Innovators, entrepreneurs, researchers, startups, companies, NGOs, and institutions working on sustainable ocean and water solutions now have an exciting opportunity to showcase their innovations on a global stage.
The UNIDO-WTCA Blue Economy Global Call 2026 is officially accepting applications from organizations and innovators developing transformative solutions that contribute to a more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive Blue Economy.
Organized by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) Investment and Technology Promotion Office Italy and the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA), this international competition seeks innovative technologies and scalable business solutions capable of addressing some of the world’s most pressing ocean, coastal, and freshwater challenges.
Selected winners will gain access to a prestigious acceleration program, international visibility, expert mentoring, business matchmaking opportunities, potential pilot projects, and global networking opportunities through UNIDO and WTCA’s extensive international ecosystem.
Understanding the Blue Economy
The Blue Economy represents all economic activities linked to oceans, seas, rivers, lakes, and other water resources while ensuring environmental sustainability and ecosystem protection.
According to the OECD, the Blue Economy generated approximately $1.5 trillion globally in 2010 and is projected to:
- Double in size by 2030.
- Reach approximately $5 trillion in gross value added by 2050.
- Support the livelihoods of more than 3 billion people worldwide.
Beyond its economic significance, the Blue Economy plays a critical role in:
- Climate regulation.
- Biodiversity conservation.
- Food security.
- Coastal protection.
- Sustainable development.
- Renewable energy generation.
As global demand for sustainable development increases, innovative solutions are becoming essential to balance economic growth with environmental protection.
About the UNIDO-WTCA Blue Economy Global Call 2026
The Global Call aims to identify, support, and accelerate innovative solutions that contribute to sustainable Blue Economy development.
The initiative specifically seeks:
- Ready-to-deploy technologies.
- Scalable innovations.
- Sustainable business models.
- High-impact solutions.
- Inclusive development initiatives.
- Climate-resilient technologies.
Particular emphasis will be placed on innovations that benefit:
- Developing countries.
- Economies in transition.
- Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
- Coastal communities.
- Vulnerable populations dependent on marine and freshwater resources.
Six Strategic Categories
Applicants may select up to two categories when submitting their proposal.
1. Blue Renewable Energy
Solutions that promote sustainable energy generation from marine and aquatic resources, including:
- Offshore wind energy.
- Wave energy technologies.
- Tidal power systems.
- Ocean thermal energy solutions.
- Hybrid renewable energy systems.
2. Sustainable Blue Food
Innovations that support responsible food production from aquatic environments, including:
- Sustainable aquaculture.
- Fisheries innovation.
- Seafood traceability technologies.
- Alternative aquatic food systems.
- Smart fishery management solutions.
3. Green Maritime Transport and Smart Ports
Solutions that reduce environmental impacts across maritime logistics and shipping sectors, including:
- Green shipping technologies.
- Smart port systems.
- Maritime digitalization.
- Emission reduction solutions.
- Sustainable logistics innovations.
4. Coastal and Marine Tourism & Recreation
Solutions that promote sustainable tourism while protecting marine ecosystems and maximizing economic benefits for local communities.
Potential focus areas include:
- Eco-tourism technologies.
- Sustainable destination management.
- Coastal conservation initiatives.
- Community-based tourism models.
- Digital tools for responsible tourism.
5. Sea, Lakes and River Health & Restoration
Innovations designed to restore and protect aquatic ecosystems, including:
- Water restoration technologies.
- Pollution monitoring systems.
- Plastic waste reduction solutions.
- Ecosystem rehabilitation initiatives.
- Biodiversity protection technologies.
6. Blue Tech & Biotechnology
Advanced technologies and scientific innovations supporting sustainable aquatic development, including:
- Marine biotechnology.
- Ocean data analytics.
- Artificial intelligence applications.
- Bio-based solutions.
- Marine resource optimization technologies.
Why Participate?
The UNIDO-WTCA Blue Economy Global Call 2026 offers significantly more than recognition.
Winning projects will receive access to a comprehensive acceleration ecosystem designed to help innovations scale internationally.
Benefits for Winners
Each category winner will enter a dedicated acceleration program under the UNIDO-WTCA umbrella and receive:
UNIDO Support
- Technical cooperation expertise.
- Promotion in partner countries.
- Potential pilot and implementation opportunities.
- Access to development cooperation networks.
WTCA Support
- Global business development platforms.
- International market access opportunities.
- Client and investor matchmaking.
- Business acceleration support.
- Worldwide visibility through WTCA’s network.
Strategic Growth Support
- High-level mentoring.
- Expert guidance.
- Scaling support.
- International networking opportunities.
- One year of post-award support.
Investment and Capital-Raising Opportunities
In addition to category winners, up to ten shortlisted applicants in each category will receive support through:
- Virtual demo days.
- In-person investor showcases.
- Investment portfolio publications.
- Exposure to development finance institutions.
- Venture capital networks.
- Impact investors.
- Commercial banks.
- Philanthropic organizations.
Travel Support
Winning teams attending the Award Ceremony in Rome may receive reimbursement of up to USD $3,000 for eligible travel and accommodation expenses associated with participation in the event.
Who Can Apply?
The Global Call welcomes applications from:
- Startups.
- MSMEs.
- Large companies.
- Universities.
- Research institutions.
- NGOs.
- Public-private partnerships.
- Foundations.
- Innovation initiatives.
- Technology developers.
Applicants may submit:
- Early-stage innovations.
- Pilot projects.
- Scaling solutions.
- Technologies undergoing testing.
- Proven commercial innovations.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- Applications must be submitted in English.
- Applicants may select up to two categories.
- Projects must demonstrate a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 4 or higher.
- Applications must be complete and aligned with the objectives of the competition.
- Solutions must demonstrate feasibility and credibility.
- Entries must be original and owned by the applicant.
- No modifications can be made after submission.
Evaluation Criteria
Applications will be assessed by a Scientific Committee and an International Jury based on the following criteria:
| Evaluation Area | Weight |
| Innovative Content | 25% |
| Team Competitiveness | 20% |
| Scalability Potential | 15% |
| Technology Readiness Level | 10% |
| Environmental, Social & Economic Impact | 10% |
| Expected Employment Generation | 10% |
| Financial Sustainability | 10% |
Timeline
Application Opening
20 April 2026
Application Deadline
19 June 2026
Evaluation and Selection Period
June – July 2026
Award Ceremony and Showcase
1 October 2026
The award ceremony will take place in Rome, Italy during the Euro Mediterranean Water Forum.
How to Apply
Click here for more and to apply
Why This Opportunity Matters
As oceans, rivers, lakes, and coastal ecosystems face increasing environmental pressures, innovative solutions are essential for building a sustainable future.
The UNIDO-WTCA Blue Economy Global Call 2026 represents a unique opportunity for innovators worldwide to showcase their technologies, gain international recognition, connect with investors, and accelerate solutions that can improve livelihoods while protecting critical aquatic ecosystems.
For startups, researchers, NGOs, and enterprises working to transform the Blue Economy, this competition offers a powerful platform to scale impact globally.
Application Deadline: 19 June 2026
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