PROGRAMMES
At the World Ocean Council (WOC), we turn ambition into action. Our programmes tackle the most pressing challenges in ocean sustainability — from climate resilience and marine biodiversity to blue finance and innovation — through bold, cross-sector collaboration.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, scientist, or business leader, there’s a
place for you in our global initiatives.
BLUE ECONOMY GLOBAL INNOVATION NETWORK (BEGIN)
Catalyzing innovation for a sustainable ocean economy
BEGIN connects startups, accelerators, corporate leaders, and investors to drive breakthrough solutions for the Blue Economy.
From climate tech to ocean data, this is where next-generation innovation meets real-world impact.
Current Projects:
THE CONTINUUM
CARIRI
NEOM
GLOBAL BLUE FINANCE NETWORK (BLUEFIN)
Investing in the future of the
ocean
BlueFIN mobilizes sustainable finance for ocean-positive initiatives.
We design innovative mechanisms like Ocean Positive/Nature Credits, bringing capital into ecosystem restoration and climate resilience.
Current Projects:
BLUEFIN SUMMITS
VIRTUAL ROUNDTABLES
PORTS, CITIES, AND RESILIENCE
Building coastal infrastructure for a changing planet
This programme strengthens adaptation, green shipping, and sustainable infrastructure at the land-sea interface.
We focus on scalable solutions — from net-zero vessels to innovative shipbuilding and repair.
Current Projects:
GREEN MARINE MED
BlueGlue
SMART OCEAN
Harnessing technology
to power sustainability
The Smart Ocean programme accelerates the adoption of marine data, AI, and ocean observation technologies to drive sustainable development.
Our flagship initiative:
SMART Ocean – SMART Industries
(SO-SI).
Current Projects:
SO-SI
CLIMATE AND MARINE BIODIVERSITY
Protecting ecosystems and advancing climate solutions
This programme delivers science-driven solutions to address climate risk and protect marine biodiversity.
From carbon dioxide removal to ship-strike prevention, we align with leading global frameworks.
Current Projects:
SEA02-CDR
EU-PolarNET II
POLICY AND PLANNING
Advancing sustainable ocean governance
WOC supports sustainable ocean policy through marine spatial planning, multi-use frameworks, and governance of international waters.
We engage directly with global priorities like the High Seas, Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ), and Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).
Current Projects:
MEDSEAPLAN
ESA BLUE ECONOMY
GIZ WIO
GET INVOLVED
WOC welcomes partnerships with companies, investors, researchers, and institutions that share our vision for a thriving, regenerative ocean economy.
WAYS TO COLLABORATE:
Partner with us – contribute your expertise to cross-sector programmes
Support or co-develop funded projects – drive real-world, science-backed solutions
Sponsor or invest – help scale high-impact initiatives and emerging innovations
Let’s Shape the Future of Ocean Sustainability — Together.
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