BlueInvest Africa 2026 Opens Call for African Blue Economy Startups

BlueInvest Africa 2026 is now accepting applications from African startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in the blue economy to participate in its upcoming event scheduled for November 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa. The application window is open until February 13, 2026.

Eligible applicants include businesses registered and actively operating in African Union member countries within sectors such as sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, blue technology and marine renewable energy, maritime transport and logistics, coastal and marine tourism, and the circular economy. Detailed eligibility criteria are available in the application guidelines.

Selected participants will have the opportunity to present their projects to private and public investors, receive tailored pitch coaching, and engage in networking sessions. The event aims to connect innovative entrepreneurs with investors to foster sustainable growth in ocean-related sectors.

In the previous edition held in 2025, six entrepreneurs were recognized for their contributions to aquaculture, blue biotechnology, the circular economy, and ocean regeneration. The grand prize was awarded to STEP Tunisia for advancing fish farming technologies in North Africa.

BlueInvest Africa is organized by the European Union in partnership with the Government of South Africa, aiming to build partnerships for sustainable innovation across the continent's coastal and inland waters.