Blue Bio Clusters

Objective

The BlueBioClusters project aims to strengthen the blue bioeconomy of Europe’s coastal regions by enhancing existing blue bioeconomy clusters. Through cross-sectoral collaboration and shared methodologies, it supports start-ups, SMEs, and regional actors to develop eco-friendly, circular value chains, especially in food, marine biotechnology, and ecosystem services to drive sustainable growth and social impact.

Context

Although coastal areas possess rich marine resources, their blue bioeconomy ecosystems remain fragmented with limited access to innovation support, infrastructure, and investment. There is a growing global demand for sustainable marine-based products, yet regional coordination is weak. BlueBioClusters addresses this by connecting clusters, tools, and businesses to facilitate innovation, knowledge transfer, and ecosystem service valuation.

Parners

Led by the SUBMARINER Network for Blue Growth EEIG, the consortium includes 12 partners across 9 European regions: Pôle Mer Bretagne Atlantique, Tartu Biotechnology Park, Klaipeda University, University of Tartu, De Blauwe Cluster, Iceland Ocean Cluster, BLUEBIO ALLIANCE, Association Klaipėda Region, Innovatum AB, NCE Blue Legasea, The Scottish Association for Marine Science.

Funding

BlueBioClusters is funded by the European Union Horizon Europe programme.

101 Mentoring Series Empowering Blue Startups

The Iceland Ocean Cluster recently hosted a series of hands-on mentoring sessions through the BlueBioClusters project. Focused on early-stage ocean entrepreneurs, the 101 Mentoring Series delivered practical guidance in the areas of sales, fundraising, and sustainability. Each session was led by an experienced mentor and designed to help startups navigate key milestones as they grow their ventures in the blue economy.

Learn more here