19–20.8, Ruissalon Telakka, 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.

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.

As climate pressures intensify and maritime regions face complex challenges, collaboration across sectors has never been more crucial.

On August 19–20, 2026, over 300 dedicated entrepreneurs, business leaders, investors, researchers, NGOs, decision-makers, and specialists will 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.

You can expect bold keynotes, practical workshops, unmatched networking, and tested solutions emerging directly from the Baltic Sea. Be part of the movement, because We Are the Ocean.

Early Bird tickets are now available here.

FIRST ANNOUNCED VOICES OF Initiative 2026 (Preliminary)

Annamari Arrakoski-Engardt

CEO, John Nurminen Foundation

James Hughes

Managing Partner, Aether Capital Partners

Jörgen Bergqvist

Founding partner, Group CEO, Ocean Collective

Mikko Leskelä

CEO, Thinkers50

Natalie Mangondo

Principal Expert in Sustainable Finance, Nature at GRID‑Arendal

Peter Bryant

Oceans Program Director, Builders Vision

Sindre Østgård

Co-Founder, We Are Human, 2050.do Board of Stewards

Susanna Thimmig Johansen

CEO, Voice of the Ocean Foundation

Tuomas Riski

CEO, Triski consulting, ex-Norsepower

host & facilitators

Patrik Anckar

Partner & Co-founder

André Noël Chaker

Writer, Lawyer, Business Consultant

Timo Ketonen

Partner & Co-founder

Early Bird Tickets available now!

1-Day event ticket

Includes:
- 1-Day daytime program (19.8. or 20.8.)
- 1 year membership to Blue Connect Ecosystem platform

400€

(+ VAT)

Price without discount: 500€

Early Bird tickets are now available at this set price, which will remain for a limited time.

2-Day event ticket

Includes:
- 2-Day daytime program
- 1 year membership to Blue Connect Ecosystem platform

550€

(+ VAT)

Price without discount: 650€

Early Bird tickets are now available at this set price, which will remain for a limited time.

Venture Booth

Includes:
- 2x2-Day daytime program
- 2x1 year membership to Blue Connect Ecosystem platform
- A booth at the event venue, including: standing table,  Electricity outlet, WLAN connection

The ticket is intended for Startups and NGOs

1500€

(+ VAT)

Choose tickets: "Venture booth" and fill in both ticket users name and email. We will send a personal ticket to the other participants as well.

3 x 2-Day event ticket

Includes:
- 3 x 2-Day daytime program
- 3 x 1 year membership to Blue Connect Ecosystem platform

1650€

(+ VAT)

Price without discount: 1950€

Early Bird tickets are now available at this set price, which will remain for a limited time.

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 700 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.

Our Venue 2026

Ruissalon Telakka, Turku, Finland

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.

for more information about the event & program, please contact

We encourage you to reach out to us with any questions about the program or partnerships

A'Pelago Initiative partners 2026

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