From Vision to Impact: Stories from the A’Pelago Accelerator Alumni

Real change starts with collaboration and the results speak for themselves.

Startups that joined A’Pelago’s Nordic Blue Accelerator have turned bold ideas into tangible impact across the Nordic Blue Economy. From pilot projects to patents and investor partnerships, their journeys show what’s possible when innovation meets trust, expertise, and a strong ecosystem.

What our alumni says about the program

“The A’Pelago accelerator was the perfect launchpad for entering the Finnish market and connecting with marine conservation networks, investors, public-sector actors, and other key partners. The program helped me refine my business model for Europe — and gave me new ideas and friendships that continue to move the journey forward. I’m now building a Baltic Sea pilot with partners I met through A’Pelago.”

— Sari Tolvanen, CEO & Founder, Ocean Eye

During the collaboration, OliOil developed a business plan and ultimately built an MVP — a prototype that enabled us to verify the functionality of the propulsion system. At the same time, OliOil Oy initiated the patenting process and worked closely with A’Pelago, the 1000 Ocean Startups Programme, and Åbo Akademi. We are extremely pleased with all of this and will continue this work as part of our company’s growth journey.”

— Laura Lepistö, Director of Services & Business Development, OliOil Oy

"We received valuable instructions and coaching on how to build an investor pitch. We also received excellent support regarding our marketing and sales challenges from the coaches who was assigned to us. Their input was outstanding."

– Poul Lindqvist, Managing partner of Environmental Impacts Academy

"During the A'Pelago Accelerator, we validated and refined our Restoration as a Service concept, and it paid off immediately. We secured our first restoration project and the second is already in the making. 

While the program was professionally executed, the true difference-maker was the incredible people and network. The connections, mentorship, and peer support gave us the clarity and confidence to accelerate down our chosen path."

- Magnus Hanstén, CEO & Co-founder - Nemo Seafarms

These stories are more than success cases, they’re proof of what happens when mission-driven founders come together to shape the future of the Blue Economy.

Be Part of the Next Wave

The Nordic Blue Accelerator 2026 is now open for applications.
This 7-month, equity-free program by A’Pelago supports high-impact, early-stage companies driving innovation in the Blue Economy — from marine biotech to circular materials, ocean data, aquaculture, and coastal infrastructure. Participants gain access to leading Nordic blue economy hubs, hands-on coaching, tailored market entry strategies, and exclusive opportunities to connect with investors and research partners across the region.

Program Timeline

August 2026: Investor Day at A’Pelago Initiative, Ruissalo Shipyard, Turku
20 September – 5 December 2025: Application Period
February 2026: Kickoff Week in Finland
March-June 2026: Coaching, field trips in Nordic countries, and ongoing support

Join the community shaping the future of sustainable seas.