OceanFest

Explore the Ocean of Opportunities for Blue Economy Innovation
July 10th, 2025

Make waves in the ocean economy

Our water systems, including oceans, rivers, and lakes, are vital to the health of our planet, our economies, and our communities. OceanFest is your gateway to discovering how innovation can sustainably shape the future of our oceans. 

About OceanFest
Who should attend?
What to expect?
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OceanFest 2025 Agenda

July 10

1:00 PM

OceanFest

Welcome to OceanFest!

Executive Director
Ocean Startup Project
Director of Marketing and Communications
Ocean Startup Project

1:10 PM

OceanFest

Catalyzing the Blue Economy: Innovation at the Intersection of Climate and Ocean Tech

Climate action and the growth of the sustainable ocean economy are deeply interconnected. This session will explore how cutting-edge technologies and innovative approaches are driving progress at the intersection of these two critical fields. From carbon capture, utilization and storage to renewable energy and beyond, learn how ocean tech can address climate challenges while unlocking new opportunities for sustainable growth. Join us to discover how innovation is shaping a future where the health of our oceans and sustainable economic growth go hand in hand. See More.

1:25 PM

OceanFest

Stronger Together: How Big Companies and Startups Unlock Mutual Success in the Ocean Economy

Collaboration between established companies and agile startups is a powerful driver of innovation. This session will explore how these partnerships create win-win outcomes, from accelerating R&D to solving complex challenges and opening new markets. Featuring insights from successful partnerships, panellists will share their experiences, lessons learned, and strategies for building impactful partnerships. Whether you’re a startup looking to scale or a corporate leader seeking fresh ideas, this discussion will inspire you to think differently about collaboration and its potential to transform the ocean economy. See More.

2:05 PM

OceanFest

Ocean vs. Space: The Next Frontier for Innovation

Oceans and space represent two of humanity’s most exciting and challenging frontiers. But which holds the greatest potential for innovation, investment, and impact? In this session, we’ll pit space against oceans in a lively debate, exploring the biggest opportunities, challenges, and synergies between these sectors. From satellite monitoring of ocean health to deep-sea robotics inspired by space exploration, discover how cutting-edge technologies are bridging these two worlds. Join us to hear from leading experts, uncover cross-sector collaborations, and decide which frontier will shape the future of our planet and beyond. See More.
Lead
Cycle H2O Water Fund
CTO
Whale Seeker

3:00 PM

OceanFest

Startup Showcase

The Ocean Startup Showcase is an opportunity to connect with industry leaders, investors, government funders, and entrepreneurs as we shine a spotlight on some of the most innovative ocean technology startups in Canada. We will feature rapid-fire pitches from emerging ocean companies, sparking meaningful conversations and networking opportunities among attendees. See More.

3:40 PM

OceanFest

Innovating for a Sustainable Blue Economy: Leadership in Action

As OceanFest draws to a close, join us for an inspiring keynote highlighting the power of leadership and innovation in shaping a sustainable ocean economy. Learn insights into how bold vision, collaboration, and cutting-edge solutions are driving transformative change in ocean industries. From tackling global challenges to unlocking new economic opportunities, this session will leave you energized and ready to take action. See More.

3:55 PM

OceanFest

That's a wrap!

2025 OceanFest speakers

Simon Olivier

Lead, Cycle H2O Water Fund

Antoine Gagné-Turcotte

CTO, Whale Seeker

Amanda Horn

Director of Marketing and Communications, Ocean Startup Project

Paula Mendonça

Executive Director, Ocean Startup Project

Partners & Sponsors

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