The global blue economy faces unprecedented challenges from climate change, pollution, and unsustainable resource use, demanding innovative solutions and skilled professionals. AquaSphere addresses this need by transforming how Higher Education Institutions drive innovation and entrepreneurship in maritime and water-related sectors. Led by Technical University of Crete, our consortium unites Cardiff Metropolitan University (UK), IZMIR Institute of Technology (Turkey), University of Antilles (France), Envolve Entrepreneurship (Greece) as an innovation pioneer, and TechTour (Bulgaria) an innovation and investment network, combining academic excellence with entrepreneurial expertise. Our approach centers on building lasting institutional capacity through interconnected initiatives. The Water Innovators Academy will provide training for academic and non-academic staff across two phases, equipping them with skills to drive innovation within their institutions. Complementing this, our integrated digital education program combines a MOOC with the AquaVenture entrepreneurship training, aiming to reach >1000 students with practical innovation and entrepreneurship skills focused on blue economy challenges.

To transform ideas into impact, the AquaSphere Accelerator will support 24 startups and scale-ups through intensive mentoring, technical validation, and investment readiness program. This support system aims to facilitate €500,000 in investment attraction and create at least four new ventures with significant market traction. We will establish 12 innovation support structures across partner institutions, with dedicated focus on supporting female entrepreneurs and underrepresented groups in maritime sectors.

The project’s strength lies in its holistic approach to ecosystem development. Through strategic partnerships with industry, research organizations, and public authorities, we will create 15 lasting collaborations that extend beyond the project timeline. Our digital-first approach ensures efficient resource use while maximizing accessibility and impact across participating regions. Regular peer learning events and knowledge exchange activities will foster a dynamic community of practice in blue economy innovation.

AquaSphere’s impact will ripple through multiple layers of the innovation ecosystem. Successfully trained staff will become innovation champions within their institutions, creating a cascade effect of knowledge transfer. New support structures will provide lasting frameworks for entrepreneurship support, while successful startups will inspire and mentor future entrepreneurs. The project directly contributes to key Sustainable Development Goals including Clean Water, Life Below Water, Climate Action, and Quality Education.

Looking toward 2030, we envision self-sustaining innovation ecosystems in partner regions, with transformed institutional capacity for driving blue economy innovation.

Project coordinator

Marios Antonakakis, Doctor, POLYTECHNEIO KRITIS (Technical University of Crete) (contact)