The initiative, presented at the Antiga Fábrica Vasco da Gama in Matosinhos, is aimed at entrepreneurs, researchers, and young companies with innovative and sustainable solutions associated with the sea and its resources. The motto is "Don't stay on the sidelines. There's a place for your project in the Blue Economy."
BluAct seeks to stimulate the creation and growth of companies, bring entrepreneurs closer to the business and scientific community, and strengthen the innovation ecosystem linked to the maritime economy. The new edition continues the work developed between 2021 and 2025, a period in which the program involved 85 participants and 32 business ideas.
The competition is eligible for business projects or ideas, as well as companies established up to five years ago, provided they have a relevant impact on the Blue Economy. Proposals in areas such as water sustainability, fishing, aquaculture, bioresearch, ports, transport, shipbuilding, and marine energy are accepted.
Selection will consider criteria such as the degree of innovation, viability, market potential, sustainability, and the teams' capacity. The goal is to identify proposals with the potential to evolve from business ideas into entrepreneurial initiatives.
Participants will have access to awards, specialized mentoring, training sessions, and support in preparing business models and project presentations to investors. The program also includes contact with experts and entities within the Blue Economy ecosystem.
The sixth edition involves INDAQUA Matosinhos and Conservas Portugal Norte. After the application deadline on November 23, phases of evaluation, selection, and final project presentation to a jury will follow.
