Next Innovation Road (NIR) 2026
03/07/2026
On 16 June 2026, M.A.R.E. TC FVG – Maritime, Aerospace, Renewable Energies Technology Cluster FVG organised the second Next Innovation Road 2026 event, dedicated to the theme Digitalization between Sea and Space.
The event brought together experts, companies, researchers and innovation stakeholders to explore how digital technologies can accelerate innovation across the maritime and aerospace sectors, while also contributing to the transition towards zero-emission transport.
As part of the programme, TransH2 workshops focused on the role of digital technologies in supporting hydrogen-based solutions and the decarbonisation of maritime transport in the Adriatic region. Participants discussed how digital tools can enhance the design, operation and management of future zero-emission vessels and supporting infrastructure.
Throughout the event, speakers highlighted the importance of combining digital innovation, data-driven solutions and cross-sector cooperation to address the challenges of sustainable maritime mobility.
The discussions resulted in four thematic areas that will guide future activities of the innovation community:
- Data-Driven Vessel Design – next-generation vessel design supported by operational data, digital twins and artificial intelligence.
- Smart Vessel Operations – intelligent vessel management through advanced sensors, predictive maintenance and cybersecurity.
- Smart Sea Monitoring and Surveillance – integrated maritime and aerospace solutions for monitoring, surveillance, port operations and environmental protection.
- Smart Satellite Constellation – resilient satellite-based infrastructures enabling connectivity and efficient data exchange.
The event demonstrated how digitalisation and hydrogen technologies can complement one another in supporting the green transition of the maritime sector. Through cooperation between industry, research organisations and public stakeholders, TransH2 continues to promote innovative solutions for a more sustainable and climate-neutral Adriatic transport system.
