“The Cluster operates like a true marine ecosystem — dynamic, interconnected, and symbiotic. More than a place, it’s a vessel where ideas move like currents and value is constantly exchanged, where each player finds its place and grows stronger through interaction, where bold ideas are not just welcomed — they’re built.”
Julie Encausse, Founder & CEO of Marea Iceland
“Marea is a biotech company unlocking value from by-products across industries to create high-value biomaterials. Starting with microalgae, we develop solutions such as edible coatings for fresh produce that reduce reliance on plastic — while building a broader platform for material innovation.”
“Marea has been part of the Iceland Ocean Cluster since 2020, in many forms: tenant, access member, frequent collaborator.”
“If anything, we’ve grown within it like a small fish alongside a whale — not in its shadow, but in symbiosis — constantly moving with the current, learning, adapting, and drawing energy from the Cluster´s ecosystem.”
“We joined the Iceland Ocean Cluster to be part of a community that doesn’t just talk about innovation — it builds it.
The Cluster operates like a true marine ecosystem: interconnected, dynamic, and mutually reinforcing, bringing together people who are not afraid to push boundaries, move fast, and rethink entire industries.
What truly sets the Cluster apart is its ability to think beyond conventional boundaries. It is not just supporting innovation — it is actively shaping the blueprint for how real, tangible change in marine industries can happen.”
“There is a unique energy within it: a collective of builders who have normalised pushing limits, being fearless, learning by doing, and moving forward without hesitation.”
“It’s a community that doesn’t dwell on constraints, but instead adapts, pivots, and supports one another — where each element strengthens the whole. In that sense, the Cluster is not only fostering companies, but helping define the next generation of ocean-driven entrepreneurs.”
“Where do I start?”
“Over the years, the Cluster has created constant “ripples” in our direction — each one opening new pathways. Most recently, through connections made around the Blue Open House, we’ve engaged with potential partners in Oceania as we build from Iceland towards international markets.”
“At the same time, some of the most valuable interactions still happen in the simplest way — around the coffee machine — where conversations turn into technical support, partnerships, and momentum for scale-up, and at times serve as an anchor in the high seas of entrepreneurship.”
“A reminder that we are not alone, and that as members of the Iceland Ocean Cluster, we are all navigating these uncharted waters together.”
“That’s the power of the Cluster: from global visibility to everyday, often unexpected interactions, it continuously expands the horizon for what’s possible.”
“Beyond that, the Cluster has consistently supported us in connecting with investors, fellow entrepreneurs, and industry partners — while giving us a platform to showcase our work through events and increased visibility. Their openness to collaboration, including joint initiatives, has played a meaningful role in accelerating our growth.”
