leaders.

Speakers & Panelists: Jennifer Menard, Bristol Community College; Dr. Alan Lowden; Dr. Cynthia Brown, IWNL Energy; Carlos Avila, New Bedford Ocean Cluster; Jennifer Cullen, Vineyard Wind; Jennifer Daloisio, Massachusetts Clean Energy Center; Callum Dewar, Maersk Training

Supply Chain, “Building the Offshore Wind Supply Chain in Massachusetts: Reflecting on Progress and Preparing for the future” at Shoreline Marine Terminal North, Pope’s Island, Sponsored by Massachusetts Clean Energy Center

Track includes a facility tour, panel discussion, and engaging roundtable discussion with industry leaders.

Speakers & Panelists: Bruce Carlisle, Massachusetts Clean Energy Center; Dan Kent, Vineyard Wind; Michael Quinn, Quinn Fisheries & Shoreline Offshore; Vicki Chapman, Chapman Construction Group; Philip Hamels, Jan De Nul; Joel Whitman, Foss Offshore Wind; Matt Cadwallader, TerraSond

Innovation & Technology, “Fisheries & Offshore Wind: Advancing Science and Opportunities for Innovation” at UMass Dartmouth’s School for Marine Science & Technology

Track includes a facility tour, presentations, and panel discussion with industry leaders.

Speakers & Panelists: Kevin Stokesbury, UMass Dartmouth; Pingguo He; Steven Cadrin, UMass Dartmouth; Travis Lowery, Vineyard Wind; Tim Barrett, Owner/Operator of F/V Odessa and President of Northeast Fishing Sector 10

Port Asset Tour #1: 3:30-4:15 p.m. and Port Asset Tour #2: 4:15-5:30 p.m. at Cuttyhunk Ferry, 66B State Pier, New Bedford(rotating tours)
Speakers: Gordon Carr, New Bedford Port Authority; Andrew Saunders, New Bedford Foss Marine Terminal; Tim Griffin, Massachusetts Clean Energy Center

Free time: 3:30-5:30 p.m. We encourage you to explore historic, downtown New Bedford during your free time. We recommend a visit to one of the following locations, which are in walking distance to the waterfront.

Cocktail Reception: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at The Black Whale

After-Hours: 8:00 p.m. Not ready to call it a night? These great spots are in walking distance to The Black Whale:

- Rose Alley Ale House (Food and large variety of brews and spirits)
- Cork Wine & Tapas (Creative cuisine, tapas, spirits)
- Moby Dick Brewing Company (Food and brews on tap)
- Cultivator Shoals (Food and craft cocktails)
- Port Royal (Bar & cigar lounge)

Friday, October 6th

Networking Breakfast: 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. at the New Bedford Whaling Museum, Harbor View Gallery

Speaking Program I: 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. at the New Bedford Whaling Museum, Cook Memorial Theater

Vineyard Wind 1- Electrical Service Platform
Anthony Janeczek, Semco Maritime Operations Manager

Fireside Chat
Andrew Saunders, New Bedford Foss Marine Terminal; Gordon Carr, New Bedford Port Authority

From Chemistry to Offshore Wind
Megan Eddings, NewWave Chief Strategy Officer

Break: 11:00 – 11:15 a.m.

Speaking Program II: 11:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. at the New Bedford Whaling Museum, Cook Memorial Theater

From Catch to Current: Transforming New Bedford Fishing Vessels into a Renewable Energy Pioneer
Ed Washburn, Coast Line Transfers Managing Director/Partner

Fireside Chat: Vineyard Wind & Chapman Construction Group
Dan Kent, Vineyard Wind Labor Relations Manager; Vicky Chapman, Chapman Construction Group President

Break: 12:15 – 1:15 p.m.

Lunch, Self-Guided Museum Tours, Offshore Wind Industry Videos in Cook Memorial Theater

Thank you to our 2023 sponsors

Happy Holidays from the NBOC!

by Jennifer Downing | Dec 22, 2023 | Blog

Dear NBOC Members, Partners, and Friends,

2023 was an amazing year and we want to take a moment during the holidays to express our heartfelt gratitude for your support as we continue our work to drive growth and innovation across our four pillars: Aquaculture, Commercial Fishing, Innovation & Technology, and Offshore Renewable Energy. Together, we’ve achieved milestones that have set the stage for an even brighter future. Here are a few highlights from 2023 that bring us joy and excitement for the work ahead.

At the center of the most vibrant clusters is a diverse and insightful network of engaged businesses. This year, our membership grew to 17 companies. We also launched a Fisheries Advisory Committee to inform our strategy and serve as a deliberative platform for cross industry coordination. A big thanks to Quinn Fisheries, Eastern Fisheries, BASE Seafood Auction, Norpel, Seatrade International, Red’s Best, Cynthia C. Charters, New England Marine, and Drake Lobster for their valuable engagement.

Collaboration lies at the heart of the NBOC. This year we forged new partnerships in our local community and beyond that are opening doors to new initiatives and investments that will position New Bedford and the region to be a leading ocean economy. For example, the NBOC is one of several Consortium partners leading the Southeastern New England Ocean Tech Hub, an unprecedented collaboration between Rhode Island and Southeastern, MA recognized by the U.S. Economic Development Administration. We are excited about the potential of this cross-border initiative to significantly advance ocean technology.

We continued to raise the profile of our region on global stages. In 2023, we participated in offshore wind industry trade missions to Denmark, Norway, and Northeast England. These trips continue to connect our maritime businesses to the world and pave the way for local industry growth.

We hosted our first major conference in 2023! The NBOC’s New Bedford Offshore Wind Conference brought industry leaders from all over the world to our community to discuss the latest trends, advancements, and opportunities in offshore wind. The overwhelming positive response from attendees underscored the importance of such forums in advancing our collective goals. If you missed it, this video provides a great recap. Stay tuned for details about our second-annual conference in fall 2024!

We were also fortunate to expand our team in 2023. Carlos E. Avila joined us as our Business Development Manager to expand membership and engagement offerings. Gabriella Brianna Kearns, started as an intern and is soon increasing her time with us as our Outreach & Events Assistant.

Did you see we have a new look?! We rolled out a new logo this year as part of a comprehensive Marketing and Communications Plan.
Well, that’s a wrap! Thanks again for being a part of our growing ocean cluster. We wish you a happy and healthy holiday season. See you in 2024!

With hope & cheer,
Jennifer Downing
Executive Director