Full Breakdown
Advancements in Ocean Technology: StartBlue Program and Asia Ocean Fund
9/23/2025, 12:09:42 AM
StartBlue Program: Supporting Ocean-Focused Startups
The StartBlue program, led by the Rady School of Management and the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, aims to foster the growth of ocean-focused startups by providing essential resources and training. This initiative supports the economic growth, maritime security, coastal resilience, and resource management needs of the United States and the Blue Economy. Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation Corinne Peek-Asa emphasized the program's role in translating ocean research into practical solutions that address global challenges.
Startups participating in StartBlue are categorized into two tracks: Launch and Scale. The Launch program targets early-stage startups, offering training in entrepreneurship, customer discovery, and business model development. In contrast, the Scale program focuses on mid-stage startups, enhancing their operational readiness and business development capabilities. This fall, the new cohort will benefit from mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to funding.
Notable Startups in the StartBlue Program
This year's cohort includes innovative companies such as AquaPoro Technologies, which produces affordable water from air, and Dolphin Labs, which harnesses wave energy for ocean research. Other participants include Euler Materials, KAHU, and Nereus Systems, each contributing unique technologies aimed at improving oceanic understanding and sustainability. The program has previously supported 22 startups, which collectively raised $10.1 million, demonstrating its impact on ocean innovation.
Asia Ocean Fund: Addressing Funding Gaps
On September 18, 2025, the Asia Ocean Fund was launched during Impact Week in Singapore, aiming to address the $5.5 trillion funding gap in the Asia Pacific region necessary to meet Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water) targets by 2030. The fund, co-managed by Octave Capital and Katapult Ocean, seeks to catalyze scalable solutions in six key sectors: maritime decarbonization, ocean renewable energy, green shipping infrastructure, ocean biodiversity, circular resources, and sustainable aquaculture.
Despite a doubling of investment in ocean startups in Asia, reaching $400 million from 2020 to 2024, this figure remains significantly lower than global counterparts. The fund plans to make over 20 investments in the next five years, emphasizing the urgent need for accelerated investment in the region's ocean sector.
Criticism & Opposition
While the StartBlue program and Asia Ocean Fund represent significant advancements in ocean technology investment, some critics argue that more comprehensive strategies are needed to ensure long-term sustainability and impact. Concerns have been raised about the adequacy of funding and support for startups beyond initial stages, as well as the need for greater collaboration among stakeholders in the ocean economy.
Official Statements & Responses
NOAA’s Ocean Enterprise Program Manager Zack Baize expressed enthusiasm for the StartBlue program, highlighting its potential to support ocean entrepreneurs through a robust network of experts. Similarly, May Liew, CEO of Octave Capital, noted the importance of bridging innovation and capital to drive the global transition towards a thriving ocean economy.
Verbatim Quotes
- “UC San Diego is proud to serve as a catalyst for innovation at the intersection of science, sustainability, and entrepreneurship,” — Corinne Peek-Asa, Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation
- “Oceans are a shared global lifeline and an investment frontier for regeneration.” — May Liew, CEO of Octave Capital
- “The Asia Ocean fund is that bridge – de-risking early-stage ventures, attracting broader investment, and empowering entrepreneurs and the Asian ecosystem to drive the global transition towards a thriving ocean economy.” — Jonas Skattum Svegaarden, CEO of Katapult Ocean
The StartBlue program and the Asia Ocean Fund exemplify the growing commitment to advancing ocean technology and sustainability, addressing critical challenges while fostering innovation in the sector.
