Scripps Institution of Oceanography, a leading center for earth science research, is calling on startups to apply for its prestigious StartBlue Ocean Enterprise Accelerator Program. This unique initiative provides an opportunity for innovators to access vital resources and mentorship to develop transformative solutions for pressing environmental challenges.
The StartBlue Ocean Enterprise Accelerator, offered by UC San Diego, caters to early-stage enterprises as well as small and medium ocean-based startups across the United States. The deadline for this year’s cohort is rapidly approaching, with applications closing on July 31, 2025.
This comprehensive and immersive four-month program is a collaborative effort between the entrepreneurial prowess of the Rady School of Management and the oceanic expertise and technical development resources of Scripps Institution of Oceanography. The primary aim of StartBlue is to convert scientific research into actionable and commercially viable solutions that can have a positive impact on the environment.
StartBlue welcomes applications from innovative, impact-driven startups with a focus on developing ocean or freshwater technology, products, or services that aim to support the economic growth, maritime security, coastal resilience, and resource management needs of the U.S. and the Blue Economy. To cater to the different levels of business maturity, startups will be accepted into one of two tracks: Launch for budding startups, and Scale for those in a later stage of development.
Since its inception in 2021, StartBlue has played an instrumental role in driving innovation and industry growth within San Diego’s Blue Economy. The program’s launch was facilitated by initial funding in 2020 from the Economic Development Administration’s “Industry Challenge Award” and generous contributions from members of the Scripps Director’s Council, Builder’s Initiative, and other philanthropists. To date, StartBlue has supported 22 ocean-focused startups, half of which are female-founded, raising a collective $10.1 million during their tenure in the program.
In recognition of its significant contribution, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) awarded StartBlue with a grant of $13.5 million in December 2024. This funding was part of NOAA’s Ocean Enterprise Initiative, a grant opportunity designed to foster the development and implementation of accelerator programs that support small businesses and entrepreneurs. The initiative focuses on commercializing ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes-based observation technologies, products, and services that address ocean resilience needs.
Zack Baize, Ocean Enterprise Program Manager for NOAA’s U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System Office, lauded the opening of the application period for StartBlue’s Ocean Enterprise Accelerator. He emphasized that the program is an exceptional pathway for American small businesses and entrepreneurs to commercialize new technologies, products, and services that support the U.S. ocean economy.
Scripps Institution’s commitment to understanding and safeguarding the planet, combined with its focus on ocean, Earth, and atmosphere research, make it an ideal partner for startups aiming to make a positive environmental impact. The StartBlue Ocean Enterprise Accelerator program offers a unique opportunity for these entrepreneurs to drive innovation in the environmental sector and further solidify their role in the Blue Economy.
Read more from scripps.ucsd.edu
