Success Story #6: From Global Competition to a High-Impact Blue Economy new Cohort 2026
Building on the momentum and success of its first accelerator phase, the AquaSphere Programme strengthened its international reputation during the second acceleration round, attracting even greater global interest from startups operating in the maritime, water, energy, and sustainability sectors. The second open call generated more than 60 applications from innovative companies around the world, reflecting the increasing recognition of AquaSphere as a valuable platform for high-potential Blue Economy ventures seeking to scale their technologies and advance their investment readiness.
The exceptionally competitive selection process identified startups with strong technological foundations, scalable business models, and innovative solutions capable of addressing critical challenges across maritime operations, clean energy, water management, environmental sustainability, and ocean resilience. The selected companies represent a diverse and highly specialised group of innovators developing breakthrough solutions in offshore energy, sustainable materials, algae technologies, maritime digitalisation, circular economy systems, and clean industrial processes.
The selected startups for the second accelerator phase include:
Millfield Technology ApS (DK), SITELI CW (MAR), Vessel X (TUR), Droople (CH), Mediterranean Algae (ES), Health4Crew (GR), GraphenicaLab (ES), SeaGrown (UK), Ocean Visuals (NOR), Open Hydro (UK), Slow Mill Sustainable Power B.V. (NL), TouchWind B.V.(NL), HyKin Energy ApS (DK), BlueShadow ApS (DK), Swordfish Energy Corporation(CA), Uravu Labs Pvt Ltd (IND), Atium AB (SE), SC RECYCLLUX SRL (MLT), Sansox Oy (FI)
As AquaSphere evolves, the programme is becoming a recognised catalyst for innovation-driven growth within the Blue Economy, connecting startups, investors, industry leaders, and research ecosystems around a shared vision of sustainability, resilience, and technological advancement.