London: The PartnerShip is a global initiative to create awareness of the shipping industry by building, educating and fundraising via a virtual online ship.
The concept allows the major merchant ship types to be combined as a unique generic design providing a platform to showcase the vast array of equipment, systems and services that allow today’s merchant fleet to operate.
During the two-year project cycle, The PartnerShip will continuously develop providing a practical online tool for educating the next generation on what a ship is, what equipment and components are required, and what services are available to enable the ship to operate effectively.
The PartnerShip is seeking to raise £1m to support a variety of good causes. Companies have the opportunity to become the exclusive provider of an item of equipment or a service for the ‘virtual ship’ and all benefactors can choose which charities benefit from their generosity.
Mike Porter, director of Podium 4 and founder of The PartnerShip, tells Maritime CEO: “We certainly don’t underestimate the task ahead but believe that by focussing on the key element – the ship, collectively involving all stakeholders in the operation of the ship, and offering public and not just industry related funding opportunities, we will achieve our aim of better awareness and appreciation of our industry.”
The official launch of the project will take place next week at Posidonia.
