Applications are now open for the UNIDO–WTCA Blue Economy Global Call 2026, an international innovation competition designed to identify and accelerate high-impact solutions that promote sustainable and inclusive growth across the blue economy.

Organized by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) ITPO Italy in partnership with the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA), the initiative supports innovators developing practical technologies and business models that address environmental, economic, and social challenges linked to oceans, seas, rivers, and coastal ecosystems.

Successful applicants will gain access to an international acceleration programme, expert mentoring, investment opportunities, and global business networks to help scale their solutions.

Programme Categories

Applications are invited for innovations in one or two of the following priority areas:

• Blue renewable energy
• Sustainable blue food systems
• Green maritime transport and smart ports
• Coastal and marine tourism
• Sea, lake, and river restoration
• Blue technology and marine biotechnology

Additionally, shortlisted applicants may be featured during investor demo days and included in investment portfolios presented to development partners, venture capital firms, financial institutions, and philanthropic organizations.

Who Can Apply?

The competition welcomes applications from:

• Startups
• Micro, small, medium, and large enterprises
• Universities and research institutions
• Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
• Public-private partnership initiatives
• Foundations working in business innovation or international development

Applications are encouraged from organizations at various stages of development, including early-stage innovations, pilot projects, and technologies ready for scaling.

Special consideration will be given to:

• Women-led initiatives
• Youth-led ventures
• Solutions designed for developing countries
• Projects benefiting Small Island Developing States (SIDS)

Evaluation Criteria

Applications will be assessed based on:

• Level of innovation
• Technical maturity
• Environmental, social, and economic impact
• Scalability across different regions
• Employment creation potential
• Financial sustainability
• Strength and capability of the project team

Competition Timeline

• Applications Open: 20 April 2026
• Application Deadline: 19 July 2026
• Evaluation Period: July 2026
• Award Ceremony and Innovation Showcase: 1 October 2026 in Rome, Italy