Monaco Opens Applications for the 2026 Monaco Ocean Protection Challenge

Monaco has officially launched applications for the 2026 edition of the Monaco Ocean Protection Challenge, an international competition designed to encourage the next generation of innovators to develop practical, scalable solutions for ocean protection and the sustainable blue economy.

Open to students, recent graduates and early-stage entrepreneurs, the challenge offers participants the chance to transform bold ideas into business-ready projects — with international visibility within Monaco’s influential marine science and sustainability ecosystem.

Key 2026 Timeline

• Applications close: 13 February 2026
• Business plan submissions open: 25 February 2026
• Business plan deadline: 30 March 2026
• Finalist teams announced: mid-April 2026
• Grand Finale in Monaco: 11 June 2026

Finalist teams will be invited to Monaco for the final pitch event, with travel and accommodation covered — an invaluable opportunity to connect with decision-makers, foundations, investors and sustainability leaders based in the Principality.

Building the future of the blue economy

The Monaco Ocean Protection Challenge encourages submissions that combine entrepreneurship, environmental impact and long-term economic viability. Projects may address areas such as:

• marine biodiversity protection
• circular-economy models linked to the ocean
• responsible tourism and maritime innovation
• ocean data and technology
• pollution reduction and waste-to-resource solutions

Beyond competition, the programme acts as a launch platform for ocean-focused startups, helping participants refine strategy, strengthen business models and increase the real-world impact of their ideas.

Monaco’s leadership in ocean innovation

The challenge further reinforces Monaco’s growing role as a European hub for marine environmental action, research and blue-economy entrepreneurship — aligning closely with the Principality’s long-standing commitment to ocean protection.

With the Grand Finale taking place in Monaco on 11 June 2026, the event will bring academic teams, young founders, corporates and environmental institutions together under one shared ambition: to shape a more sustainable future for our oceans.