Europe excels in ocean technology innovation but struggles to secure venture funding. An initiative by the European Union aims to change this by helping startups gain the trust of investors.
Across Europe, startups specializing in blue technologies are pioneering new paths in ocean technologies and tackling some of the most pressing challenges, whether in renewable energy, blue biotechnology, cutting-edge port logistics, or aquaculture. With the support of European Union initiatives like BlueInvest, many of these innovators are securing the funding they need to scale up.
The Secche della Meloria Marine Protected Area off the coast of Livorno, Italy
In the Secche della Meloria Marine Protected Area, off the coast of Livorno, Italy, researchers are testing new underwater communication tools using underwater Wi-Fi. Thanks to specially adapted tablets, two marine biologists were able to stay in contact wirelessly during their dive.
Underwater Wi-Fi is different from terrestrial Wi-Fi because traditional Wi-Fi relies on high-frequency radio waves, which cannot travel far underwater, especially in saltwater. Underwater Wi-Fi, on the other hand, uses sound waves, as sound travels further in water. This allows researchers to communicate over much greater distances, similar to how marine species like dolphins and whales do.
WSense engineers deploy an underwater acoustic communication network
This technology, developed by Rome-based company WSense, allows divers to send messages, track their location in real time, and collect geolocated data, making marine research dives safer and more efficient.
WSense’s innovations have considerable potential, whether in preserving marine environments and cultural heritage sites or monitoring aquaculture and offshore energy installations. The company’s success has been bolstered by BlueInvest, a European Union program that connects ocean technology startups with investors. By winning the BlueInvest award in the Ocean Observation category, WSense became well-known and attracted a diverse network of European investors. Chiara Petrioli, founder and CEO of WSense, explains, « There is a real European dimension that makes us stronger and gives us the ambition to grow globally, leading the revolution of underwater Internet of Things. »
Underwater communication devices developed at WSense’s headquarters in Rome
Sustainable aquaculture in inland waters: Aquaponics Iberia’s « Fish n’ Greens » vision
In Torres Vedras, Portugal, Aquaponics Iberia has developed a symbiotic system where fish and plants grow together through aquaponics, a combination of inland aquaculture and hydroponics, a soil-free plant-growing process. The fish waste feeds the plants, which, in turn, purify the water for the fish. According to the company, this system uses 95% less water than conventional inland fish farming and could revolutionize the sector.
Aquaponic system developed by Aquaponics Iberia in Torres Vedras, Portugal
The startup, which raises Australian perch, a sustainable « vegetarian » fish rich in omega-3, is seeking funding to develop a modular « Fish n’ Greens » concept for urban environments. João Cotter, CEO of Aquaponics Iberia, says these centers can be adapted to different spaces and replicated in European cities to provide fresh local food to retailers, restaurants, and school canteens, while offering guided tours for school groups.
BlueInvest has played a key role in the company’s growth, helping it refine its business plan and connect with potential investors.
Students manage the aquaponic system at Fonseca Benevides School in Lisbon
Inspiring the next generation
The sustainable, easy-to-maintain circular system is not only a unique selling point but also serves an educational mission. Lisbon’s Fonseca Benevides School joined the startup’s educational project. Students manage their own aquaponic system and learn biology, chemistry, and mathematics through hands-on experience.
« I was amazed by the sustainability of this system, where plants and fish work together and complement each other, » says student Leonor Brás. The program, which complements traditional gardening methods, helps students understand the potential of sustainable food systems.
From underwater communication networks to circular aquaculture systems, European startups specializing in ocean technologies are creating promising new solutions, and programs like BlueInvest can help them grow and thrive.
Source: euronews
