The mission of the Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ) is to strengthen science-based knowledge about our coasts, seas and the ocean and share it as widely as possible. Human activities have an impact on the ocean, marine life and coasts. Just think about climate change, pollution and biodiversity loss. But at the same time we need our ocean and seas as it gives us multiple ecosystem services: Energy, biological and non-biological resources, capturing of carbon, recreational opportunities,... 

Marine research can help in detecting changes, analysing problems and proposing solutions. To this end, the VLIZ uses new technologies, such as robotics, and focuses on innovation and valorisation. Research areas include the ocean and seas, coasts and tidal systems as well as all areas where Flemish marine scientists are or were active.

VLIZ actively invests in the valorisation of marine research towards companies and innovation actors within the Blue Economy. In this way, the institution aims to enrich the innovation capacity and knowledge economy in Flanders. In recent years, VLIZ has developed a diverse portfolio of dozens of innovation projects together with companies. These range from strategic basic research for the Blue Economy, innovation projects in which VLIZ acts as a research partner in collaboration with companies to European projects together with Flemish companies. In addition, the institute invests in bilateral contacts with companies. In this regard, the most optimal collaboration modality is sought, depending on the question at hand.