EIT Water West

Overview‍

EIT Water West strengthens water, marine and maritime innovation across Belgium, France, Luxemburg and the Netherlands. Based in a region shaped by major port and coastal cities, our regional hub focuses on water circularity, multi-use innovation and sustainable solutions for highly urbanised and industrialised environments.

In 2026, the EIT Water West host is Blue Cluster Belgium, a strategic maritime industry cluster driving collaborative innovation in offshore energy, blue biotech, blue tourism, coastal protection, pollution mitigation, smart shipping and maritime security. Through its extensive cross-border network, Blue Cluster connects research, industry, ports and public authorities to accelerate circular and blue economy solutions.

Our geographic scope‍

Belgium, France, Luxemburg, Netherlands

Our regional priorities

• Water circularity and management of legacy pollutants

• Coastal protection and nature-based solutions

• Sustainable blue economy, including aquaculture and blue biotech

• Clean shipping and smart maritime innovation

• Offshore renewable energy and multi-use platforms

Our regional strengths and assets

• Strong port and coastal city ecosystems

• Leadership in water circularity and reuse

• Multi-use innovation in offshore and coastal zones

• Strong SME and industry engagement

• Experience linking societal and environmental challenges

• High-quality research and maritime innovation networks

Our members

• Belgium: Aquafin, Blue Cluster, Jan De Nul, North Sea Port, University of Antwerp

• Netherlands: Berenschot, Deltares, Floating Farm, Gushikama Business Consult, UN IHE Delft, University of Amsterdam, Wageningen University, World Waternet

• France: ALW FI, INRAE, Mines Paris – PSL, TVT Innovation – System Factory

• Other members: European Renewable Energies Federation (EREF), European Water Association

Contact: rhwest@eitwater.eu

EU funding: This activity is funded by the European Union.

‍