Ocean Innovation Challenge 2026

The Ocean Innovation Challenge 2026 offers funding for private-sector organisations developing innovative solutions to ocean and coastal challenges. Selected applicants receive financial support and participate in an incubation programme spanning up to 17 months, with mentoring and capacity-building components. The focus areas are marine pollution reduction, coastal and marine ecosystem restoration, and sustainable Blue Economy initiatives, with preference for women- and youth-led or owned innovations.

Financial support, technical mentoring, project management and reporting support, communications and outreach assistance, fundraising and investment-readiness mentoring, networking opportunities, and enhanced global visibility.

Open to legally registered private-sector organisations worldwide, including start-ups, SMEs, private companies, social enterprises and other eligible private-sector entities.

Submit proposals through the official online proposal submission form on the Ocean Innovation Challenge platform.