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