BlueInvest Africa 2025 is a landmark initiative dedicated to connecting African innovators in the blue economy with global investors, experts, and policymakers. Organized by the European Union in close cooperation with African nations, this high-level business-to-business (B2B) event aims to support the sustainable development of Africa’s vast ocean and water-based resources through impactful investment and entrepreneurship.
Set to take place in Lomé, Togo, BlueInvest Africa 2025 will bring together early-stage startups, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and entrepreneurs who are actively working within the blue economy—an expansive sector that includes sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, ocean energy, marine biotechnology, coastal tourism, marine transport, and ecosystem protection. By fostering access to capital, markets, and networks, the event helps to build an inclusive and environmentally responsible economic framework across Africa’s coastal and island states.
Building on the success of its 2022 debut in the Seychelles, the 2025 edition offers a powerful platform for selected participants to pitch their business projects directly to a panel of international investors and stakeholders. These interactions are designed not only to attract funding but also to promote cross-border collaborations, technology transfer, and knowledge sharing between Europe and Africa.
As the demand for sustainable blue economy solutions continues to rise, BlueInvest Africa stands out as a premier opportunity for African entrepreneurs to showcase innovation, attract investment, and scale impact in some of the continent’s most critical economic and environmental sectors.
BlueInvest Africa is modeled after the EU’s own BlueInvest platform, which was created to boost investment and innovation in Europe’s blue economy. The African version of the event aims to replicate this success by supporting the continent’s transition toward a greener and more sustainable future.
Name of Organizer:
European Union (EU)
Requirements / Eligibility:
Entrepreneurs and enterprises wishing to participate in BlueInvest Africa 2025 must meet the following eligibility criteria:
1. African Affiliation:
Applicants must be based in or operate within an African country. Companies with African founders, African headquarters, or active operations in African waters are encouraged to apply.
2. Sector Focus:
Projects must fall within one or more blue economy sectors, including:
– Sustainable fisheries and aquaculture
– Marine biotechnology
– Ocean renewable energy (e.g., wave, tidal, offshore wind)
– Coastal and marine ecotourism
– Maritime transport and shipping
– Waste management and marine pollution reduction
– Marine ecosystem conservation and restoration
3. Business Stage:
The program is open to early-stage and growth-stage companies, ideally with a product or service that is market-ready or piloted. Research-based or idea-stage concepts will not be considered.
4. Legal Structure:
Applicants must be formally registered entities, such as a start-up, SME, or cooperative.
5. Innovation and Sustainability:
The solution or business model should present innovative approaches to solving ocean-related challenges and must align with sustainable development principles.
6. Pitch Readiness:
Applicants should be prepared to deliver a professional pitch presentation in English or French to a jury of investors and stakeholders during the event.
7. Language:
Applications can be submitted in English or French, which are the two working languages of the event.
8. Inclusivity Focus:
Female-led businesses, youth entrepreneurs, and marginalized groups are strongly encouraged to apply.
Prize:
While there is no direct monetary prize, BlueInvest Africa 2025 offers a unique set of high-value benefits for selected participants:
– Investor Exposure:
Participants will present their business to a curated group of international investors, including venture capital firms, impact funds, donor agencies, and public financial institutions.
– Business Networking:
Engage with global and regional stakeholders including EU partners, African governments, development banks, and private sector leaders.
– Capacity Building:
Access tailored workshops and mentoring sessions that focus on refining business models, investment readiness, and sustainable practices.
– Visibility and Promotion:
Selected companies will be profiled through the official BlueInvest Africa platform, EU-affiliated media, and press outlets.
– Follow-Up Support:
Post-event engagement opportunities through EU-funded programs, accelerators, and access to the broader BlueInvest network.
This prize structure is designed to provide long-term strategic value that can help entrepreneurs unlock funding, build credibility, and grow their operations sustainably.
Application Deadline:
The application deadline for BlueInvest Africa 2025 is:
April 14, 2025
Early applications are recommended due to limited participation slots and the competitive selection process. Only shortlisted candidates will be invited to present at the live event.
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