It can be said that this is a kind of umbrella for many small projects that are carried out within Matís in collaboration with companies and individuals around the country and aim to increase the value of seafood.
"The Fisheries Project Fund enabled us to give new and small projects a go without having to seek support for each of them through applications to larger funds," says Páll Gunnar Pálsson, project manager, about the creation of the Marine Products Product Development Center.
"It is often the case that we here at Matís are in contact with individuals or companies who need help to implement an idea or help to complete projects. They are often of such a nature that they are too small or have not reached the point where they match the emphasis of the competition funds due to the grant allocations. We felt that there was a great need for a new channel for these projects, as we at Matís have a lot to offer with our expertise and facilities. This can range from research or analysis to consulting on housing, technical solutions, product development or marketing. Basically, these are small projects, limited in time, but they can certainly expand in the future and then move to the level that suits the support system of the competition funds, "says Páll Gunnar.
Páll Gunnar says that the projects that the Product Development Center for Seafood is working on are very diverse. Some of them have already returned products to the market and are even the basis for the establishment of small companies.
"Examples are the kelp skyr that will soon go into production, UNU skin products that have been placed on the market and are based on the use of bioactive substances from seaweed, and Gunna's Gunna á Rif, which received assistance with product development and quality control. This year, the projects are well into their forties and are working on improved utilization of grayling, seaweed supplements, fresh liver oil, live lobster packaging, seafood information for marketing and sales companies to name a few.
The location of Matís' offices across the country has made it easier for entrepreneurs to seek cooperation and support. We welcome everyone and strive to strengthen the project ideas with our expertise so that the result will be increased value of seafood. "
For further information Páll Gunnar.