Please see the Stage 1 Guidelines document for complete information. Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Contact us.
What Is the Ocean Enterprise Accelerator?
The VentureWell Ocean Enterprise Accelerator is a new program designed to empower the innovators who are tackling the most critical challenges facing our oceans and coastal communities. Over four years, the Ocean Enterprise Accelerator will scale its efforts to support up to 220 ventures through a structured, four-stage program. Participants will gain access to entrepreneurial training, expert mentorship, Technology Development and Commercialization (TDC) awards, and state-of-the-art testing facilities offered by our partners around the country.
What Are the Accelerator Stages?
Our optional Stage 0 program is designed specifically for those who are new to the world of commercialization and venture development. Stage 0 is a virtual program consisting of three half-day workshops. It is the recommended entry point and is designed so that innovators will be equipped for future Stage 1 cycles. It is not a required prerequisite for innovators who are further along in their venture development.
Stage 1 will offer more intensive training on market discovery and validation and business model development. The program includes a three-day in-person workshop, followed by three months of virtual sessions and personalized coaching. Participants in this stage are also eligible for $15,000 in TDC awards based on a competitive merit review process.
Stages 2 and 3 will become available for application after successful completion of Stage 1 and will include even deeper mentorship and venture support, as well as additional TDC awards.
When Will the Cohorts Be Held?
See sidebar for key dates. We are planning to run two cycles of Stage 0 and Stage 1 in 2025 (Spring and Fall); Stage 2 will start in 2026.
Is There a Cost for the Program?
Stage 0 and Stage 1 are part of the Ocean Enterprise Accelerator suite of programs. If accepted, there is no registration fee. Stage 0 requires virtual participation only. Accepted participants in Stage 1 are responsible for their own transport and accommodation costs for the in-person portion of the program.
How Do We Know If Our Team Is a Fit for the Program?
We’re looking for U.S.-based innovators and ventures developing technologies in key marine and coastal sector industries, including coastal management, marine carbon, water quality, aquaculture, shipping, ports, tourism, and others.
Technical expertise may include—but is not limited to—the following:
- Disciplines: Ocean engineering, civil/environmental engineering, environmental sciences, marine biology, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, oceanography, etc.
- Expertise: Geographic information systems (GIS), robotics, corrosion, acoustics, risk/hazard coastal mitigation, instrumentation, sensors, ocean mapping, etc.
Should I Apply to Stage 0 or Stage 1?
Stage 0 is open to university faculty, researchers, students, and teams who are interested in exploring the commercial opportunities of their research or innovations and may be new to the world of commercialization and venture development. If you do have a team, we encourage you to apply with your team, but it is not necessary. The program is open to early-stage innovators and researchers, and we recognize that you may not have formed a team yet.
Stage 1 is open to innovators and startups at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 3 or beyond (e.g., proof of concept) that have the potential for intellectual property creation. Participating teams will also be able to show a clear, positive impact that solves a real problem felt by customers. The program is open to teams at U.S.-based colleges or universities and startups incorporated in the U.S., not to individual inventors.
What Geographies Is the Program Open To?
The Ocean Enterprise Accelerator is open to U.S.-based teams and U.S. startups around the country. We do not accept applications from international universities or international startups at this time.
The overall accelerator is focused on addressing the most critical challenges facing our oceans and coastal communities (including all U.S. coasts and the Great Lakes).
Is Funding Available to Participating Teams?
Starting at Stage 1, non-dilutive funding in the form of Technology Development and Commercialization Awards is available in direct awards to the teams, based on eligibility and a competitive merit review process. This includes Stage 1 ($15,000), Stage 2 ($50,000), and Stage 3 ($75,000). The program also includes access to a technical assistance fund for additional support services.
TDC awards are awarded to the U.S. institution, such as university or college, or to a U.S.-based incorporated startup, not directly to individuals. Please see the Stage 1 Guidelines for complete information on the TDC awards, including eligible and ineligible expenses.
Will I Get Access to a Network of Mentors and Experts as Part of This Accelerator?
The Ocean Enterprise Accelerator brings together an esteemed network of partners, including academic institutions, research facilities, and industry experts, to ensure that participants have access to state-of-the-art resources, expert guidance, and the connections they need to succeed. From recruitment hubs at universities across the country to demonstration facilities that bring ideas to life, this program is about building bridges, unlocking potential, and driving meaningful progress for the blue economy. Coaches from our Phase 1 2024 NOAA Innovates Program included:
- Sandra Fujiyama, executive director, Pacific Asian Center for Entrepreneurship
- Courtney McGeachy, former director of Ocean Visions-United Nations Decade Collaborative Center for Ocean Climate Solutions, Ocean Visions
- Jeff Plumblee, hazard mitigation and commercialization specialist
- Whitney Tallarico, CEO, GRIT Consulting
- Kirk Waltz, director, Government Services Business Development, American Bureau of Shipping
Innovators will have access to instructors, coaches, and guest speakers, along with templates and tools to support their continued development post-workshop.
Not Sure If You Are a Fit? Interested in Translating Your Technology or Field of Emphasis to One of the Technical Areas?
We encourage you to apply or reach out with any questions! Contact Mandy Sutton for more information.
Please also visit the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Integrated Ocean Observing System page to learn more about the Ocean Enterprise Accelerators.