Inalve, a Nice-based startup specializing in microalgae, has been awarded the Entrepreneur Prize at the 2025 Engaged for the Ocean Awards, presented by the Foundation for the Sea in partnership with Banque Transatlantique. The prize recognizes Inalve’s innovation in sustainable aquaculture and its impact on the blue economy.
Inalve’s patented microalgae cultivation technology on biofilm reduces water consumption by 80% and offers a sustainable alternative to fishmeal, improving the resilience of aquaculture farms. The startup is part of the 20 « EU Blue Champions, » a European label awarded by the European Commission and the European Investment Bank. Inalve has raised €4.7 million to scale up its industrialization.
The ceremony also honored Hélène Labach (Miraceti) for her work on cetacean conservation, Pierre Bahurel (Mercator Ocean) for his contributions to operational oceanography, and Jean-Pierre Gattuso (CNRS) for his research on climate and marine ecosystems.
Recognition for Innovation in the Blue Economy
On March 11, 2025, the Foundation for the Sea, in partnership with Banque Transatlantique, presented the Engaged for the Ocean Awards at a ceremony held at the Atelier des Lumières in Paris.
In the Entrepreneur category, the award went to Véronique Raoul, president of Inalve, a pioneering Nice-based startup in microalgae production on biofilm for more sustainable aquaculture.
The Foundation for the Sea wanted to reward Véronique Raoul for her commitment to both sustainable aquaculture and better animal nutrition. By developing a nature-based solution, Inalve is giving microalgae a prominent place in the food of tomorrow.
Founded in 2016, Inalve developed a patented process inspired by natural ecosystems that enables efficient and eco-friendly microalgae cultivation. This system reduces water consumption by 80%, maximizes light access, and produces a biomass rich in essential nutrients to strengthen the resilience of aquaculture farms. This innovation offers an alternative to fishmeal, improving the sustainability of the sector while addressing ecological transition challenges.
“We are currently focusing on aquaculture because it’s a key market to meet the need to feed 10 billion humans by 2050 without depleting the planet. With Inalve, we contribute to making this industry more productive while being more ecologically responsible in its production and distribution methods. And a more efficient aquaculture also means less fishing at sea, which helps preserve the oceans,” comments Véronique Raoul, president of Inalve.
A Startup at the Heart of the Blue Tech Movement
This recognition fits into a trajectory of success for Inalve, which was selected as one of the 20 « EU Blue Champions » by the European Commission and the European Investment Bank in 2024. The startup recently raised €4.7 million from Seventure Partners and Bpifrance to accelerate its industrialization and meet the growing market demand.
With this distinction, Inalve reaffirms its role as a driver of BlueTech and maritime innovation. The Nice Côte d’Azur Metropolis, committed to the development of the blue economy, supports these players through initiatives such as the Blue Innovation Challenge and the hosting of the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC 2025) next June.
A Strategic Lever for the Blue Economy
The blue economy is a key development focus for the Nice Côte d’Azur Metropolis, positioning it as a maritime innovation hub. The UNOC-3, an international event bringing together governments, businesses, and experts, will serve as a showcase for local startups committed to preserving marine resources and developing sustainable solutions.
By promoting microalgae as a sustainable alternative in aquaculture feed, Inalve is contributing to the development of a more resilient and responsible industry. Its model, with strong industrialization potential, opens up perspectives for other applications, including water pollution cleanup and bio-ingredients.
Source: investincotedazur
