Port of San Diego Becomes First Pacific Rim Port to Join the Port Innovators Network
Contact: Gabriella Rodriguez, 619.904.2137, grodriguez@portofsandiego.org
The Port of San Diego is excited to announce its membership in the Port Innovators Network (PIN), a prestigious coalition of forward-thinking ports committed to advancing sustainable practices, innovation, and operational excellence in the maritime industry. The PIN facilitates the growth of new technologies including blue technology, climate resilience, and community engagement in port environments on a global scale. This partnership will be mutually beneficial, fostering collaboration and driving impactful innovations to the ports and logistics sector across borders.
“As a port of firsts, the Port of San Diego is honored to be the first port in the United States and the Pacific Rim to be a part of the Port Innovators Network (PIN), a global community that is pushing the boundaries of the Blue Economy through innovation hubs,” said Chair Danielle Moore, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “The Port’s Blue Economy achievements are anchored in partnerships and collaborations and we look forward to working with all members of the PIN, including the network’s founders – Hamburg Port Authority, Port Authority of Valencia, and our PIN sponsor, the Port of Halifax.”
“The Port of San Diego’s partnership with the Port Innovators Network is rooted in the desire to expand on the plethora of opportunities within the Blue Economy, especially through our Blue Economy Incubator and with our network of global partners,” said Jason Giffen, Vice President of Planning and Environment at the Port of San Diego. “When it comes to innovation, we are excited to bring our knowledge and applied expertise to the PIN which includes ports from all over the world with a common interest of developing top tier ocean-based solutions.”
"We heartily welcome Port of San Diego to the Port Innovators Network (PIN)," said Antonio Torregrosa, Managing Director at Fundación Valenciaport. “This expansion into the Pacific coast region strengthens our global alliance and reinforces our commitment to maritime innovation and blue economy. By joining forces with partners across continents, we are accelerating the adoption of cutting-edge technologies that will shape the future of sustainable ports worldwide."
“On behalf of the Network, we’d like to welcome the Port of San Diego’s Blue Economy Incubator," said Michael Davie, Vice President of Operations, Sustainability and Technology at the Halifax Port Authority. "International partner ports in PIN will benefit from the Blue Economy Incubator’s deep expertise developing and deploying sustainable marine solutions. The PIN partnership shares port learnings and experiences across continents. With the first American port joining the Network, we’ll be exchanging insights to improve the marine sector and global supply chain.”
The Port’s partnership with PIN and its members aligns with the Port’s strategic vision to become a leader in blue technology and sustainability initiatives that benefit not only the region but the broader global ocean economy and community. The Port is strategically positioned to act as a catalyst for the Blue Economy by fostering sustainable ocean-based innovation, driving Port-related businesses, removing barriers to entrepreneurs, and providing funding, key assets, support services including entitlement and permitting assistance, and pilot project facilitation with applied operational and scientific expertise. In 2016, the Port of San Diego established the Blue Economy Incubator to assist in the creation, early development, and initial scaling of new Blue Economy business ventures along San Diego Bay.
Our Port-led Blue Economy Incubator is the only one of its kind in the world. Since its creation, the program has launched 10 innovative projects and reinvested in one of the companies. Through expanding Blue Economy partnerships like with the PIN, the Port is looking forward to growing global innovation opportunities in coastal resiliency, environmental remediation, maritime decarbonization, nature-based solutions, ocean data, and shellfish and seaweed aquaculture.
For more information about the Port of San Diego’s Blue Economy Incubator and its list of local, national and international partnerships, visit portofsandiego.org/BlueEconomy.
About THE Port of San Diego
The Port of San Diego serves the people of California as a specially created district, balancing multiple uses on 34 miles along San Diego Bay spanning five cities. Collecting no tax dollars, the Port manages a diverse portfolio to generate revenues that support vital public services and amenities.
The Port champions Maritime, Waterfront Development, Public Safety, Experiences and Environment, all focused on enriching the relationship people and businesses have with our dynamic waterfront. From cargo and cruise terminals to hotels and restaurants, from marinas to museums, from 22 public parks to countless events, the Port contributes to the region’s prosperity and remarkable way of life on a daily basis.