A'Pelago Strategic Partner

Introduction 

Åbo Akademi University is the Swedish-language multidisciplinary academic university in Finland. We contribute to society through general learning, education, and new scientific knowledge. With deep roots in the Baltic Sea region and the Nordic Seas, the university combines academic excellence with close engagement with society to address complex global challenges, including those related to marine environments and the Blue Economy. 

A key strength is the Centre for Sustainable Ocean Science (SoS), which serves as an interdisciplinary hub for marine research and innovation, advancing sustainable solutions for ocean and coastal regions specifically related to marine biodiversity.

What is Åbo Akademi University’s mission and your unique approach to reclaim the sea regions?

Åbo Akademi University’s mission is to generate knowledge for a sustainable future through high-quality research and education. Our approach to reclaiming sea regions is rooted in interdisciplinary collaboration, where insights from business, environmental sciences, law, and social sciences are combined to develop holistic and scalable solutions.

We emphasise sustainability, inclusiveness, and long-term impact, as well as exploring how economic activity in marine environments can be aligned with ecological resilience and societal well-being. By integrating research on marine ecology, governance, innovation, and responsible business practices, we aim to contribute to the regeneration and sustainable use of sea regions.

What does the A’Pelago Ecosystem enable for Åbo Akademi University?

The A’Pelago ecosystem provides Åbo Akademi University with a dynamic platform for collaboration, co-creation, and real-world impact. It enables our researchers and students to engage directly with industry actors, policymakers, and entrepreneurs working within the Blue Economy. In turn, Åbo Akademi University connects the A’Pelago ecosystem with cutting-edge interdisciplinary research, strengthening the ecosystem’s ability to address complex sustainability challenges in marine and coastal environments.

Through A’Pelago, we gain valuable opportunities to test research ideas in practice, contribute to innovation processes, and ensure that our work remains relevant and impactful. The ecosystem also strengthens our ability to attract talent and build international partnerships focused on sustainable marine development.

How does Åbo Akademi University collaborate with A’Pelago to drive innovation in the Blue Economy? What specific services does Åbo Akademi University provide to A’Pelago stakeholders to support the development of sustainable business solutions and financing opportunities?

Åbo Akademi University collaborates with A’Pelago by contributing research-based knowledge, facilitating interdisciplinary dialogue, and supporting innovation processes within the Blue Economy. We actively participate in joint projects, workshops, and ecosystem activities that bring together academia and practice.

For A’Pelago stakeholders, Åbo Akademi University provides:

• Access to the Centre for Sustainable Ocean Science and its Sea Hub research network, providing interdisciplinary expertise on marine ecosystems, ocean sustainability, and science-based solutions for the Blue Economy

• Research expertise in areas such as marine biodiversity and ecosystems, sustainable business models, environmental governance, and international business

• Education and talent development, including student projects, internships, and thesis projects

• Advisory support related to business development, strategy, and impact assessment

We at A’Pelago are thrilled to continue our fruitful collaboration with Åbo Akademi and SOS and look forward to the exciting future possibilities this collaboration will bring to the A'Pelago ecosystem. Would you like to connect with the partner? Don’t hesitate to contact them or drop a message through their website: https://www.abo.fi/fi/