Demonstration Area
Showcasing Ocean & Maritime Solutions at the Blue Investment Challenge
12 May 2026 | Ayia Napa Marina, Cyprus
Official Event of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union
Background
As part of the official programme of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union, the Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute (CMMI) and the ERATOSTHENES Centre of Excellence are organising the Ocean Science to Policy Conference on 11–12 May 2026.
While Day 1 (11 May) focuses on Ocean Science to Policy dialogue, Day 2 (12 May) is fully dedicated to:
Transforming “Made in EU” Blue Innovation into Market-Ready Solutions – The Blue Investment Challenge.
Day 2 is designed to bridge Ocean R&D to market, with a strong focus on blue innovation deployment, investment readiness, SME and scale-up support, and real-world demonstration of European ocean and maritime solutions.
Purpose of the Call
This Call for Expressions of Interest invites SMEs, start-ups, scale-ups, research spin-offs, and solution providers to showcase innovative ocean and maritime solutions during Day 2 of the Conference.
Who Should Apply
- Blue economy SMEs and scale-ups
- Start-ups and technology providers
- Research-based spin-offs
- Industry–research consortia with deployable solutions
What Selected Participants Can Expect
- Showcasing at Ayia Napa Marina
- Engagement with investors, policymakers, and end-users
- Participation in matchmaking and networking activities
- Clustering within challenge-driven thematic areas
Thematic Challenge Groupings
- Tackling Marine Pollution & Ocean Health
- Climate Action at Sea: Decarbonisation, Adaptation & Resilience
- Safe, Secure & Well-Governed Seas
- Knowledge to Action: Observing, Understanding & Managing the Ocean (from Sky to Seafloor)
Selection Principles
Relevance, maturity, deployment potential, investment relevance, thematic coherence, and geographical balance.
Practical Information
Participation is free of charge. Travel and accommodation costs are borne by participants.
Submission Deadline: 25 April 2026
How to Apply
Expressions of interest must be submitted via the online form.
I want to submit an expression of interest to participate in the demonstration area: