The programme is designed for startups and SMEs who:

• Develop solutions within the ocean economy ​

• Have a validated product, service or technology ​

• Want to enter new markets and grow faster ​in the Nordics

• Are preparing for partnerships, pilots or investment ​

• Want access to Nordic ocean innovation, industry and investor networks​

• Are ready to actively engage in an intense 4 day programme onsite in Finland.

NOCA is looking for ambitious startups and SMEs with validated solutions addressing ocean and blue economy challenges, and the potential to grow across Nordic and international markets.

Applications will be assessed by a pan-Nordic review board based on the following criteria:

• Company: Startups and SMEs with scalable ocean & blue economy solutions

• Geography: Open globally, with an interest in the Nordic market

• Sector: Maritime, aquaculture, ocean energy, blue bioeconomy, marine technology, ocean digitalisation and related fields

• Growth Stage: Validated solution with clear ambitions to commercialise, scale and/or enter new markets

• Innovation: Potential across technology, commercialisation and sustainability

• Motivation: Strong commitment and readiness to actively engage in the programme

• Training Fit: Clear development needs aligned with NOCA’s expertise and support

• Investment Readiness: Willingness to strengthen growth strategy, investment readiness and investor & industry relationships

• Participants: 1–3 participants per company, ideally representing leadership and business development

• Application Deadline: 30 November

At least one person should participate, but the best outcomes are achieved with a cross-disciplinary team. We welcome teams of up to 5 people to join the workshops and guarantee it is effective use of time! (Note that the number of participants in live events may be limited.)​

Participating companies will commit to concrete actions by developing their own strategic commercialisation roadmap, impact plan and recognize financing options.​

The programme format includes online and onsite sessions so that you can easily fit it into your schedule. The program is designed to be as time efficient as possible to ensure event the companies in the most intense growth phase can attend.

A tailored online learning environment, Nordic Ocean Cluster Platform Blue Connect, provides additional learning materials and a place for exchanging ideas with other companies during and beyond the program. You can access the learning environment when it best suits you.

Upon completing our  Programme, your company will gain:

In-Depth Insights: Master the growth in the Nordic Ocean Economy market and stay ahead of future requirements.

Strategic Roadmap: Define clear, actionable goals to drive your business’s blue growth.

Innovative Solutions: Develop cutting-edge ocean economy business model, products and services that set your company apart.

Powerful Tools: Equip your team with practical tools to advance your ocean economy growth efforts.

Powerful Network: Connect with other ocean economy frontrunners and recognize valuable new partnerships.