Belfast green ferry company Artemis Technologies has announced a multi-million dollar deal with a yacht maker in Seattle.
Artemis, a pioneer in zero-emission maritime technology, has signed a memorandum of understanding to seal the deal with Delta Marine, helping its advances in clean maritime transport.
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald welcomed the latest international success for the company during her St Patrick’s-themed visit to the US.
Delta Marine, which builds luxury yachts, is based in Seattle in Washington State, home to the US’s largest fleet of passenger ferries.
Artemis’s deal with the firm follows an earlier announcement to supply 20 of its hydrofoil vessels to transport company Urbanlink in Miami.
The minister watched Artemis’ electric vessel in action during a visit to its New York base at Brooklyn Navy Yard.
Ms Archibald said: “It is fantastic to see Artemis Technologies expanding in the US and securing high-profile partnerships that will accelerate the transition to sustainable maritime transport.
“The north is home to world-leading innovation in clean tech, and Artemis Technologies’ revolutionary hydrofoil technology represents a significant opportunity to decarbonise maritime transport.”
David Tyler, the co-founder of Artemis Technologies, said economic development agency Invest NI had helped the company’s expansion across the Atlantic.
“The US is a crucial market for our business, and this partnership with Delta Marine is a significant milestone in our global growth strategy,” he added.
“Invest NI has been a key partner in helping to facilitate our expansion by providing support to grow our exports and through their expert representation in the Belfast Maritime Consortium.
“We are proud to represent Northern Ireland on an international stage and look forward to further strengthening our presence in the US.”
Artemis Technologies opened its office in Brooklyn last year.
Kieran Donoghue, CEO of Invest NI, said: “Artemis Technologies is an innovation-driven enterprise and a shining example of the world-class innovation emerging from Northern Ireland.
“Its expansion into the US market will drive economic growth and strengthen our reputation as a leader in green maritime technology.
“Through initiatives like the Northern Ireland Maritime and Offshore Network and support from our teams in the US, Invest NI is helping companies like Artemis Technologies secure major contracts, scale internationally and attract investment that creates high-value jobs at home.”
Ms Archibald said her visit to the US has been focused on “deepening economic ties, promoting trade, investment and tourism opportunities, and supporting the north’s businesses as they scale internationally”.
“The partnerships and connections forged this week will help drive long-term economic development, create high-value jobs and position the north as a leader in the industries of the future,” she added.
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