Agenda

• 5:30 PM - 6:00 PM: Opening Networking

• 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Welcome Remarks and Startup Pitches

• 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Closing Networking

In partnership with URI Research Foundation, SeaAhead and the New England Aquarium are excited to introduce BlueSwell Cohort V to the Ocean State's rich blue ecosystem. Please join us in person at District Hall (CIC Providence, 225 Dyer St.) to hear pitches from eight groundbreaking bluetech startups, followed by refreshments and conversation.

Questions? Reach out to blueswell@sea-ahead.com.

Looking for parking? Check out this Parkopedia map for options around CIC Providence, 225 Dyer St.

Join SeaAhead and the New England Aquarium in welcoming the BlueSwell Program's fifth cohort.

Please join us at CIC Cambridge (245 Main St.) to celebrate the start of BlueSwell Cohort V.

This in-person event is a unique opportunity to meet the founders behind this year's groundbreaking startups. We'll begin the evening with brief presentations from the cohort members, followed by refreshments and conversation.

Interested in mentoring a BlueSwell startup this year? Don't miss this event! Meet the Cohort serves to help prospective mentors get acquainted with Cohort V, kicking off our mentor-matching process. Learn more about BlueSwell mentorship here.

We couldn't be more excited to introduce you to Cohort V and welcome them to the program with you all.

Questions? Reach out to blueswell@sea-ahead.com.

Looking for parking? Check out this map for parking around CIC Cambridge 245 Main St.

Join us for a panel and reception focused on coastal resilience and the potential for innovation to support robust coastal ecosystems, industries, communities, and investment returns. A panel of leading industry, government and scientific experts will share their experience and insights.

Panelists:

• Brian Swett, Chief Climate Officer, City of Boston

• Charlie Sidoti, Executive Director, InnSure

• Jane Steinmetz, Boston Office Managing Principal, Ernst & Young

Moderator:

• John Mandelman, PhD, Vice President and Chief Scientist, Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, New England Aquarium

HOT TOPIC ALERT: Marine Carbon Dioxide Removal: What is it, and what do investors, entrepreneurs, and experts need to know about this emerging sector? Join SeaAhead and the New England Aquarium for a webinar panel discussion exploring the current state of marine carbon dioxide removal and areas where innovation and investment can push this sector forward while preserving, protecting, and restoring the health of our ocean ecosystems.

Webinar speakers:

• Luke Sawitsky, Principal at Sea Ahead

• Dr. Jenni Chow, Marine Species Conservation Program Manager, New England Aquarium

We started BlueSwell because we believe that bluetech ventures have substantial potential for impact and that encouraging this type of innovation requires a dedicated and focused support infrastructure. Through the program, we’ve focused on building the capacity of these inspirational founders to convert their big ocean-focused concepts into profitable and sustainable businesses by bridging a gap of funding and mentorship.

On Demo Day, you’ll meet five startups pitching their business ideas with a mission to make real impact on ocean Sustainability. You'll get to hear all about the progress they’ve made since September, talking to customers, refining their products, planning pilots – and of course, fundraising!

After nearly four years of engaging in the Mississippi Gulf Coast, SeaAhead has developed relationships with many local partners, particularly in New Orleans. This has opened new opportunities to do meaningful work in the region as it relates to coastal and climate resilience.

We fell in love with New Orleans and wanted to bring a piece of it to Boston. We hope you’ll join us for an evening of celebration Mardi Gras-style. We'll also hear from startup founders in BlueSwell Cohort IV, who will share how their companies offer new and promising approaches to coastal and climate resilience.

Join Mystic Seaport Museum and Blue Venture Forum on September 28th for a special program, The Future of Blue Technology. This new collaboration will highlight experts in the rapidly growing arena of blue technology, offering insights into sustainable economic growth opportunities in our region.

The program includes a panel discussion, flash-talks, on-the-water demonstrations on the Mystic River, and a networking reception. Leadership from New England based incubators, investors, and founders will discuss the future of blue technology and blue economy, including SAAB, GreenWave, Thayer Mahan, SeaTrac, JAIA, and others.

There are many reasons to believe the ocean is the next economic frontier. Innovation and investment are two sides of the coin that is galvanizing economic activity in the ocean. To help meet the growing global demand for more energy, greater efficiency, resilient supply chains, and other expanded commercial opportunities, the future of the blue economy is crucial.

The need to better understand our oceans, so that we can more effectively manage, protect, and use ocean resources is driving a new wave of BlueTech startups.  These startups are developing innovative new products, methodologies, and systems for commercial, governmental, and defense customers. Join us for a fascinating evening!