The fourth OIC call for proposals was launched on 17 July 2023 and closed on 28 August 2023, targeting the blue economy exclusively in SIDS and coastal LDCs. With a strict online screening process during the online application stage and manual vetting of applicants’ eligibility, it received 35 eligible proposals, from which 13 exceptional innovators were selected and officially launched on 28 May 2024 during the 4th UN SIDS Conference. Due to the availability of financial resources, two additional innovators were screened and selected to join this cohort.

In their six-month journey with the OIC, the 15 Cohort 4 innovators demonstrated fresh"thinking and novel approaches to building a healthier and more resilient ocean, directly benefiting vulnerable Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and coastal Least Developing Countries (LDCs) in line with SDG 14.7. Their innovative solutions span various areas, from tackling waste and seaweed farming to enhancing community-based ecotourism and empowering coastal communities, stimulating socio-economic growth while protecting vital marine ecosystems. Increased involvement from communities and local stakeholders resulted in the direct impact of these pilot initiatives on coastal community livelihoods. Cohort 4 innovators received a smaller budget than previous cohorts of innovators, comprising US$40,000 for a six-month pilot. Their innovations have a significant impact on the livelihoods of coastal communities, despite limitations on project scale due to budget constraints. These exceptionally committed innovators have achieved remarkable results despite facing challenges such as limited infrastructure, bureaucratic hurdles, and the 'Global Super Year of Elections.'

Watch the launch video

Cohort 4 innovators tackled challenges like sargassum, seaweed farming, and community-based ecotourism, using underwater robots to restore and empower coastal communities. Read the summary of Cohort 4's achievements.