About This Opportunity

The OceanLove Innovation Award is a UN-endorsed global competition now in its third annual edition, inviting innovators worldwide to submit early-stage ideas that protect, restore, or sustain our oceans in line with SDG 14 — Life Below Water. Past editions drew applicants from 38 countries with African innovators among the finalists. The 2026 award offers up to €10,000 in seed funding, a mentorship bootcamp for the Top 30 finalists, and an award ceremony in Los Angeles. You do not need a finished product — an early-stage idea is enough to apply.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Open to solo innovators, students, researchers, small teams, NGOs, nonprofits, and early-stage startups from any country
  • Your idea or project must address SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and have raised less than €30,000 in prior funding
  • Must be able to participate in the online bootcamp if selected as a Top 30 finalist
  • No restrictions on academic background, nationality, or financial capacity

What You Get / Benefits

  • Up to €10,000 in seed funding for the winning idea
  • Placement in the Top 30 online bootcamp — coaching and mentorship from global ocean experts
  • Global recognition including media exposure and UN Ocean Decade visibility
  • Invitation to the award ceremony in Los Angeles
  • Special Ambassador status for the overall winner
  • Access to OceanLove's global network of scientists, NGOs, and ocean conservation partners

How to Apply

  • Visit the official application page on F6S at the link below
  • Create or log into your F6S account
  • Complete the application form with details about your ocean-focused idea
  • Submit before September 30, 2026 — no extensions will be granted

    • Tips

    • Your idea does not need to be technical — campaigns, community tools, policy initiatives, and awareness projects have all made the Top 30 in previous editions.
    • In your application, be specific about the ocean problem you are addressing and how your idea creates measurable impact — the judges assess Innovation, Feasibility, and Community Sustainability.
    • African applicants have consistently reached the finals — this award actively values ideas from the Global South. Do not undersell your context.

    ⏰ Deadline: September 30, 2026. No extensions. Apply now at the link above.

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