On 22–23 October 2025, the Danish city of Vordingborg became a hub of maritime innovation as partners from across the South Baltic region gathered for a Synergy Meeting uniting three flagship Interreg South Baltic projects — INCONE60 Green, DigiTechPort2030, and PortSHAZ.
The event, organized by INCONE60 Green, served as a joint platform to exchange knowledge and strengthen cooperation between initiatives that share one goal: enabling the digital and green transformation of small and medium-sized ports. For the DigiTechPort2030 partnership, the meeting was an opportunity to highlight progress on smart port systems and contribute to discussions shaping the future of maritime digitalization.
Day 1 – Offshore Wind and Local Synergies
The first day began with a study visit to Klintholm Harbour, where participants explored the EnBW Offshore Operations & Maintenance base. The visit showcased innovative vessel technologies that enhance safety and efficiency during offshore wind operations — a reminder of how digital tools and sustainable design go hand-in-hand in modern port infrastructure.
Local dialogue played a central role: a discussion with residents and business representatives underscored the importance of openness and community involvement in port development. Later at Johanneberg Conference Center, presentations by EnBW, Business Vordingborg, and Blue Water Shipping explored how data-driven planning and operational transparency can balance industrial growth with social acceptance — a theme very much aligned with DigiTechPort2030’s vision of an integrated, smart port ecosystem.
Day 2 – Digitalization, Safety, and Collaboration
Dr. Laima Gerlitz and Alina Buddensiek from Hochschule Wismar, University of Applied Sciences represented the DigiTechPort2030 partnership as a leaders of the project, joined by our project partner from Port of Elbląg – Arkadiusz Zgliński contributing to discussions on the development of smart port ecosystems and future digital strategies.
Presentations from project partners Blekinge Institute of Technology – represented by Lawrence Henesey, and Maritime University of Szczecin – Marcin Przywarty were also featured on screen, showcasing innovative approaches and research within the DigiTechPort2030 framework.
Sessions highlighted live demonstrations of automated port administration systems by Inero Software and the Port of Vordingborg, alongside presentations by Innovation Norway, Norseye, Squarehead, and Aker Solutions on real-time monitoring, open-source intelligence, and drone detection technologies. Together, these insights demonstrated how digital innovation can significantly enhance safety, efficiency, and environmental performance in small ports.
Study Visit – The Port of Vordingborg in Transformation
A guided tour of the Port of Vordingborg offered a tangible example of the region’s transformation. Participants witnessed large-scale land reclamation and circular economy initiatives, where recycled materials are being used to create new industrial areas under strict environmental management. With new infrastructure, including an upcoming bridge and improved connectivity ahead of the Fehmarn Belt link, the port stands as a model for how smaller ports can lead in smart and sustainable development.
Shared Vision, Stronger Impact
For DigiTechPort2030, the Vordingborg Synergy Meeting was more than an event — it was a demonstration of cross-project collaboration in action. Together with INCONE60 Green and PortSHAZ, partners are building a coherent framework for the next generation of small ports — digital, resilient, and green.
The joint work will continue into 2026, ensuring that digital excellence, environmental responsibility, and regional cooperation remain at the heart of the South Baltic’s maritime future.