Applications now open for the Ocean Impact Accelerator Program 2024
Press release for immediate distribution
SYDNEY, 26 MARCH 2024
Transformative startups sought for Ocean Impact Accelerator Program
Participants to join growing list of high-impact startups improving ocean health
Australia’s Ocean Impact Organisation (OIO) has today opened applications to the Ocean Impact Accelerator Program (OIAP) 2024. Now in its third year, the OIAP is OIO’s flagship program, providing the best ocean impact startups with the support they need to reach their potential.
OIAP 2023 participant Aquacultr’s CEO and Founder Mat Goddard pitching at INNOVOCEAN
The OIAP is seeking applications from startups across the Asia-Pacific region working in four major Ocean Solution Areas, including: Ocean Pollution, Climate, Food Security, and Habitat & Biodiversity. A description of the types of solutions being sought can be found here.
Previous participants in the program illustrate the diverse and scalable innovations being pioneered to tackle the enormous challenges facing ocean health. Previous participants include:
Mayani (OIAP 2022, Philippines) | Uplifting the lives of Filipino fisherfolk by harnessing the transformative power of technology.
RiverRecycle (OIAP 2022, multiple SE Asia sites) | Patented technology to clean rivers with a circular business model creating jobs and social/environmental improvements.
EcoSpears (OIAP 2023, USA) | Extracting and eliminating ‘forever chemicals’ from soil, sediment, and waterways.
Hullbot (OIAP 2023, Australia) | “The ocean’s most sophisticated robot,” tackling the three impacts of maritime biofouling; CO2 emissions, pollution, and invasive species transport.
Saathi (OIAP 2022, India) | Plastic-free, biodegradable, and compostable sanitary pads from banana and bamboo fibre that address plastic pollution and CO2 emissions, while empowering women.
OIAP 2022 participant Saathi’s Co-founder Kristin Kagetsu pitching at INNOVOCEAN
Successful startups will receive guaranteed investment, access to mentors, investor introductions, facilitated connections to customers & partners, and extensive exposure to OIO’s global community.
Applications to the program are open until 28 April 2024, with applicants selected mid-May and the program commencing on 1 July. The four-month program will conclude in early November with activities in Sydney, culminating in each startup taking the stage at OIO’s INNOVOCEAN showcase event.
OIAP 2023 participant Hullbot’s CEO and Co-founder Tom Loefler in the startup zone at INNOVOCEAN
“We are immensely proud to have built this program and supported and invested in 12 startups over the past two years. The rapidly emerging sustainable blue economy needs innovation, and we're excited to see transformative solutions from those who apply in 2024 as we continue driving impact and investment into this space" said Nick Chiarelli, CEO and Co-founder of OIO.
He added, "Don’t hesitate to submit your application, our experienced team led by OIO's Programs Manager Elisa-Marie Dumas is here to support you."
-END-
For press enquiries please contact:
Tim Silverwood
Head of Marketing and Community
info@ocean-impact.org
About OIO
Ocean Impact Organisation (OIO) helps startups make their greatest impact through funding and growth opportunities. Headquartered in Australia with a focus on the Asia-Pacific, our commercialisation programs and support initiatives accelerate the best solutions to transform ocean health.
At the forefront of the ocean health innovation ecosystem, OIO is passionately driving impact and investment into the rapidly emerging sustainable blue economy. Visit the website for more information: ocean-impact.org
