Online registration has opened for MariMatch, the unique brokerage event that gives visitors to Europort 2013 the opportunity to prearrange meetings with potential business partners in an informal setting.

Europort 2013, the main event for pioneers in maritime technology, takes place at the world-renowned Ahoy Rotterdam exhibition and conference centre, November 5-8. MariMatch, whose networking objectives fit closely into Europort’s commitment to connecting the maritime world, takes place on Wednesday, November 6. Each ‘matchmaking’ meeting lasts half an hour – ample time to form those critical ‘first impressions’.

Online registration will allow visitors to explore a catalogue of prospective like-minded business partners from around the world with an interest in research and technical innovation. MariMatch is open for all companies from the maritime and offshore sectors looking for partners, from sea shipping to offshore, from dredging to fishery, from inland navigation to navy and superyachts.
After registering on the website (see link: http://www.b2match.eu/marimatch2013) with a company and technology profile, the user can browse the online MariMatch catalogue, identify ‘hot’ prospects and request a meeting.
“MariMatch offers the chance for companies to put a structure in place so that their networking targets are achievable,” says Niklaas van Hylckama Vlieg, MariMatch organizer. “This is an opportunity for companies of all sizes to make the most of Europort 2013, especially companies that seek technological partnerships.”
Freek Smulders, Business Developer at MasterShip and participant in former brokerage events, says: “MariMatch is a very efficient way to expand my network. Due to the website and the option to invite partners I can be more proactive and make myself ‘findable’. This added value has persuaded me to join MariMatch again this year.”
MariMatch is organised by Enterprise Europe Network  Netherland with the support of its European partners in cooperation with Ahoy Rotterdam. EEN is a European Commission initiative that aims to grow business through technological cooperation. With 600 member organisations in 40 countries, the network offers a gateway to new markets, new technologies, and new funding. Europort 2013 visitors can call on MariMatch staff on-site to support their arrangements. “The whole exhibition programme is geared towards gaining insight into industry innovation, but Europort 2013 is also about adding value for visitors,” says Raymond Siliakus, Europort 2013 Exhibition Manager. “MariMatch taps directly into our role as the hub for new business opportunities in the maritime and offshore sector.”