Ready to protect our oceans?

Who should apply

We are looking for ocean-focused innovators, worldwide, in the areas of education, turning back pollution and preserving biodiversity. Submissions are open for individuals and teams worldwide, of all ages and from all backgrounds.
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Awards Categories

Living Sea: Initiatives or innovations that protect and restore marine life, biodiversity, and marine ecosystems — including kelp forests, mangroves, plankton, corals, dolphins, turtles, and other marine species.
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Blue Circle: Circular economy and cleanup innovations or initiatives restoring the ocean’s balance from all forms of pollution. Submissions involving only clean-ups are not considered innovative.
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Wavemakers: Educators, youth and movements spreading awareness and hope. Initiatives should include innovative methods that enc
ourage change beyond lesson plans.

Eligibility
Applicants may include:
●     Project and/or products at various stages of development (idea, prototype or pilot stage)
●      Non-profit organizations, cooperatives, social enterprises, and mission-driven companies, provided that the proposed innovation or initiative demonstrably serves the public benefit
●       Existing funding should be between 0 – 30,000 EUR

Timeline
Application period will run from April 1 to August 31 2026
Notification of Bootcamp Selection Early September
Investment Readiness Bootcamp Mid September
Notification of Top 10 Selection Mid September
Final Judging Panel Late September
Notification of Top 5 Selection September 30
Awards CeremonyOctober 11
Winners will be revealed on October 11, 2026during the third OceanLove Innovation Awards Ceremony in Los Angeles

What Criteria will be used to assess my application?

Positivity – Help Spread the Message of OceanLove
Projects should inspire and promote a positive message about ocean conservation. We look for initiatives that not only address challenges but also foster hope and encourage wider public engagement with ocean love and care.

Passion and Motivation
How genuine and compelling is the team’s drive to tackle this specific ocean problem? We look for a clear “why” that shows care, urgency, and long-term commitment, something that feels personal and mission-led.

Project / Team Fit
How well-positioned is the applicant/team to deliver the project successfully? We look at relevant experience and skills, role clarity, capacity to execute, and access to the right partners, tools, or communities. Strong scores go to teams that can demonstrate they understand the problem in practice and have the expertise and structure to implement, adapt, and sustain the initiative.

Community Upliftment
Initiatives that contribute to the socio-economic betterment of local communities, especially those that rely on marine resources, are crucial. This criterion evaluates how the project empowers and improves the lives of people in these communities.

Originality
This criterion assesses the uniqueness and creativity of the initiative. Projects that introduce new ideas, approaches, or innovations in ocean conservation are highly valued. We look for initiatives that stand out for their ingenuity and original thinking.

Impact/Scalability
The potential of the initiative to make a significant and positive difference in the health and preservation of oceans without causing adverse effects on the environment or depleting natural resources. This includes both immediate results and long-term benefits to marine ecosystems and biodiversity.

Timeliness
This criterion assesses the relevance and urgency of the initiative. Projects should align with current trends, pressing needs, or windows of opportunity in ocean conservation.

Feasibility
The practicality of implementing and financially sustaining the initiative is crucial. This includes considerations of resources, time, expertise, and other factors necessary for the successful execution and maintenance of the project.