Continuum Ocean Enterprise Studio & Incubator Program

Seaworthy Collective, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, has launched the next cohort of its flagship program—the Continuum Ocean Enterprise Studio and Incubator—targeting startups in the BlueTech sector. This program is a direct result of the organization’s $14 million partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), forming part of The Continuum, a coordinated network of ocean enterprise accelerators. The initiative is designed to fast-track market readiness for ocean-related startups through a scalable, efficient, and interconnected support system. Applications are now open for the program’s sixth cohort, which will commence in August 2025. The program is designed to support startups developing ocean data technologies and services that align with NOAA's Ocean Enterprise Initiative. The initiative is focused on supporting solutions that contribute to the health and resilience of ocean environments and the economies that rely on them. The Studio and Incubator runs for a period of three months, providing tailored support to startup founders through human-centered design methodologies. Seaworthy emphasizes empathy and personal development, ensuring that each entrepreneur receives individualized guidance that addresses their specific challenges and aspirations. Participants in the program will fall into two categories: current founders who are actively building early-stage startups, and aspiring founders who will co-create a new venture in collaboration with Seaworthy. The organization plans to support five to seven existing startups and co-create one new startup per cohort. Notably, the program is entirely free for participants, with each founder receiving a NOAA-supported scholarship valued at $25,000. There are no equity requirements or financial costs associated with participation. The application process is open to U.S.-based startups only, with a specific emphasis on those aligned with NOAA’s ocean enterprise priorities. While the program does not publish a detailed list of eligibility requirements beyond this geographic and thematic restriction, it is clear that both for-profit early-stage companies and individuals intending to co-found a startup are eligible to apply. All program activities are expected to take place in alignment with Seaworthy’s broader mission to democratize access to the Blue Economy. Applications are currently open, with the program set to launch in August 2025. While no hard close date is provided on the website, the current status of the opportunity suggests active recruitment. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to ensure consideration. Additionally, entrepreneurs can subscribe to Seaworthy’s new platform, The Shoreline, for ecosystem access, educational resources, and community support. For more information, potential applicants and interested partners can reach out to the organization directly via email at Info@SeaworthyCollective.com. Those looking to support the program or learn more about partnership opportunities are encouraged to explore further engagement through Seaworthy’s website.