Aquaculture innovation ‘graduates’ from Ireland’s seafood development agency, Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), have been named in a “Hot 100 Startups” list by the Business Post newspaper. Three companies that participated in BIM’s Innovation Studio programme were recognized. NanobOx, a University College Dublin spin-off founded in 2022, has developed technology to produce nanobubbles using less electricity.
The company targets the aquaculture and agriculture sectors, aiming to serve European fish farms and U.S. shrimp farms. Konree Innovation, based in Co. Galway, is developing an AI-based system for detecting sea lice in salmon pens.
Founded in 2021, the company participated in the BIM Aquatech Innovation Studio in 2022. Co-founder Margaret Rae praised the studio for pushing the business and bringing together the aquaculture supply chain. Harley & Marley, a Co.
Aquaculture startups recognized for innovation
Dublin pet food company, uses Irish-sourced fish in its products for cats and dogs. The company projects revenues of €600,000 by the end of the year and €1.4 million by 2025, driven by growing interest in Irish fish products.
The seventh Innovation Studio programme, open to Irish and EU aquaculture technology projects, will take place from September 30 to October 11 in Cork City. Ireland was hailed as the “perfect location” for start-ups at the Business Post/Enterprise Ireland’s Hot 100 Start Ups event. Business Minister Emer Higgins emphasized the government’s role in supporting new companies.
The Hot 100 Start Ups list features companies from various regions, with Dublin leading at 39 entries, followed by Cork and Galway. Notable entries include Affinity EV, Positive Carbon, and Sisterly. Business Post editor Daniel McConnell celebrated the energy, creativity, and resilience of Ireland’s emerging businesses.
Kevin Sherry of Enterprise Ireland expressed pride in the country’s promising entrepreneurs and their contribution to various sectors. The Hot 100 Start-Ups for 2024 spotlighted innovative and export-focused businesses driving Ireland’s economic growth and shaping future industries.
