Australian environmental startup accelerator and investor Ocean Impact Organisation (OIO) is again running its six-month accelerator program for startups working on solutions to transform ocean health.
The not-for-profit seeks 10 “game-changing” startups working on sustainablity solutions. Startups focusing on ocean-related issues can apply here.
The Ocean Impact Accelerator Program (OIAP) is an initiative that helps the growth of startups and organisations working on ocean-related issues. Successful startups get $100,000 investment, mentorship, access to active ocean impact investors, and a 6-month virtual program with expert-led classes to help them reach their full potential and bring their ideas and solutions to the market.
OIO works on the preservation and protection of marine life. They raise awareness and solve urgent issues such as plastic pollution, overfishing, and climate change.
The charity has partnered with EnergyLab – Australia’s top climate tech and renewables accelerator – to maximise the impact of OIAP. They aim to accelerate 100 Ocean Impact startups in five years.
CEO and cofounder Nick Chiarelli is thrilled to announce the return of the Ocean Impact Accelerator Program for 2023.
“We were blown away by the quality and commitment of the cohort in 2022 and cannot wait to meet the innovative entrepreneurs seeking entry into the program this year,” he said.
The OIAP is an addition to OIO’s suite of programs and events, including the Ocean Impact Pitchfest, the Ocean Impact Ideation Program, and the INNOVOCEAN showcase event held annually. These programs have seen over 650 startups and entrepreneurs, with 68 being supported.
The program is not specifically designed for a particular industry or technology. Instead, it can be applied to various industries and technologies. Startup solutions may address diverse challenges, from climate change; plastic pollution; fisheries and aquaculture; ocean data and monitoring; decarbonisation; robotics; seaweed, and many other areas.
Applications close on March 19, with interviews with potential candidates being held in April before the program kicks off in June, running until late November.