Region’s maritime sector takes centre stage at ‘Dragon’s Den’ style event

North Devon’s growing maritime sector has taken centre stage at a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style event in Bideford to showcase the region’s potential and innovation.

The Royal Hotel was the location for the North Devon Angels Maritime and Green Energy Pitch Event, which brought together entrepreneurs, investors, industry leaders and public sector partners.

It was hosted by Torridge District Council, North Devon Council, North Devon+ and Tech South West, with more than 50 delegates to ready to promote emerging maritime technologies, green energy solutions and investment-ready innovations.

Above: Attendees at the North Devon Angels Maritime and Green Energy Pitch Event hear about some of the exciting innovations and industries growing in Torridge and North Devon. Credit: TDC 

As part of the growing North Devon Angels investment initiative, it provided a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style platform for three ambitious businesses to present their work to a panel of potential backers as well as a room of investors and potential strategic partners.

Following a selection process the three pitches were given by Lyte Drive (clean propulsion), Triton (tidal) and C-MAT Technologies (carbon capture).

Present were more than 40 businesses and eight investors, along with universities, the British Business Bank, Innovate UK Business Growth and Maritime UK SW.

Organisers said the event demonstrated the growing strength of the maritime industry in the South West and the increasing role Appledore and North Devon are playing.

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A group of delegates were also given a tour of the Appledore Shipyard, owned by Navantia UK, one of the region’s most iconic maritime assets and key employers.

They were also encouraged to visit the site of the Appledore Maritime Innovation Centre (AMIC), a research and development facility for next generation sustainable maritime initiatives scheduled to open later this year.

Sean Kearney from Torridge District Council and co-chief executive of North Devon+, said: “The pitch event marks another milestone in the region’s collective mission to support innovative, growing companies, attract investment, and strengthen the maritime and green energy sectors. 

“This event showcased not only the extraordinary entrepreneurial talent in our region, but also the strength of our partnerships and our commitment to driving green, resilient and future-focused growth for Northern Devon.”

Mark Burnett, chair of the North Devon and Torridge Maritime Network, also commented, saying: “The energy and ambition on display at today’s Maritime and Green Energy Pitch Event demonstrates exactly why Northern Devon is emerging as a leader in sustainable marine innovation.

“It was inspiring to see entrepreneurs, investors and industry specialists come together with a shared purpose - to shape a greener, more resilient maritime future.

“The collaboration between councils, industry, and Tech South West is creating real momentum and events like this show just how much opportunity lies ahead for our region.”

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