Summary of the One-Day Workshop: "Black Sea Innovation Hub: Science, Innovation, Maritime Industries and Digital Connectivity" (Project BLUE GATES BSB 00189)

The workshop took place on August 12, 2025, at the Expo Center “Flora”, Seaside Park, Burgas.

The event was divided into two main parts, both focusing on Blue Economy topics for the Black Sea region:

Part One: Fisheries and Aquaculture, Blue Economy Monitoring, Research and Scientific Studies (09:45 – 12:30)

This section featured presentations from various academic and governmental institutions, including:
- Burgas Free University (BFU): Topics covered the Sustainable Blue Economy Partnership (SBEP) and the Digital Twin of the Black Sea (DOORS project).
- Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov Burgas State University: Discussions were held on the application of algae for reducing water pollution and Scientific Solutions for a Resilient and Sustainable Black Sea Region.
- Bulgarian Academy of Sciences Institute of Oceanology: The focus was on an Ecosystem-Based Approach for Sustainable Fisheries Management.
- Executive Agency for Fisheries and Aquaculture (EAFA): Presentations included Fisheries and Aquaculture in Bulgaria and scientific research on fish stocks in the Black Sea.
A Lunch Break was held from 12:30 to 13:30.

This part focused on industry and technology, with speakers from:
- Municipal Enterprise „Tourism“, Burgas Municipality: A topic on Pocket Ports, Maritime Transport and Tourism was presented.
- Marine Cluster Bulgaria: The discussion centered on Connectivity and Sustainable Cooperation in the Black Sea Region.
- Bering Yachts Bulgaria Ltd. and „BMF Port Burgas“ JSC: Presentations covered innovation, sustainability, and transformation of shipbuilding, infrastructure, and skills for Blue Growth.
- Odessa National Maritime University (ONMU) (online): Presentations were given on a Sustainable and Secure Black Sea, Threat Protection Technologies, and Innovative Shipbuilding Solutions.

The workshop concluded with a Closing speech at 16:10. Coffee and Networking breaks occurred at 11:05–11:25 and 14:50–15:10.