Shaping Europe’s Maritime Research Agenda
ECMAR is the European voice of applied maritime research, connecting leading organisations to drive innovation, sustainability and strategic impact.
Bridging science, industry and policy to accelerate Europe’s maritime transition.
A shared vision
Building a Common Direction for Maritime Innovation
ECMAR defines a common European Strategic Research Agenda (SRA) aligning applied research with policy priorities such as decarbonisation, digitalisation and resilience.
By coordinating efforts across countries and organisations, ECMAR ensures a coherent and impactful innovation strategy.
Decarbonisation
Reducing emissions is a core priority for the maritime sector. ECMAR supports research into alternative fuels, energy efficiency and new propulsion systems to accelerate the transition towards climate neutrality.
Digitalisation
The integration of digital technologies is reshaping maritime operations. From data-driven optimisation to autonomous systems, ECMAR promotes innovation that enhances safety, performance and decision-making. Resilience & Sovereignty
Strengthening Europe’s technological independence is essential. ECMAR contributes to securing critical knowledge, supporting innovation ecosystems and ensuring Europe remains competitive globally.
Key Research Domains
ECMAR’s Strategic Research Agenda is structured around key domains addressing the most critical challenges and opportunities for the maritime sector.
From Vision to Impact
ECMAR’s vision is designed to support long-term transformation while delivering short- and medium-term results.
The SRA provides a structured roadmap identifying key research challenges, technology gaps and investment priorities. It is used by European institutions, industry and research organisations as a reference framework.
2030 Deployment of low-emission solutions and digital tools
2040 Scaling of integrated smart and green maritime systems
2050 Climate-neutral and fully optimised maritime ecosystem
EU Advocacy Role
The voice of applied research in Brussels
ECMAR represents applied maritime research organisations at European level. It contributes to shaping EU programmes, supports funding strategies and ensures research priorities are reflected in policy decisions.
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Research expertise
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Strategic alignment
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Position papers
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EU dialogue
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Policy impact
Driving European Maritime Excellence
ECMAR brings together leading applied research organisations across Europe to shape the future of maritime innovation and policy.
14+
countries represented
25%+
of Horizon Europe maritime projects coordinated by an ECMAR Member
24+
research organisations and institutes in the network
€15M+
leveraged EU fundings in Horizon Europe maritime R&D projects
Understanding ECMAR and Its Role in Europe
Find clear answers about our mission, activities and how to engage with our network.
ECMAR is a European network of applied research organisations focused on advancing maritime innovation, shaping research priorities and supporting EU-level collaboration.
Membership is open to research institutes, universities and organisations involved in applied maritime research seeking to collaborate at European level.
Members gain access to funding opportunities, strategic working groups, European projects, and increased visibility within the maritime research and policy ecosystem.
Contribute to Europe’s Maritime Future
Join ECMAR and actively participate in shaping research priorities and innovation strategies at European level.