StartBlue Ocean Enterprise Accelerator Program

The StartBlue Ocean Enterprise Accelerator is a comprehensive four-month program designed to support startups specializing in ocean intelligence. Housed at the University of California, San Diego, the program is a collaborative effort between the Rady School of Management, ranked highly for entrepreneurship, and the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, renowned for its expertise in ocean sciences. The accelerator is structured to foster the growth of the Ocean Enterprise and contribute to the expansion of the Blue Economy by equipping participating startups with the necessary resources and support to scale effectively. The program leverages regional assets and an extensive partner network to provide holistic support for ocean-focused startups across various growth stages. Participation in the accelerator is offered at no cost and without equity requirements, ensuring accessibility for diverse startups. The offerings include entrepreneurial training, mentorship, network connections, visibility opportunities, access to capital and non-dilutive funding, and state-of-the-art ocean-focused technology development facilities. These resources are tailored to meet the unique needs of ocean technology companies aiming to commercialize their innovations. Eligible applicants must be U.S.-based businesses or U.S. subsidiaries incorporated domestically. They should possess a technology, product, or service related to ocean data or observation that aligns with the NOAA Ocean Enterprise Initiative's goals of promoting economic growth, security, environmental stewardship, and resource management. Additionally, startups must demonstrate commercial potential and commit to participating fully in both virtual and in-person program components scheduled from September to December in San Diego. The accelerator is divided into two tracks based on the startups' stage of development. The Launch track supports early-stage companies with technology readiness levels (TRL) 0–3. It offers six classes on ocean entrepreneurship, mentorship from industry and ocean experts, facilitated access to technical facilities, workshops on fundraising and intellectual property, and connections to investment and industry networks. Launch track participants are also featured at TMA Blue Tech Week and Showcase Demo Day and receive a one-year membership in the TMA Blue Tech industry cluster. They can apply for up to $10,000 in non-dilutive funding upon program completion through a competitive process. The Scale track is tailored for mid-stage startups with TRL 3 or higher. It provides advanced training to enhance technology readiness, scale operations, and develop business strategies. Participants receive mentorship, access to technical facilities, and extensive networking opportunities with regional and global stakeholders. They are also showcased during TMA Blue Tech Week and Demo Day and receive a one-year membership in the TMA Blue Tech industry cluster. Scale track participants may apply for up to $200,000 in non-dilutive funding post-program based on eligibility and merit. Key dates for the program include an application deadline of July 31, 2025. An information session will be held on June 26 via Zoom. In-person programming is scheduled for September 22–26 and November 17–21 in San Diego, coinciding with TMA Blue Tech Week, where the Showcase Demo Day will occur on November 20 at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. The program does not specify application questions or provide a detailed evaluation criterion. Contact information and further details about application submission are not explicitly provided in the source text.