Success Story #1 — AquaSphere Accelerator Program: Outstanding Response to the 2025 Cohort 1 Open Call
The AquaSphere Accelerator Program’s first Open Call exceeded expectations, attracting 42 high-quality applications from across the globe—38 from Europe and 4 from outside Europe. Proposals demonstrated strong alignment with Blue Economy priorities and showcased mature, innovation-ready solutions.
The exceptional calibre of submissions made the selection process highly competitive and confirmed the program’s relevance within the international maritime innovation ecosystem. AquaSphere’s growing visibility and credibility are reflected in the sharp interest of startups eager to scale impactful solutions for sustainable ocean and water systems.
Success Story #2 — “Navigating Blue Innovation” Bootcamp
The “Navigating Blue Innovation” Bootcamp, hosted by IZTECH on 19 November 2025, proved to be a dynamic platform for showcasing the AquaSphere project and its innovation-support tools. The event attracted undergraduate and postgraduate students, startup founders, and early-career professionals, creating an interdisciplinary environment that encouraged collaboration and fresh thinking. Early feedback highlights strong participant engagement and a growing enthusiasm for the Blue Economy and maritime innovation domains. Many attendees expressed a clear interest in pursuing entrepreneurial opportunities in water- and ocean-related technologies. Following the bootcamp, several participants committed to joining upcoming AquaSphere activities, including mentoring sessions and innovation challenges—demonstrating the event’s immediate and lasting impact.
Success Story #3 — Blue Economy Entrepreneurship: Two New Startups Emerge from AquaSphere Phase 1
AquaSphere’s commitment to supporting early-stage innovation in the Blue Economy is already yielding tangible results. During Phase 1—and in direct connection with the Accelerator Program—two new startups were officially founded. These ventures embody the project’s mission to foster maritime innovation, stimulate entrepreneurship, and translate cutting-edge ideas into viable business solutions. The creation of these startups marks a significant milestone, demonstrating AquaSphere’s capacity to catalyse new economic activity and strengthen the emerging ecosystem of Blue Economy innovators.
Success Story #4 — Integrated Digital Education Program: Surpassing Participation Targets for 2025 Cohort 1
AquaSphere’s Integrated Digital Education Program for Maritime Innovation achieved outstanding engagement during Phase 1. Participation numbers surpassed expectations, with 52 more students than the initial target of 350 enrolling in the program. This strong turnout reflects an increasing demand for high-quality digital training in Blue Economy and Μaritime Ιnnovation, as well as AquaSphere’s effectiveness in reaching and mobilising learners. By equipping students with cutting-edge knowledge and skills, the program is helping cultivate the next generation of innovators shaping a more sustainable maritime future.