The MABIT programme is a regionally driven, industry-focused R&D initiative dedicated to advancing marine biotechnology across Northern Norway. It plays a crucial role in creating value from marine resources while strengthening the region’s research, industrial activity, and the competence needed to power sustainable innovation.(mabit.no)

Key Objectives and Impact

1. MABIT supports business-relevant R&D, particularly in areas such as marine bioprospecting, aquaculture and fish health products, and creating high-value applications from marine by-products—such as functional food ingredients, pharmaceuticals, and nutritionals.
2. In line with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, Northern Norway’s regional strategies, and national bioeconomy and ocean policies, MABIT both promotes and facilitates industrial innovation and skills development in marine biotechnology.
3. The programme is known for its agility and regional relevance, combining public backing from Nordland, Troms and Finnmark County, and Sparebanken Nord-Norge’s “Samfunnsløftet”, with strong private co-funding that consistently ranges between 40–50%.

Why It Matters

MABIT provides crucial support at a critical phase of innovation—bridging the gap between academic discovery and commercialization. It offers funding for early-stage and validation projects, trainee positions, pilot production, networking, seminars, and verifications necessary to elevate biotech from idea to market.

MABIT typically opens calls for proposals 1–2 times per year, depending on available funding. To stay up to date on upcoming calls and deadlines, interested companies and research teams should subscribe to the MABIT newsletter or regularly check their website. (mabit.no)

In Summary

MABIT stands as a vital instrument for regional marine biotech innovation—enabling Northern Norway to turn its abundant marine biomass and strong research ecosystems into globally competitive solutions. Through MABIT, Biotech North members and partners gain access to catalytic support, pivotal networks, and stepping stones toward industrial impact and sustainable bioeconomic growth.