Nordic Innovation Launches Call for Ocean Cluster Network Proposals

Deadline: 26-Mar-2026

Nordic Innovation is seeking proposals to create a Nordic Ocean Clusters Network to accelerate innovative blue economy solutions. The initiative offers 6,000,000 NOK in grant funding over three years, requiring co-funding to reach a minimum total budget of 12,000,000 NOK. Eligible applicants include clusters, companies, research institutions, and public sector actors from at least three Nordic countries, aiming to commercialize solutions or secure investment.

Overview

Nordic Innovation invites proposals to establish a network of ocean-related clusters and similar organisations across the Nordic region. The goal is to:

• Foster cross-border collaboration among Nordic ocean clusters

• Enable knowledge sharing and synergy creation across sectors

• Reduce duplicative work and accelerate the commercialisation of ocean innovations

• Support investment readiness for innovative blue economy solutions

Funding Details

• Grant Amount: 6,000,000 NOK over three years

• Co-Funding Requirement: Total project budget of ≥12,000,000 NOK, matched or exceeded by co-funding from partners

• Co-Funding Forms: Cash contributions or in-kind support (e.g., working hours, resources)

Project Scope & Activities

• Design and operate structured accelerator programmes for solution providers

• Conduct workshops, investor connection events, and pitching sessions

• Create a joint Nordic investment prospectus for ocean economy solutions

• Ensure participating solution providers either:

  • Successfully commercialize their innovations, or

  • Secure clear investment commitments

• Develop a sustainable business model for the accelerator beyond Nordic Innovation funding

Eligibility Criteria

• Lead applicants must be a cluster or ecosystem organisation

• Eligible participants include:

  • Private or institutional investors

  • Companies and consultancies

  • Innovation institutions and higher education institutions

  • Public sector actors

• Consortium Requirements: Must include partners from at least three Nordic countries

• Industry participation and benefits to Nordic companies are key evaluation criteria

Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be assessed based on:

• Cross-border collaboration and partnership strength

• Impact on Nordic blue economy innovation and commercialization

• Quality of the accelerator programme design and implementation plan

• Investment readiness and potential for securing external funding

• Sustainability of the initiative beyond the grant period

Application Process & Timeline

• Submit proposals through the Nordic Innovation online portal

• Ensure all consortium members meet eligibility requirements

• Clearly define co-funding contributions and project budget

• Include a detailed plan for accelerator activities, workshops, and investor engagement

Key Considerations & Tips

• Highlight the Nordic added value, showing benefits to companies across multiple countries

• Clearly describe how the accelerator will support commercialization or investment

• Ensure that co-funding is realistic, verifiable, and documented

• Emphasize industry participation and potential impact on Nordic ocean clusters

Conclusion

This call offers a unique opportunity to strengthen the Nordic blue economy by creating a collaborative network of ocean clusters, supporting innovation commercialization, and securing investment for cutting-edge solutions. Applicants must demonstrate strong cross-border collaboration, a clear path to market or investment, and a sustainable accelerator model.

For more information, visit Nordic Innovation.