Seafood Next – knowledge development for sustainable growth
Seafood Next is a competency program with a broad focus in the seafood industry. Over the course of one year and four modules, participants gain broad insight into the entire value chain — from research and technology development to markets, fish health, feed ingredients and full utilization of marine resources.
– To succeed with sustainable growth in the seafood industry, it is crucial that those working in all sectors of the industry have comprehensive knowledge and a strong network. Seafood Next provides participants with both updated insight and valuable contacts for further careers and collaboration, says Fride Iversen, senior project manager for competence and talent attraction at NCE Seafood and responsible for Seafood Next.
The embassy opened its doors
It has gradually become a tradition for Seafood Next to visit Iceland, and the Norwegian Embassy in Iceland has noticed how the program brings together key players from the Norwegian seafood industry year after year. This year, the Embassy therefore wanted to invite the group in and facilitate networking.
For the reception, the embassy had gathered representatives from the Icelandic Food Safety Authority, the Ministry of Fisheries and the start-up company Green Fish.
The Embassy works to promote awareness of a sustainable seafood industry in collaboration with Icelandic and Norwegian stakeholders. Supporting the visit from NCE Seafood naturally falls into this. It is a pleasure to facilitate better contact between Norwegian and Icelandic stakeholders in this area, says Ambassador Cecilie Willoch.
Learning from Iceland's innovative power
Iceland has established itself as a pioneer in 100 percent utilization of raw materials and the development of new value chains. For the participants in Seafood Next, the visit provides valuable insight into how new technology, circular economy and innovation can create new growth.
Building bridges between industry, nationally and internationally
The fact that entrepreneurs, investors and established businesses meet through Seafood Next is part of what makes the program unique.
Recognition of the role of the cluster
The Icelandic embassy's involvement is seen as a clear recognition of the work NCE Seafood does with competence development and relationship building across borders.
– The fact that the embassy is now actively inviting us in when we visit Iceland shows that our work is being noticed. This is an important contribution from us as a cluster: Connecting people, building knowledge and creating networks that lift the entire seafood industry, says Fride Iversen.
