Last Friday, we hosted Invest in Blue at the Iceland Ocean Cluster: a dynamic showcase of 10 early-stage startups working at the forefront of ocean innovation.

Just before the event began, an unexpected power cut (due to harbour construction or maintenance) could have derailed the whole thing. But thanks to the extraordinarily beautiful and hot weather (a lucky treat in Reykjavík) we took the event outside, right in front of the harbour. The result? An unforgettable afternoon of ocean innovation, sunshine, and serendipity.

With the fishing vessels as our backdrop, founders pitched bold solutions, from sustainable seafood and zero-waste innovation to AI-powered ocean data and climate-smart materials, directly to investors, funders, and ecosystem players.

We are grateful to our sponsor, Íslandsbanki, for providing drinks and keeping the energy high with Collab, marine collagen-infused energy drinks from Feel Iceland and Djúpið, a deep red ale with seaweed that felt just right for a sunny Reykjavík afternoon. Íslandsbanki was one of the first sponsors of the Iceland Ocean Cluster and remains strong supporter of the Icelandic startup community!

As the blue economy is set to double by 2030, this event was more than just a pitch session, it was a reminder that the future of the ocean economy is already taking shape, with founders ready to lead and a growing community ready to support them.

A huge thank you to everyone who joined us outdoors. We will remember this one for a long time!