BlueInvest Africa 2026 Call: Pitch Your Blue Economy Innovation

The focus areas for this initiative include supporting African startups and SMMEs with scalable products or services delivering measurable ocean and coastal impact, promoting fisheries and aquaculture, maritime logistics, coastal tourism, circular economy, marine energy, and ocean data/technology. The programme prioritizes entrepreneurs with traction and a clear path to market, aiming to facilitate visibility, networking, mentorship, and financial support to scale sustainable blue solutions.

Selected entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to deliver pitches on stage, present their business ideas, products, or services, and engage directly with public and private investors to secure financial support. Participants will also benefit from coaching and mentoring sessions tailored to their pitch preparation, access to side events addressing financing opportunities, and connections with fellow African project holders in blue initiatives. Media coverage before and during the event will further enhance visibility for selected projects.

Applications will be evaluated based on predefined criteria including impact, innovation, business model, and team strength, with up to 30 finalists invited to pitch at the event. Eligible participants must qualify as Micro, Small, or Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSMEs) according to EU Recommendation 2003/361, with company size, staff headcount, and turnover or growth rates determining the classification as micro, small, or medium.

This year’s BlueInvest Africa forum will take place the week of 2 November 2026, offering a unique opportunity to engage with investors, development banks, and other financial institutions, while connecting with a continent-wide community accelerating Africa’s blue economy.

For more information, visit BlueInvest Africa.