9 June 2026
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has formally launched the UK Maritime Innovation Hub — a dedicated service providing coordinated access to regulatory engagement for organisations developing innovative maritime technologies.
Whether your work involves decarbonisation, digital systems, alternative fuels or prototype vessel trials, the Hub offers a single entry point into MCA regulatory expertise, structured support and clearer pathways to approval.
What is the UK Maritime Innovation Hub?
The Hub is hosted by the MCA and draws on expertise from across the agency. It is designed to bridge the gap between innovation and regulation, providing early, structured engagement to organisations at any stage of technology development — from initial concept through to prototype vessel trials and regulatory submission.
Enquiries are welcomed from innovators, technology developers, researchers and industry partners based in the UK, Crown Dependencies and UK Overseas Territories.
Decarbonisation and Alternative Fuels
For British Marine members working on vessel decarbonisation, the Hub offers direct support to navigate the regulatory landscape around alternative fuels including hydrogen, ammonia, methanol and advanced biofuels, as well as zero- and near-zero greenhouse gas emissions technologies.
Support includes:
- Regulatory navigation and a single entry point to guidance on which standards apply to a specific decarbonisation concept or fuel choice
- Systems integration and assurance considerations — including propulsion, power management and human element impacts
- Trial and demonstration enablement — structuring test plans, KPIs and data capture for decision-grade evidence
- Safety cases and regulatory readiness support
- Signposting to major UK funding programmes including UK SHORE's Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC) and the Zero Emission Vessels and Infrastructure (ZEVI) fund
Digital Systems and Digitalisation Technologies
The Hub also supports the adoption of digital technologies across maritime operations — including digital twins, data platforms, advanced analytics, connected systems, and other digitalisation technologies — helping organisations understand regulatory considerations and navigate assurance pathways safely.
Prototype Vessel Trials
Designated trial areas are available for prototype vessels using innovative technology. The Hub can facilitate access to trial and sandbox environments and provides guidance on test design, evidence generation and alignment with MCA expectations — including frameworks such as MGN 664, MGN 550 and Workboat Code Edition 3.
Efficiency Technologies
The Hub supports evidence-led innovation in efficiency technologies — helping organisations improve vessel performance and reduce operating costs through structured regulatory engagement and safe, proportionate trialling activity.
How to Engage
Projects typically begin with initial contact, triage and early guidance. Engagement can then become more iterative and tailored, including coordination with MCA specialists, support in preparing regulatory submissions, and facilitating access to trial environments.
To contact the UK Maritime Innovation Hub, complete the online contact form on GOV.UK or email
innovation@mcga.gov.uk for further information.
Full details on the Hub's priority themes and support process are available at:
www.gov.uk/government/collections/uk-maritime-innovation-hub