Humber Group secures funding to boost maritime sector

A Humber-based maritime industry group is set to “significantly augment” its impact following a funding boost aimed at supporting coastal economies and enhancing regional expertise.

Humber Marine & Renewables has been awarded £85,000 from the Department for Transport’s almost £1 million Maritime Cluster Development Fund, one of nine clusters across the country to be allocated funding, designed to drive growth in coastal towns by fostering investment, skills training and business development.

Announcing the funding, which is being managed by Maritime UK, Mike Kane, minister for aviation, maritime and security, said: “The UK is a proud maritime nation, with our coastal communities being vital in unleashing our full potential and unlocking economic growth across the country.

“By investing in our excellent maritime clusters, we can deliver jobs, skills and training for local communities and turbocharge growth by delivering investment into the sector.”  

Matched by contributions from its supporters, the cash will help Humber Marine & Renewables strengthen its marketing efforts, attract new members and support existing ones.

Known for championing the region’s maritime and offshore wind industries, the group has been instrumental in showcasing the Humber as a hub for renewables innovation, both regionally and globally.

The organisation’s portfolio includes hosting the Offshore Wind Connections conference and the Humber Renewables Awards, cementing its reputation as a leader in the maritime sector.

Iain Butterworth, chair of Humber Marine & Renewables and director of Butterworth Marine, added: “Our roots are in the Humber’s historic maritime industry, and we have a long history in supporting its development which includes, in recent years, assisting companies to use their unique and valuable skills to diversify into offshore wind.

“This award will significantly augment our ability to provide targeted assistance to this important contributor to the region’s economy and help it shine on the world stage.

“I want to thank our members and supporters for their role in making this happen through match funding and support in kind, with special thanks going to our board member Camilla Carlbom Flinn for her invaluable work in the grant application.”

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