The World Trade Center New Orleans (WTCNO) and Innovation Norway have inked a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to bolster collaboration in maritime and clean tech sectors. This strategic partnership, announced this month, aims to strengthen ties between Louisiana and Norway, focusing on sustainable port operations, logistics innovation, and clean energy solutions.
Harrison Crabtree, executive director of the World Trade Center New Orleans, emphasized the significance of this agreement, stating, “Innovation is a global language, and Norway has long been a leader in maritime technology and clean energy. This agreement strengthens the bridge between Louisiana and Norway, creating new pathways for our companies, our ports, and our workforce. It positions both regions to lead in the Blue Economy and in the emerging industries shaping the future.”
The MOU outlines a robust framework for joint initiatives, including industry roundtables, workforce readiness exchanges, and trade missions. These efforts are designed to facilitate the exchange of commercial, regulatory, and market information, thereby supporting business development and promoting trade and investment.
Key deliverables under the agreement include:
– **Industry Roundtables (Years 1–3):** These forums will bring together maritime companies from both regions to share insights on policy, investment, and innovation.
– **Workforce Readiness Exchange (Year 2):** Virtual convenings between employers and training providers will address skills gaps in the maritime sector.
– **Trade Missions (Year 3):** Coordinated missions linked to the WorkBoat Show and Nor-Shipping will support targeted business matchmaking.
Kathrine Langjord, commercial counsellor for Innovation Norway in Houston, highlighted the importance of international cooperation in today’s unpredictable global trade landscape. She noted, “The agreement between World Trade Center New Orleans and Innovation Norway exemplifies how we can forge closer ties. We look forward to a long-term collaboration on information exchange, joint business opportunities, and mutual investments—particularly in port infrastructure, logistics, and other maritime domains.”
This partnership builds on the long-standing commercial ties between Louisiana and Norway in energy, shipping, and port operations. By expanding into clean tech, logistics innovation, and sustainable maritime solutions, the agreement aims to enhance economic growth, workforce development, and international market access for both regions.
The collaboration also engages industry, academia, and government, signaling a comprehensive approach to fostering innovation. This holistic strategy positions Louisiana and Norway as leaders in sustainable maritime practices and the Blue Economy, setting a precedent for future international partnerships in these critical sectors.