Our Ocean, Our Investment: Unlocking Finance and Innovation for a Blue Future
A Blue Zone Side Event at the UN Ocean Conference 2025
Innovative finance is key to unlocking ocean solutions that are both sustainable and inclusive. This session brings together leaders from the UNDP Ocean Innovation Challenge, the PVBLIC Foundation, and the Development Bank for Resilient Prosperity (DBRP) to explore how new financing models—like blended finance, media-for-impact, and nature-based investments—are driving real change in coastal communities and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). With a focus on scalable solutions and strategic partnerships, the conversation will highlight proven innovations that are protecting marine ecosystems, advancing blue economies, and bridging critical funding gaps.
Objective of the Panel Discussion:
This session will convene innovators representing a diverse group of stakeholders, private capital representatives, development finance institutions (DFIs), government officials, and development partners to explore innovative, scalable financing solutions for ocean sustainability. It aims to:
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Highlight successful innovative ocean solutions, the financial challenges they face, and opportunities for sustainable funding.
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Explore how blended finance, impact investing, and digital solutions can mobilize sustainable capital.
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Identify pathways to increase the "bankability" of ocean solutions and maximize replication potential.
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Foster new partnerships between innovators, funders, and policymakers.
Join UNDP Ocean Innovator Alumni, Surrey Space Centre, Fundación Mare Nostrum, Fundación Onesea, Sustainable Fisheries Partnership, IPNLF, Ficosterra, and The Leatherback Project—alongside private capital leaders, development finance institutions (DFIs), government officials, and development partners—for a dynamic exchange of ideas and collaboration toward a sustainable ocean future.
