Deadline Date: June 21, 2026
The StartBlue Ocean Enterprise Accelerator is offering to support ocean intelligence startups in developing and scaling solutions that advance the Blue Economy and ocean enterprise innovation.
The focus areas include ocean intelligence innovation, Blue Economy development, ocean technology startups, entrepreneurship training, mentorship, technical support, fundraising opportunities, non-dilutive funding, commercialization support, ocean data and observation technologies, and startup acceleration from early to growth stage.
The StartBlue Ocean Enterprise Accelerator is an intensive program aimed at helping startups working in ocean intelligence and freshwater technology accelerate their growth and commercial success. It is designed to support the development of solutions that contribute to the Ocean Enterprise and the broader Blue Economy.
The program provides startups with access to a wide range of resources, including customized training in ocean entrepreneurship, mentorship from experts across academic and industry networks, and guidance on key business areas such as customer discovery, business modelling, regulatory considerations, and market entry strategies.
Participants receive technical support through access to specialized facilities such as makerspaces, laboratories, and testing environments, along with expertise from scientific and engineering networks. These resources help startups build, test, and refine their technologies.
The program also supports fundraising efforts by offering access to investor networks, venture capital connections, and participation in competitions for cash prizes. Eligible startups may also apply for non-dilutive funding to support technology development and commercialization, with funding available up to $20,000 for launch-stage startups and up to $150,000 for scale-stage startups.
Startups gain visibility through showcase events and demo days held at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, providing opportunities to present their innovations to stakeholders and potential partners.
Eligibility is limited to U.S.-based businesses or U.S. subsidiaries incorporated in the United States. Applicants must develop ocean data or observation technologies that align with the NOAA Ocean Enterprise Initiative and demonstrate potential for commercial success. Selected startups must also commit to participating in the program activities scheduled between September and December 2026, including in-person sessions in San Diego.
For more information, visit UC San Diego.
