Ocean and Blue Economy grants
322 listings tracked right now · page 1 of 7
Funding for ocean health, sustainable fisheries, aquaculture and the blue economy. Backed by the World Bank PROBLUE, EU EMFAF and Horizon, the Benioff and Packard foundations, and national marine programmes. Listed below are the open ocean and blue economy grant calls in that landscape, taken from each funder's own notice and re-checked on every refresh.
Water and ocean funding sits mostly with development finance and national infrastructure budgets rather than with innovation programmes. The recurring sources are the World Bank and the regional development banks, the Green Climate Fund, EU LIFE and Horizon, and national water and environment agencies. Awards tend to be tied to a specific catchment, coastline or utility, so geographic eligibility is usually the first thing to check rather than the last.
This page lists open ocean and blue economy grants currently tracked by Raise Lens — 322 of them right now, sorted with the soonest deadline first. Every listing has been classified against the sustainability taxonomy rather than matched on keywords, so what appears here is ocean and blue economy work rather than anything whose description happens to mention it.
The funders publishing ocean and blue economy grants here include DOL-ILAB, 50136030, 50135983, among 2 others. Who is funding matters as much as what: eligibility, reporting burden and the realistic timeline to a decision vary far more between funders than between individual calls.
Geographic coverage on this page spans GLOBAL, EUROPE, MENA, ASIA, SE-ASIA. Eligibility is usually tied to where the work happens or where the applying organisation is registered, and the two are not always the same — worth checking before investing time in an application.
15 of these close within the next 30 days. Deadlines are taken from the source listing and re-checked on every refresh, but the originating funder remains the authority — always confirm against the official notice before you submit.
Protecting the American Seafood Supply Chain by Countering Unfair Labor Practices and Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing
••••• organisation
This funder grant funds projects that protect the American seafood supply chain by combating unfair labor practices and illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. It targets organizations working on labor standards enforcement, supply chain transparency, and sustainable fishing practices.
Large-scale demonstration for mapping the distribution and condition of marine habitats to implement the Nature Restoration Regulation
••••• organisation
This grant funds large-scale demonstration projects to map and assess the distribution and condition of marine habitats across European waters, supporting implementation of the Nature Restoration Regulation. It targets research consortia and marine conservation organizations working on habitat monitoring, restoration planning, and ocean knowledge infrastructure.
Addressing aquatic pollution and biodiversity loss through nature positive solutions from source to sea
••••• organisation
This Horizon Europe call funds research and innovation projects addressing aquatic pollution and biodiversity loss through nature-positive solutions across freshwater and marine ecosystems, from source to sea. Eligible applicants include research institutions, universities, SMEs, and consortia developing integrated approaches to restore aquatic environments and implement EU water and marine directives.
Towards a European network of ocean technology testing sites
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This grant funds the establishment and operation of a European network of ocean technology testing sites to advance marine engineering, ocean observation, and digital twin technologies. It targets research institutions, technology providers, and marine infrastructure operators working to develop and validate innovative ocean technologies aligned with the EU's Restore our Ocean and Waters Mission.
Regional (sea-basins) components of the EU Digital Twin Ocean
••••• organisation
This grant funds the development of regional digital twin components for the EU Digital Twin Ocean, supporting ocean observation, monitoring, and operational forecasting systems across European sea-basins. Eligible applicants include research institutions, universities, consortia, and organizations working on marine environmental monitoring, ocean data integration, and AI-driven ocean forecasting to support the EU's Restore our Ocean and Waters Mission.
By fishers, for fishers: co-management of marine and freshwaters ecosystems and resources
••••• organisation
This Horizon Europe Innovation Action funds co-management approaches where fishing communities lead the restoration and sustainable management of marine and freshwater ecosystems. The grant supports multi-actor projects combining fisher knowledge, digital tools, and policy implementation to advance the EU's Ocean and Waters Mission.
Pushing the frontier of knowledge and conservation action for deep sea ecosystems
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This Horizon Europe call funds research and conservation action to advance knowledge of deep-sea ecosystems and support biodiversity protection in international waters. Eligible applicants include universities, research institutions, and consortia working on deep-sea ecology, species inventories, habitat mapping, and ecosystem-based conservation aligned with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
Toward a comprehensive assessment of the disturbance of marine ecosystems by anthropogenic underwater noise
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This grant funds comprehensive research and assessment of how anthropogenic underwater noise disturbs marine ecosystems, with up to €10 million per project available. It targets marine scientists, oceanographers, and research institutions working on marine pollution monitoring, ecosystem impacts, and ocean conservation under the EU Horizon Europe Zero Pollution initiative.
Harnessing the unique properties of marine organisms to deliver sustainable blue bio-based products
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This Horizon Europe call funds research and innovation projects that harness marine organisms and biotechnology to develop sustainable, bio-based products and solutions. It targets consortia of research institutions, SMEs, and companies working on marine biotechnology applications including bioactive compounds, enzymes, biomanufacturing, and bioprocessing.
FY 2024 – 2026 Broad Agency Announcement for marine fisheries and ocean research
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This is a Broad Agency Announcement from NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service funding research and projects related to marine fisheries, ocean ecosystems, and climate impacts on marine resources. Eligible applicants include universities, research institutions, nonprofits, and private organizations working on ocean and fisheries science.
FY 2024–2026 Broad Agency Announcement
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NOAA's Broad Agency Announcement solicits new research and project proposals aligned with NOAA's strategic priorities across ocean, atmospheric, fisheries, and environmental satellite domains. Eligible entities include universities, nonprofits, research institutions, and other organizations working on NOAA mission-aligned climate, ocean, weather, and environmental science initiatives.
FY 2024–2026 Broad Agency Announcement for Education
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NOAA's Office of Education solicits applications for special projects and programs aligned with NOAA's strategic plan and mission goals across fiscal years 2024-2026. Eligible applicants include universities, research institutions, nonprofits, and other organizations proposing education, research, or capacity-building initiatives in marine science, atmospheric science, fisheries, ocean conservation, and environmental monitoring.
FY 2024–2026 Broad Agency Announcement for oceanic, atmospheric, and climate research
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NOAA's Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research invites applications for special projects and programs aligned with NOAA's strategic plan and mission goals across fiscal years 2024–2026. Eligible applicants include universities, nonprofits, commercial organizations, governments, and individuals proposing work in oceanic, atmospheric, and climate-related research and services.
MPA Conservation Grants
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The funder awards grants to NGOs and national MPA management authorities in Mediterranean countries to improve marine protected area management effectiveness. Funding supports biodiversity conservation and ocean protection through sustainable management of marine ecosystems.
MPA Grants Programme
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Grants funding marine protected area management and marine biodiversity conservation across Mediterranean countries, awarded to NGOs and national MPA authorities. Supported by a Conservation Trust Fund model that uses investment returns to sustain long-term conservation and local livelihood outcomes.
Mangroves, Blue Carbon Markets, and 30x30 in Asia
••••• Fund
This is an open call for proposals to advance mangrove conservation, blue carbon market development, and ocean protection targets (30x30) across Asia, with €17 million in funding available. Eligible applicants can include nonprofits, research institutions, social enterprises, and consortia working on coastal ecosystem restoration, carbon finance mechanisms, and marine biodiversity.
Blue Carbon Markets and Coastal Conservation in Asia
••••• Fund
Grants up to $18.7M for projects that establish, expand, or improve marine protected areas and promote sustainable coastal livelihoods across Asia, with emphasis on mangrove conservation, blue carbon market development, and 30×30 conservation targets. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, research institutions, local authorities, and community groups working on ocean and coastal ecosystem protection.
European Partnership for a climate neutral, sustainable and productive Blue Economy
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This European Partnership call funds innovation and digital transformation in the blue economy to achieve climate neutrality and sustainability. It targets organizations developing sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, marine renewable energy, ocean conservation, and digital solutions that build economic resilience while protecting marine ecosystems.
France 2030 - PEPR GFM "Deep Sea" - Call for Projects - 2026
••••• Agency
France 2030 PEPR GFM Deep Sea call funds transdisciplinary and interdisciplinary research consortia investigating deep-sea ecosystems, marine resources, and human-ocean interactions. Eligible applicants include academic institutions, research centers, and non-academic stakeholders collaborating on natural science and social science questions related to deep-sea environments.
DARRP Restoration Implementation Grants (2026)
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DARRP Restoration Implementation Grants fund NOAA partnerships with non-federal organizations to implement marine and coastal habitat restoration projects addressing damages from oil spills, hazardous substance releases, and natural resource damage events. Eligible activities include fisheries recovery, threatened/endangered species conservation, restoration planning, monitoring, and technique development under multiple federal authorities including the Oil Pollution Act and RESTORE Act.
Pacific Biodiversity and Sustainable Land-Seascapes (Pacific BioScapes) Programme
••••• Commission
This EUR 23.4M grant supports sustainable management and conservation of marine and coastal resources in Pacific Small Island Developing States, with focus on biodiversity protection and ecosystem-based climate adaptation. It targets organizations working on coastal and marine resource management, conservation, and climate resilience in Pacific SIDS and coastal countries.
Blue Food Futures Research Grant Program
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This grant funds applied research on blue foods (aquatic food systems) conducted by fellows working with policymakers and industry to generate evidence for climate, food security, and sustainability policy. It targets researchers at any career stage who can commit 10 hours/week for six months and produce policy-relevant outputs.
Fisheries and Ecosystem Based Management for the Blue Economy of the Mediterranean (FishEBM MED)
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This grant funds capacity-building and ecosystem-based fisheries management tools for Mediterranean countries to reverse overfishing and support sustainable blue economy development. It targets government and regional institutions managing marine resources and living fisheries.
Tanzania National Plastic Action Plan (TZ-NPAP)
••••• Programme
The Tanzania National Plastic Action Plan is a UNDP-funded initiative partnering with the World Economic Forum's Global Plastic Action Partnership to tackle plastic pollution through circular economy solutions. It brings together governments, businesses, civil society, and innovators to address plastic pollution in rivers, deltas, and oceans via policy reform, finance unlocking, behavior change, innovation, metrics harmonization, and inclusive engagement.
COSME for Women in coastal regions of Kenya
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This grant funds nature-based solutions and livelihood resilience for women in Kenya's blue economy, focusing on mangrove farming, seaweed production, conservation agriculture, and climate adaptation in coastal Kwale and Kilifi counties. It targets over 48,000 direct participants (24,000+ women and girls) with training, equipment, and knowledge support for sustainable coastal management.
Strengthening Marine Law Enforcement in the Eastern Tropical Pacific
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This grant funds strengthening marine law enforcement and surveillance capacity in the Eastern Tropical Pacific Ocean to protect and sustainably manage marine resources. It targets national marine authorities and coastal communities, with explicit focus on women, Indigenous Peoples, and Afro-descendants across six Latin American countries.
National Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program (BREP) - FY2026/27
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This NOAA grant funds engineering research and development to reduce bycatch in commercial fishing operations, protecting marine species and ecosystems. It is open to research institutions, universities, and organizations developing technological solutions to minimize unintended catch of non-target marine life.
Coastal Eco-Resilience: Resilient and Climate-Adapted Coastal Communities
••••• Commission
This grant funds climate adaptation and environmental governance initiatives in coastal communities of Sucre state, Venezuela, focusing on building resilience to climate change and sustainable marine-coastal ecosystem management. It targets inclusive socioeconomic development through local capacity-building, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable resource use in three municipalities.
Enhancing Ecosystem and Coastal Protection in the Caribbean
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This grant funds ecosystem and coastal protection projects across seven Caribbean nations, focusing on coral reef restoration, marine management, and climate resilience for coastal communities. It supports participatory frameworks, scientific mapping, restoration implementation, capacity-building, and regional partnerships to protect biodiversity and sustain ecosystem services against tropical storms and erosion.
Kwale - Tanga Coast - Transboundary conservation and sustainable management of coastal and marine biodiversity
••••• organisation
This grant funds transboundary marine and coastal biodiversity conservation in the Kwale-Tanga region through participatory management, community engagement, and sustainable resource use. It supports government agencies and local communities to establish and govern protected areas while building awareness of ecosystem services and sustainable management practices.
Innovative technologies and solutions to improve wave and tidal energy systems
••••• organisation
This Horizon Europe call funds innovative technologies and solutions to improve wave and tidal energy systems, supporting the development and deployment of next-generation marine renewable energy technologies. Eligible applicants include research institutions, universities, companies, and consortia across EU member states and associated countries.
Innovative Solutions for mitigating the environmental impact of waterborne transport in marine and aquatic Ecosystems
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This Horizon Europe call funds innovative research and development projects to reduce the environmental impact of waterborne transport in marine and aquatic ecosystems, supporting up to €7,000,000 per project. It targets consortia developing technological, operational, and systemic solutions for sustainable shipping and maritime transport.
SVG: Coastal and Marine Ecosystems Management Strengthening Project
••••• organisation
This grant funds strengthening coastal and marine ecosystem management in St. Vincent and the Grenadines through conservation, biodiversity protection, and site preservation initiatives. It targets government agencies, environmental organizations, and local institutions working on marine resource management and ecosystem protection in the Caribbean.
Deep-sea Fisheries under the Ecosystem Approach (DSF project)
••••• organisation
This grant funds ecosystem-based management of deep-sea fisheries in international waters, with emphasis on sustainable yields, biodiversity protection, and vulnerable marine ecosystems. It targets governments, research institutions, and conservation organizations working on data-limited stocks and deepwater shark protection.
Sustainable management of tuna fisheries and biodiversity conservation in the areas beyond national jurisdiction.
••••• organisation
This grant funds sustainable tuna fishery management and biodiversity conservation in areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ), addressing responsible harvesting and ecosystem protection in the face of climate change. It targets international consortia, governments, NGOs, and research institutions working on ocean governance and marine resource stewardship.
Global Coordination Project for the Common Oceans ABNJ Program
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This grant funds coordination and capacity-building activities to maximize the effectiveness and sustainability of GEF-7 investments in ocean conservation and biodiversity protection in Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (ABNJ). It supports global coordination mechanisms for the Common Oceans ABNJ program, targeting multilateral environmental governance and marine ecosystem protection.
Enabling Blue Carbon in Indonesia
••••• organisation
This grant supports the Government of Indonesia in integrating blue carbon ecosystems (mangroves, seagrasses, tidal marshes) into national climate and development strategies, including positioning blue carbon in Indonesia's NDC and MRV systems. Direct beneficiaries are 1,000+ policymakers; indirect beneficiaries are coastal communities, particularly women, youth, and vulnerable populations.
Green, circular and resilient harbours
••••• organisation
This grant funds projects to develop green, circular, and resilient harbour infrastructure and operations, supporting the EU's Ocean and Waters Mission. Eligible applicants include port authorities, maritime operators, research institutions, and consortia working on sustainable port transformation, coastal adaptation, and marine ecosystem restoration.
Large-scale demonstration of protection, restoration and management of blue forest ecosystems in European sea basins
••••• organisation
This grant funds large-scale demonstration projects for protecting, restoring, and managing blue forest ecosystems (seagrass, kelp, mangrove) across European sea basins, with awards of €3.5–€3.975 million per project. It targets consortia implementing nature-based solutions aligned with the EU's Restore our Ocean and Waters Mission, combining marine conservation with climate adaptation and community engagement.
Towards community-driven business models: coastal and freshwaters sustainable tourism
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This Horizon Europe Innovation Action funds community-driven business models for sustainable tourism in coastal and freshwater environments, supporting the Restore our Ocean and Waters Mission. It targets projects that combine marine/freshwater ecosystem protection with inclusive, locally-led tourism enterprises.
Circularity of seafood supply chain
••••• organisation
This Horizon Europe Innovation Action funds projects advancing circular economy principles in seafood supply chains, including aquaculture, fisheries, processing, and waste valorization. It targets consortia developing bioproducts, biomaterials, and systemic circularity solutions aligned with the EU's Restore our Ocean and Waters Mission.
Improving biomass flows for a sustainable and circular bioeconomy
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This Horizon Europe call funds research and innovation projects to improve biomass resource flows and develop circular bioeconomy solutions, supporting sustainable use of biological materials across value chains. Eligible applicants include universities, research institutions, SMEs, large companies, and consortia across EU member states and associated countries.
Living labs driving transformative change via knowledge integration and inclusive governance
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This Horizon Europe call funds research and innovation projects that use living labs to drive transformative change through knowledge integration, inclusive governance, and nature-based solutions in biodiversity conservation and circular economy. Projects must adopt multi-actor approaches, integrate digital tools and AI, and address EU biodiversity strategy priorities including ocean health and marine litter reduction.
Unlocking a safe operating space for Antarctica and the Southern Ocean
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This Horizon Europe research call funds projects investigating safe operating limits and governance frameworks for Antarctica and the Southern Ocean in the context of climate change, ocean dynamics, and polar ecosystems. It targets research institutions and consortia working on polar science, ocean observation, climate impacts, and international ocean governance.
Unleashing the potential of sustainable small-scale aquatic food production and recreational fisheries for prosperous local communities
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This grant funds sustainable small-scale aquaculture, recreational fisheries, and aquatic food production projects that strengthen local communities and livelihoods. It supports innovation in areas like urban aquaculture, mollusk farming, ecosystem-based management, and capacity-building to improve market access and social outcomes in Mediterranean and other regions.
Caribbean Organizations for a Resilient Environment (CORE)
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This grant funds small- to medium-sized environmental and women's rights organizations across eight Caribbean countries to implement nature-based climate adaptation and mitigation solutions in ecosystems like mangroves, coral reefs, and forests. It also supports institutional capacity-building and innovative climate financing mechanisms to strengthen long-term community resilience.
Conservation of Atoll Ecosystems through an effectively managed national protected area Estate (CATENATE)
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This grant funds the establishment and management of a resilient network of protected and conserved areas in the Maldives to safeguard coral reef biodiversity and associated atoll ecosystems. It targets national governments and conservation organizations working to implement effective marine protected area governance and ecosystem resilience.
Building and Enhancing Sectoral and Cross-sectoral capacity to support sustainable resource use and biodiversity conservation in marine areas beyond national jurisdiction
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This grant funds capacity-building and awareness initiatives to strengthen governance and cross-sectoral coordination for sustainable resource use and biodiversity conservation in marine areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ). It targets organizations working on ocean conservation, marine governance, and international environmental coordination.