On 19–20 August 2026, the A’Pelago Initiative returns to Ruissalo Shipyard in Turku, Finland, bringing together over 300 pioneers shaping the future of the Blue Economy across the Baltic Sea and beyond.

Now in its fourth edition, the Initiative has established itself as a vital forum for those building the future of our Seas — entrepreneurs, investors, business leaders, researchers, NGOs, and innovators working at the intersection of sustainability, technology, and maritime industries.

At the heart of the event is a shared belief: change begins with people. People who recognize the deep connection between societies and the Seas and who are ready to collaborate across sectors and borders to create practical solutions.

From Ocean Literacy to Action and From Funding Gap to Solutions

The 2026 programme explores two key themes shaping the future of the Blue Economy.

Day 1 – From Ocean Literacy to Action focuses on deepening our understanding of the role Seas play in our societies, economies, security, and everyday lives. Through keynotes, panels, and interactive sessions, participants explore how awareness leads to responsibility and how responsibility turns into action through innovation, policy, and investment.

Day 2 – From Funding Gap to Innovative Solutions shifts the focus toward scaling solutions. The day addresses the critical challenge of bridging the gap between early-stage innovation and mainstream adoption. Through investor panels, sector deep dives, and the A’Pelago Pitch Challenge, startups and innovators connect with investors, corporates, ports, and public actors ready to accelerate deployment.

Across both days, discussions and venture presentations will explore sectors including:

• Marine biomaterials
• Blue Food and marine resources
• Ocean resilience
• Ocean data and technology
• Maritime solutions

Voices shaping the future of the Seas

The first confirmed speakers include leading voices from across the Blue Economy ecosystem, such as:

• Susanna Thimmig Johansen, Voice of the Ocean Foundation
• Jörgen Bergqvist, Ocean Collective
• Anna Herlin, TAH Foundation
• Lauri Reuter, Nordic Foodtech VC
• Mari Granström, Origin by Ocean
• Peter Bryant, Builders Vision
• Natalie Mangondo, GRID-Arendal
• Tuomas Riski, Triski Consulting
• James Hughes, Aether Capital Partners

The programme will be moderated by André Noël Chaker, with hosts Patrik Anckar and Timo Ketonen.

A meeting point for collaboration and impact

Held at the historic Ruissalo Shipyard, the A’Pelago Initiative is designed to create space for meaningful conversations and real collaboration. Rather than a traditional conference, it is a curated gathering where leaders from across sectors meet to exchange ideas, build partnerships, and accelerate solutions for a resilient Blue Economy.

Seats are intentionally limited to ensure high-quality interaction and networking.

Early Bird tickets available now

Early Bird tickets for A’Pelago Initiative 2026 are now available for a limited time.

Participants can choose between one-day and two-day tickets, venture booths for startups and NGOs, and group packages.

🔗 Secure your place and learn more here.

Moments from A'Pelago Initiative 2025