OceanHub Africa is now accepting applications for its 2026/27 Acceleration Program, a flagship initiative supporting Africa’s most promising startups building solutions that protect, restore, and sustainably use ocean resources.

Designed for ambitious, for-profit ventures, this program goes beyond traditional acceleration. OceanHub Africa acts as a long-term strategic partner—helping founders reduce risk, strengthen their business models, access capital, and scale impact across the Blue Economy.

About OceanHub Africa

OceanHub Africa is the continent’s leading enabler of ocean-impact entrepreneurship, dedicated exclusively to supporting startups that deliver measurable environmental impact while remaining financially viable.

Since launch, companies in the OceanHub Africa portfolio have collectively raised over USD 15.5 million, demonstrating strong market confidence in ocean-positive innovation.

Focus Areas

The program supports ventures addressing critical challenges across the Blue Economy, including:

• Sustainable Blue Food systems

• Clean Ocean and Marine Energy

• Pollution prevention and waste reduction solutions

• Low-carbon transport, shipping, and port infrastructure

About the Acceleration Program

The OceanHub Africa Acceleration Program runs for up to 12 months and supports up to 24 high-potential startups per cohort. Both pre-revenue and post-revenue companies are eligible, provided they have a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) or are close to launch.

Two intakes are hosted each year:

• March intake (longer acceleration track)

• July intake (shorter acceleration track)

Program Format

The program follows a hybrid model, combining in-person engagement with remote support to maximize flexibility while maintaining depth.

Key components include:

• One-week in-person bootcamp (mandatory; accommodation and meals covered)

• Ongoing remote mentorship, coaching, and expert sessions

• Participation in the Ocean Innovation Africa Summit, including pitching opportunities for graduating startups

Program Phases

Phase 1: Pathway to Readiness
Startups refine their business fundamentals, strengthen go-to-market strategies, and prepare for engagement with investors and partners. This phase includes the in-person bootcamp and concludes with a BlueTech Showcase.
Following this phase, a performance assessment determines which startups advance.

Phase 2: Bridge to Opportunities
Up to 12 startups progress to this advanced phase, focused on visibility, partnerships, and investor engagement. Participants receive curated introductions through OceanHub Africa’s digital dealroom and may become eligible for additional financial support.

What Selected Startups Gain

• Tailored mentorship from Entrepreneurs-in-Residence and sector experts

• Hands-on support in sales, product development, communications, and business growth

• Access to a global network of ocean experts, corporates, alumni, and impact investors

• One-on-one personal development coaching in partnership with the University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business

• Strategic fundraising preparation, including pitch training and deal structuring support

• Eligibility for post-program opportunities with international partners such as Katapult Ocean

Selection Criteria

Applications are evaluated based on four core pillars:

1. Impact & Vision – strength and depth of environmental impact

2. Business Model – scalability, traction, and market opportunity

3. Technology – innovation, reliability, and IP position

4. Team – capability, commitment, and execution capacity

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached to apply for this opportunity.