Oceanovation Festival

DIVE INTO THE 2024 PROGRAMME

By participating in the OCEANOVATION Festival Programme, attendees explored an array of content, including practical workshops, strategic industry spotlights, hands-on roundtable discussions, dynamic project pitches, and dialogues centred on finance and investment.

The second edition was designed to align the primary drivers of innovation with net zero goals. Investors, founders, corporates, incubators, accelerators, and industry experts were invited to immerse themselves in two days of curated engagement, covering traditional industries and their shift to greener practices, as well as the power of nature-based solutions.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Day 1: Wednesday 19 June 2024

09:10- 09:30

OPENING KEYNOTE

BBC “BLUE HORIZONS” SERIES RELEASE

In envisioning futuristic scenarios, this plenary session seeks to inspire and inform, igniting a collective vision for a digitally transformed and sustainable Blue Economy while exploring how today’s pioneers pave the way for tomorrow’s innovators and how technologies and smart practices will shape future blue economy sectors, guiding investors and corporations to anticipate and navigate emerging trends.

09:30 – 10:00

SHIPPING

Driving the Tech Revolution in Green Shipping

Participate in a dynamic discussion on how digitalization affects sustainability in shipping, innovative environmental strategies in maritime transport, and advancements in green fuel and vessel design.

Presented by:

Jasper Schuringa | Head of Corporate Venturing | Damen

Lora Jakobsen | Head of Marketing Communications and Purpose | ZeroNorth

Wim Stubbe | Owner | Aartlink

OCEAN  RESTORATION

Exploring Innovative Solutions to Accelerate Ocean Restoration

Delve into innovative marine restoration strategies to conserve biodiversity and ecosystems, emphasizing holistic approaches for coral reefs, regenerative habitats, and marine ecosystems, while considering ecological, social, and economic factors driving restoration initiatives.

Presented by:

James Morris | Climate project manager | Blue Marine Foundation

Ulrike Pfreundt | Co-founder | rrreefs

Alan Laubsch | Founder | Generation Blue

Klaas de Vos | Founder and Consultant | Ocean Fox Advisory

AQUACULTURE

KEYNOTE: How Aquaculture and Blue Foods Shape
Our Food System and Planetary Health

What role can aquaculture and blue foods play in ensuring food security and protecting biodiversity? Dr. Jason Clay explores how the farming of aquatic organisms has become one of the most important pillars in our future food system.


Presented by:

Dr. Jason Clay | Senior Vice President, Market transformation | World Wildlife Fund

FOUNDERS DIALOGUE:  

Storytelling for Start-ups: Master Your Ocean Story & Empower Your Pitch

Are your pitch presentations telling the story of your ocean startup in the most impactful way possible? If you said no, then Storytelling for Startups is for you. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll dive into the skills you need to tell a more impactful story about your company and its ocean mission. The best part? You’ll work on crafting a solid ocean story during the workshop, meaning you’ll walk out the door with a stronger pitch to take to the stage.

Presented by:

Natalie Gilson | Head of Ocean Science Communications | Pisces Research Project Management Inc

Please note this is a 90 minute session: 
09.30 – 11.00 hours

10:00 – 10:30

SHIPPING

Investment Opportunities in Green Shipping Solutions

Join the conversation dedicated to exploring investment opportunities in green shipping solutions, discussing diverse avenues for investment, promising ventures, and innovative strategies propelling sustainable maritime projects forward, while examining the contributions of venture capital and sustainable finance initiatives in shaping the green shipping industry.

Presented by:

Ida Christine Brun | Venture capital and corporate partnerships | Maersk

Lisa Hubert | Investment Director |  Mirova

Anne Lebreton-wolf | Partner |  Good Only Ventures

OCEAN  CONSERVATION

Achieving Ocean Protection by Integrating Private Financing

Delve into investment opportunities and financing mechanisms for ocean conservation projects, examining the economic rationale behind investing in ocean conservation and innovative financing models like impact investing that are driving efforts to protect our oceans.

Presented by:

Antoine Rougier | ESG & Impact Manager | Deliberate Capital

Ohad Maiman | Founder/Managing Partner | Aqua Founders Capital

Ignasi Ferrer | CEO & Co-Founder | Ocean Ecostructures

Monica Jain | Founder| CEO | Manta Consulting Inc.

AQUACULTURE

Sustainable aquaculture through technology and innovation

Driven by the need to grow amidst increasingly limited resources and mounting public scrutiny, over the last decade, the aquaculture sector has experienced a boom of technological development and innovation. Let’s dive into the world of aquaculture transformation!”

Presented by: 

Flavio Corsin | Director of Partnerships and HR | Aqua-Spark

10:30 – 11:00

START-UP PITCHES

11:00 – 11:45

NETWORKING BREAK AND MATCHMAKING

11:45 – 12:15

PORTS

Driving Investment to Leverage Innovation Opportunities in Green Ports

Let’s transform ports and redefine their message and purpose into vibrant hubs of connectivity, innovation, and sustainability, as they adapt to changing demands to become key drivers of the blue economy. This session explores leading technologies and initiatives, alongside an examination of the financial landscape of green port projects. 

Presented by:

Ann Lee Carpenter | Co-Founder | Braid Theory

Mare Straetmans | Founder | Platform Zero

Oliver Risse | Investment Partner | HHLA

Joris Kil | Investment Manager | Rotterdam Port Fund

Please note this is a 45 minute session: 
12.15 – 13.00 hours

BLUE BIO

Unlocking the Potential of Blue Biotechnology and its Applications

Explore the transformative potential of marine-derived compounds across pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, and beyond, harnessing ocean microorganisms for sustainable agriculture and aquaculture, while considering the significance of partnerships in advancing Blue Biotech and navigating the opportunities and challenges of funding such projects.

Presented by:

Carlos Esteban | Partner | Faber Blue Pioneers

Marta Costa | Programme Manager | Blue Bio Value

Elisabete Da Costa | Executive Advisor | Blue Bio Alliance

Alessandro Romano | CEO | Ittinsect 

Please note this is a 60 minute session: 
11.45 – 12.45 hours

DEEP DIVES

INVESTORS DIALOGUE:

The Reverse Pitch by Investors

Let’s flip the script! What if the founders first had the opportunity to get to know the investor better? Each investor is given five minutes to introduce themselves, their investment philosophies, preferences, pet peeves and pitch their value propositions. Join this session to build bridges and forge meaningful relationships that transcend the transactional nature of investment.

Presented by:

Pierre Erwes| Partner | Blue Forward Fund

Oliver Risse | Investment Partner | HHLA Next

Noelia Abascal | Satellite Applications Engineer | European Space Agency

 

12:15 – 12:45

DEEP DIVES

FOUNDERS DIALOGUE:

Securing Funding – Think like an Investor!

Want to learn what its like to be on the other side of the table? Join this interactive session where everyone takes on an investor role. The fun and fast session includes discussions and debates as everyone selects values-based investments and we learn the thinking behind their decisions. You will learn how to communicate effectively with investors and how to forge meaningful, values aligned partnerships

Presented by:

Monica Jain | Founder/ CEO | Manta Consulting Inc.

Remy Garderet | Managing Partner | Manta consulting Inc.

Please note this is a 60 minute session: 
12.15 – 13.15 hours

12:45 – 13:15

START-UP PITCHES

13:15 – 14:30

NETWORKING LUNCH AND MATCHMAKING

14:30 – 15:00

OCEAN DATA & AI

Why You Should Care About Ocean Data & AI

Discover practical strategies for integrating Ocean Data and AI into business operations, exploring the latest trends and technologies in collecting, analyzing, and utilizing ocean data, understanding its role in informing sustainable practices and resource management in the blue economy, and identifying effective methods for businesses to seamlessly integrate ocean data and AI into their operations.

Presented by:

Stephen Hall | Head of Partnerships | Seabed 2030

Meri Rosich | CEO | Oceonomy

Andy Ellwood | Co-founder | OCN.ai

Pooja Mahapatra | Principal Advisor – Climate & Nature | Fugro

Please note this is a 45 minute session: 
14.30 – 15.15 hours

BLUE FOODS

Investment and Consumer Trends in Aquaculture and Blue Foods

The sustainable aquaculture industry is booming. Let’s take a look at this rapidly growing sector to see how customer preferences are evolving and the opportunities investors are getting excited about.

Presented by:

Thijn van Doorne | Investor Relations Manager | Aqua-Spark

Ava van Vliet | Investment Manager | Hatch Blue

Willem de Bruijn | Senior Director Markets and Communications | Aquaculture Stewardship Council

Please note this is a 45 minute session: 
14.30 – 15.15 hours

DEEP DIVES

FOUNDERS DIALOGUE:

The New Changemaker Mindset: Stop Hustling, Start Thriving.

Unlock resilience, high performance, and mindset mastery in this immersive workshop for ocean entrepreneurs. Dive deep into principles for unstoppable success through active participation and first-hand experiences.


Presented by:

Matthias Hombauer | Founder | Lead From Within

Please note this is a 60 minute session: 
14.30 – 15.30 hours

15:00 – 15:30

OCEAN DATA & AI

Ocean Data & AI: Your Next Smart Investment Move?

Let’s delve into the investment potential of ocean data & AI ventures, exploring how advancements in AI are revolutionising data management, the day-to-day applications enhancing investment decisions, and the role of AI as a significant driver in the ocean sector. Experts will discuss funding opportunities, market potential, and the economic viability of  in this rapidly growing sector.

Presented by:

Pierre Erwes | Partner | Blue Forward Fund – Seventure Partners

Remy Garderet | Managing Partner | Manta consulting

Andreea Strachinsecu | Head of Unit – Research, innovation and investment in the marine and maritime sectors | European Commission – Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs

Please note this is a 45 minute session: 
15.15 – 16.00 hours

DEEP DIVES

Animal Welfare and Seafood Investment –
The Missing Key to Sustainability Success

In the blue economy, sustainability is vital for seafood’s role in global food provision. Robust animal welfare protections are essential for a complete sustainability strategy, offering many opportunities for investors looking to make a big impact.

Presented By: 

Jane Bush  | Corporate Engagement Advisor |  Crustacean Compassion

Christine Xu | Head of Fisheries Welfare |  Aquatic Life Institute

Ben Perry | Head of Sales | Ace Acquatec

Please note this is a 60 minute session: 
15.00 – 16.00 hours

15:15 – 15:45

START-UP PITCHES

15:45 – 16:00

NETWORKING BREAK AND MATCHMAKING

16:00 – 17:00

OCEANLOVE INNOVATION AWARDS

17:00 – 18.30

NETWORKING DRINKS 

Day 2: Thursday 20 June 2024

09:00 – 09:30

OCEAN ENERGY

Exploring Next-Gen Ocean Energy Technologies

Discover the cutting-edge developments in ocean energy technologies and uncover innovative approaches propelling the expansion of the sector, assessing the potential of wave energy converters, tidal turbines, and ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) systems for renewable energy generation, while examining the challenges and opportunities in deploying these next-generation technologies

Presented by:

Brendan Cahill | Director Of European Development | ORPC Ireland

Drew Blaxland | CEO | Proteus Marine Renewables

Cameron McNatt | Managing Director | Mocean Energy

Sarah Thomas | Head of Origination | Floating Power Plant

Moderator:

Peter Scheijgrond Bluespring / Campus@Sea

REGENERATIVE OCEAN FARMING, BIODIVERSITY & MCDR

Impact of Regenerative Ocean Farming on Biodiversity and Carbon Sequestration.

EAs regenerative agriculture initiatives continue to gain popularity worldwide, join regenerative farming experts as they discuss what regenerative aquaculture looks like in practice and how it contributes to increased biodiversity, carbon sequestration and a healthier food system and marine environment.


Presented by:

Koen Van Seijen | Host and Co Founder | Investing in Regenerative Agriculture

Caroline Slootweg | CEO and Co-founder | Kelp Blue

Bernardo Carvalho | CEO and Founder |  Oceano Fresco 

UNDP Session:

Do’s and Don’ts of Ocean Innovation: Lessons and Success Stories from the UNDP Ocean Innovation Challenge

Engage in this dynamic session sharing key insights and lessons learned from implementing ocean innovation projects of diverse types and scales across the globe. Hear first-hand experiences from Fortuna Cools (Coconut
Coolers) on product development, expansion, and leveraging mainstream media for greater impact, as well as from IPNLF on addressing challenges in innovative fisheries, including small-scale fishing.

Presented by:

Khristine Gudczinski | Organizer, Communications Specialist, and Mentor | UNDP Ocean Innovation Challenge

Tamara Mekler | Co-founder and COO | Fortuna Cools

Philippine Wouters | Marketing and Communication Director | International Pole and Line Foundation (IPNLF)

09:30 – 10:00

OCEAN ENERGY

Investment Perspectives in Offshore Renewables

Explore the financial aspects of ocean energy, including the structure of investment landscapes, financing models, and strategies for risk mitigation, while assessing the economic outlook and anticipated returns on investment in ocean energy ventures, and examining the role of government incentives and public-private partnerships in fostering growth within the sector.

Presented by:

Andrew Smith | Executive Director | Greenbackers Investment Capital

Mevin Kistnassamy |  Founding Partner | Blue Pelican Capital

Michael White |  Venture Partner | Planet Ocean Fund

Moderator:

Peter Scheijgrond | Bluespring / Campus@Sea

MARINE CARBON DIOXIDE REMOVAL 

Financing the Future of Marine Carbon Dioxide Removal

Embark on a journey to uncover the transformative power of strategic finance in unleashing the vast potential of the ocean, as industry experts delve into innovative funding models that hold the key to scaling up marine carbon removal technologies.


Presented by:

Alan Laubsch | Founder | Vlinder

Ed Phillips | Partner | Future Planet Capital

Ted Janulis | Founder and Principal | Investable Ocean

FOUNDERS DIALOGUE:

FOUNDERS DIALOGUE

Tackling your StartUp Growth Journey

This engaging roundtable invites entrepreneurs to interact directly with seasoned founders and peers. Discuss the pitfalls that often lead to startup failures, share your own challenges, and learn how to push through from the direct experiences of others. This roundtable is an excellent opportunity for gaining actionable insights and strategies to navigate the complex journey of startup growth.

Presented by:

Susanne Wedin-Schildt | Founding Partner | Ocean Community Challenge

Please note this is a 45 minute session: 
09.45 – 10.30 hours

10:00 – 10:30

START-UP PITCHES

10:30 – 11:15

NETWORKING BREAK AND MATCHMAKING

11:15 – 12:00

OCEAN TECH

Why it’s Time to Invest in Ocean Tech

Delve into the rationale for investing in Ocean Deep Tech, examining the latest trends and diverse applications in blue technology, exploring how advancements in marine robotics, autonomous vehicles, and emerging deep-sea exploration technologies are shaping the field, and discussing financial considerations and investment strategies that support innovation in blue technology.

 

 

Presented by:

Steffen Knodt | Founder | Deep Blue Earth

Jake Edmiston | Project Researcher | Blue Marine Foundation

Piers Lakin |  Senior Associate | Ocean 14 Capital

Amelie Desrochers | Director of Innovation | Novarium

SEAWEED

The Magical World of Seaweed: How the Macroalgae will Transform our Future Industries.

Seaweed are magical lifeforms. With over 12,000 species, we are only just beginning to understand their potential to regenerate marine ecosystems, offer a source of quality nutrition and be transformed into bioplastics and biofuel. Join the FD’s lead food systems journalist Maureen Blankenstijn as she talks with three entrepreneurs in the seaweed space about how their products are leading us to a seaweed solution-filled future.

Presented by:

Maureen Blankestijn | Editor Agriculture and Food Chains | Financieele Dagblad

Steven Hermans | Founder |  Phyconomy 

Somwmya Balendiran | Co-founder and Chief Business Officer | Sea6 Energy

Karen Scofield | CEO & Co-founder| OCEANIUM

Please note this is a 60 minute session: 
11.15 – 12.15

DEEP DIVES

The future of aquafeeds for a sustainable aquaculture sector

Aquaculture is essential to meet the 2050 projected doubling of seafood demand. The scarcity, volatility and sustainability of traditional feed ingredients prompts a search for scalable, sustainable, and cost-competitive alternatives. Join global aquafeed leaders in shaping the future of aquafeed.

Presented by:

Flavio Corsin | Director of Partnerships and HR | Aqua-Spark

Please note this is a 90 minute session: 
11.15 – 12.45

12:00 – 12:45

START-UP PITCHES

12:45 – 14:00

🏆**ANNOUNCING THE AWARDED TEAMS from the OCEAN COMMUNITY CHALLENGE 2024**🏆

Come join us as we announce which of the 10 finalists – from 8 countries – that will join our award program! Let’s give a BIG wave of applause to these incredible teams! 

We meticulously evaluated 40 submissions applying 12 scoring criteria and conducted clarification calls with 17 teams. Our mentors have proudly supported 10 outstanding teams with early-stage solutions gearing up for commercialisation.

Thank you jury members, mentors and partners. As a non-profit enterpreneur supporting organization, we rely on you so we can continue to support early founders with hopeful solutions.

 

12:45 – 14:00

NETWORKING LUNCH AND MATCHMAKING

14:00 – 14:30

SPACE & THE OCEAN

Space & the Ocean: The Next (Profitable) Frontier?

Explore synergies between space and ocean exploration, revealing profitable ventures and innovations. As advancements converge, new possibilities emerge, reshaping our understanding of both the cosmos and ocean depths.

Presented by:

Ted Janulis | Founder and Principal | Investable Ocean

Philippe Boissat | CEO | 3i3Signature LLC

Pierre Erwes | Partner | Blue Forward Fund – Seventure Partners

Diana Mathew | Satellite Applications Engineer | European Space Agency

Please note this is a 60 minute session: 
14.00 – 15.00 hours

MARINE POLLUTION

Preventing Marine Pollution through Innovation

Explore inventive approaches to protect our oceans from pollution, examining how innovative business models and technologies can intercept pollution at its source, considering the role of reimagined traditional industries in preventing marine pollution, and highlighting the collaborative efforts between innovators and businesses to drive proactive strategies in combating marine pollution.

Presented by:

Julie Peyrache | Investment Director | SWEN Capital Partners

Marine Hamelin |
Innovation Ecosystem Project Manager | Blumorpho


Mathilda D’silva |
  CEO | Ocean Purpose Project

Birgit M. Liodden | Founder & CEO |The Ocean Opportunity Lab AS

DEEP DIVES

Multi-use at Sea Masterclass

Join this dynamic learning experience designed for deep diving into the potentials of multi-use sea projects. It offers participants the opportunity to learn from experts and engage in small group collaborations. Ideal for anyone interested in fostering innovative ocean use solutions and new collaborations!

Presented by:

Reinier J. Rijke | CEO | Water2Energy Projects BV

Daniel Buhagiar | Co-Founder/CEO | FLASC B.V

Flavio Corsin | Director of Partnerships and HR | Aqua-Spark

Sten Swanenberg | Founder | Dutch Wave Power

Lotte Holvast | Innovation Program Manager | Oceans of Energy

Moderator:

Peter Scheijgrond | Bluespring / Campus@Sea

Please note this is a 45 minute session: 
14.00 – 14.45

14:30 – 15:00

MARINE POLLUTION

Ocean Cleaning Solutions: Transforming Waste into Value

This panel is a call for urgency, addressing marine pollution and the challenges and opportunities associated with cleanup efforts. Beyond removal, experts will discuss the transformative potential of repurposing marine waste into valuable resources. Startups, investors, and corporates will gain valuable insights into cutting-edge technologies, learn from the success story of The Ocean Cleanup, and delve into the economic feasibility of recycling ocean plastics.

Presented by:

Stella van den Berg | Director Waste Management and Recycling | The Ocean Cleanup

Marcel Alberts | Founder | HEALIX BV

Carlos Wever | Materials Innovation Manager | Schoeller Allibert

Julie De Bruyckere | International Key Account Manager Beverage | Schoeller Allibert

15:00 – 15:30

CLOSING SESSION

INVESTOR DIALOGUE: What are you most looking forward to in 2025?

In this forward-thinking dialogue, investors share their anticipations and aspirations for the year ahead and beyond. From emerging trends to promising opportunities, join the conversation to gain unique insights into what the investment community is eagerly looking forward to in the ever-evolving landscape of the blue economy.

Presented by:

Pierre Erwes | Partner | Blue Forward Fund – Seventure Partners

Maria Velkova | Investment manager | Aquaspark

15:30 – 16:30

NETWORKING & CLOSING DRINKS