Marine Science and Data Analytics are two of the target industries in St. Petersburg (learn more at Grow Smarter). These areas have always been intertwined but they are converging in deeper and unique ways under the NEW Blue Economy. The NEW Blue Economy is “a knowledge-based economy, looking to the sea not just for extraction of material goods, but for data and information to address societal challenges and inspire their solutions” according to Dr. Richard Spinrad (EOS.org). The traditional blue economy developed around tangible resources (e.g., food and fossil fuel production) and critical services (e.g., shipping, coastal tourism). Data was often nothing more than a supporting function.
In the future, the role of data, information, and related disruptive technologies will be critical. The ability to acquire, transform and interpret data will drive policies, sustainability efforts, new business ventures, and more. The Innovation District is fortunate to have academics, government and private industry partners already embracing the NEW Blue Economy. The potential is tremendous! Stay tuned for future updates on how the District and its partners are making strategic plans to further the NEW Blue Economy
From the SPID June 2022 Newsletter
We will host another Trolley Tour and Happy Hour on Friday, June 13th. You will board a trolley with other Innovation District partners and learn about the history and future plans for the area. This tour will feature stops at Albert Whitted Airport, Florida Institute of Oceanography, and The Dalí Museum. The tour will conclude back at the Hub with a networking happy hour.
The St. Petersburg Ocean Team is the premier consortium for marine science and related research, education and entrepreneurship in the Southeast. The Team is comprised of over 20 complementary firms, government entities, and institutions that are located near one another, many in the St. Pete Innovation District, that draw advantages from their proximity as well as the similarities between their workforce and vendor needs.
April’s Tech X-change was a hit, thanks to an engaging presentation from Digital Twin Marine. Shoutout to all the Eckerd College students who joined us! The audience was curious and interactive, asking great questions and eager to try out the virtual reality headset.