Collaboration as a mantra
Founded in 2005, the technology company develops autonomous navigation systems and maritime drones used for mapping, surveillance, inspection and security operations at sea.
The company is now experiencing its strongest growth to date and serves customers worldwide. Last year, its revenue increased from NOK 152 million to NOK 255 million.
We need to work with the best
Eirik Evjen Hovstein at Maritime Robotics has no doubt about one key part of the formula for success.
'I have three mantras: collaboration, collaboration and collaboration,' he says, adding:
‘We have always believed in finding partners. We are not aiming to win a local competition for maritime drones – we want to compete in the global market. To do that, a small company must work with the best,’ says Hovstein.
That is precisely why the Ocean Autonomy Cluster and the Nordic Defence and Security Cluster have played a key role in the company's growth and development.
'In the early stages, they were crucial in enabling collaboration, for example with Norbit, another Trondheim-based company that supplies echo sounders for our vessels,' says Hovstein.
Gaining visibility together
As chair of the defence cluster's steering group, Hovstein and Maritime Robotics have also been closely involved in developing the cluster. Visibility is crucial in the defence industry, and the clusters give the company access to the right arenas.
«When a strong cluster can open doors and give you a place on stage or access to relevant meeting places, it is extremely valuable.»
The clusters have also contributed expertise and international networks.
– There has been extensive competence building, including in security, which is essential in the defence industry. We also organise professional events and joint participation at international trade fairs. This provides access to both knowledge and markets that would otherwise be more difficult to reach.
The company has had an international focus from the outset. Europe is its main market, followed by the US and Asia. The defence and security sector is its primary focus.
Hovstein points out that the strong growth in recent years is due both to the technology maturing and to the security situation driving greater interest in autonomous maritime systems.
‘We saw this development even before the war in Ukraine, but the conflict and the use of maritime drones in the Black Sea really opened many people’s eyes to this type of technology.’
In addition to the role the clusters have played in their development, he highlights our contribution.
«Innovation Norway's schemes have been a good fit for us and played an important role. They have supported our international expansion, market research, trade fair participation and product development. »