We are the Ocean

A'Pelago Initiative 2026 - August 19–20, Turku

Blue economy pioneers across the Baltic Sea and beyond – welcome to

Our 4th A'Pelago Initiative:
A vital forum for Blue Economy builders

In 2025, we gathered around the theme “The Ocean Starts Here.” It reminded us that we share one Ocean — connected, borderless, and alive. Every river, bay, and sea is part of the same whole. No sea can be restored in isolation; collaboration is the only way forward.

For many in the A’Pelago Ecosystem, the Ocean indeed starts here — in the Finnish Archipelago of the Baltic Sea. This Sea serves as a living laboratory for innovation. Its shallow waters reveal problems early, making it the perfect testbed for global solutions that can revive seas everywhere.

“The Ocean Starts Here” was also a call to action: to join forces, to see the Baltic Sea not as a challenge, but as an opportunity — a Sea full of ideas, entrepreneurship, and life.

Now, as we return for our fourth A’Pelago Initiative, the theme evolves to “We Are the Ocean.”

It begins with us — people who care, connect, and create. We are part of the same ecosystem, sharing responsibility, curiosity, and courage to build a better future for our Seas.

On August 20–21, 2026, dedicated entrepreneurs, business leaders, investors, researchers, NGOs, decision-makers, and specialists will once again gather to accelerate the Blue Economy. Over two dynamic days, we will put Finland’s coastal regions and islands on the world map of Blue Economy innovation.

Join us for the A’Pelago Initiative 2026.
Be part of the movement, because We Are the Ocean.

Early Bird tickets available here.

About A'Pelago Initiative

Baltic Sea region’s leading annual Blue Economy forum

The A'Pelago Initiative is a Blue Economy event based in Finland, designed for people who want to meet, learn, and collaborate with founders, experts, and investors who are taking initiative to reclaim the sea in the Blue Economy field.

Since our first event in 2023, more than 840 founders, researchers, experts, and investors have shared insights, initiated collaborations, and exchanged ideas to reclaim the seas.

Moderator

André Noël Chaker

Writer, Lawyer, Business Consultant

By joining the event, you become part of the ecosystem.

By joining A'Pelago Initiative as a 2-Day Visitor, you gain an A'Pelago Ecosystem membership

When you purchase a 2-Day Pass to A'Pelago Initiative 2026, you automatically receive an A’Pelago Ecosystem membership — connecting you with a dynamic network of innovators, investors, and organizations shaping the future of the Blue Economy.

Today, the A'Pelago Ecosystem consists of over 500 organizations and 2,000 individuals, bringing together Blue Economy startups, investors, research and innovation partners, local communities, and industry leaders. As a member, you gain access to Blue Connect, our collaboration platform for the latest ecosystem news, opportunities, and networking.

The Ecosystem is designed for those who want to lead innovation, drive change, and actively contribute to the Blue Economy. More information about ecosystem memberships here.

Why we get together by the sea

Create New Initiatives Through Collaboration

In an increasingly polarized world, bringing diverse viewpoints together in the same space is more important than ever. Building Blue Economy initiatives with a positive impact for the future requires interaction that embraces the power of collaboration and inclusion.

We believe that shared vision and values have the power to shape new narratives for a better future. That’s why the A’Pelago Initiative is a forum for acceptance, trust, and the sharing of bold ideas — a place where new initiatives are born.

The Think Tank to Action Approach

Vibrant discussions are at the heart of A’Pelago Initiative. The event’s dynamic format is designed to encourage intersectional collaboration and spark co-created initiatives that turn ideas into action.

The careful selection of participants plays a vital role in shaping the success of the Initiative. Diverse backgrounds and expertise broaden perspectives, deepen understanding of key topics, and challenge present assumptions.

The Ecosystem

The A’Pelago Ecosystem is formed by a community of action-driven changemakers, entrepreneurs, researchers, investors, specialists, and policymakers. Each with a unique connection to, and ability to create positive impact on, the Sea and surrounding regions.

The Initiative events have brought together a diverse group of exceptional experts with the Sea Regions at heart. The Ecosystem is fully committed to driving tangible results in restoring the Seas.

A'Pelago Experience

The A’Pelago Initiative is more than a regular business event or forum. Each year, old friends and new faces gather at the gateway to one of the world’s largest archipelago areas to reconnect, collaborate, and be inspired by the Sea.

At Ruissalon Telakka, the atmosphere is relaxed yet full of energy. Conversations flow easily, ideas grow naturally, and everyone is welcomed. Surrounded by wooden boatyards, sea breezes, and local food, it’s a place where meaningful connections take shape and where the future of the Blue Economy begins.

Our Venue 2026

Ruissalon Telakka, Turku, Finland

A'Pelago Initiative partners 2026

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