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A’Pelago drives the blue economy in Finland and the Baltic Sea region, accelerating science-based business solutions. The blue economy refers to sustainable, sea-related business activities that restore marine ecosystems while fostering economic growth and creating new jobs.
During the two-day event from 20-21 August, two capital investment funds for the blue economy will be announced: Redstone Blue Fund I, targeting start-ups in the Baltic Sea region, and BluKap.vc, a global Series A fund for companies in the growth phase.
A'Pelago Initiative is a cross-sector business forum focused on practical, scalable solutions for the blue economy. The program features 30 high-level speakers, in-depth panel discussions, hands-on workshops and pitch sessions from emerging ventures. In addition to the main program, participants can join the Initiative dinner to connect informally over live archipelago music.
Day one will feature keynotes, panels and workshops on topics including maritime decarbonization, blue tech and regional innovation. The second day will shift focus to investment and entrepreneurship, bringing together over 50 investors and more than 25 start-ups for panels, fund launches, and the A’Pelago Pitch Challenge, where ventures compete for a €25,000 prize.
The Ocean Starts Here
The Baltic Sea region stands at a turning point. Environmental pressures demand new models for collaboration between business, science, policy and impact investing. “We see the Initiative as a platform for those who are not only concerned about the state of the sea, but who are also ready to act,” said event producer and business partner at A'Pelago, Sini Toivonen, in a press release.
The Ocean Starts Here is both a reminder and a rallying cry. “The shallow and sensitive Baltic Sea can serve as a testing ground for the world’s oceans – its unique characteristics make it an ideal place to pilot new solutions that support sustainability and marine ecosystem regeneration. That’s why models developed here have the potential to benefit seas globally. Everyone with a connection to the sea – whether through work or leisure – shares a responsibility for its future. A healthy sea begins with all of us,” added Alina Sippolainen, blue economy and ecosystem advisor at A’Pelago.
