SINGAPORE — A powerful regional coalition was officially launched yesterday in Singapore to bolster ocean-impact start-ups across the Asia-Pacific, signaling a new era of sustainable innovation in one of the world’s richest marine ecosystems. The 1,000 Ocean Startups APAC Coalition—a regional chapter of the World Economic Forum-backed initiative—aims to help emerging companies scale profitable models that also restore and protect ocean health.

With the Asia-Pacific home to 60% of global marine biodiversity, the coalition sees massive untapped potential in ocean-focused ventures, ranging from seaweed farming to combat nutrient pollution, to offshore wind power projects and large-scale coral restoration schemes. The coalition’s stated goal is to back at least 1,000 such ventures worldwide by 2030. To date, over 350 start-ups globally have benefited from its programs.

Regional Support, Global Ambitions

The coalition brings together 52 member organizations globally, including venture capital funds, family offices, philanthropic entities, and accelerators. However, just six of these are currently headquartered in the Asia-Pacific, underscoring both the opportunity and the need for deeper regional engagement. Singapore’s Rumah Group, Mana Impact Partners, and Potato Impact Partners are among the key founding members driving the APAC chapter.

“The biodiversity and market potential here is immense, but start-ups need stronger support ecosystems,” said Thomas Knudsen, principal at Rumah Group. He noted that this regional effort aims to fill that gap by offering investment, mentoring, networking, and visibility to ocean innovators.

Growing Global Momentum for Blue Economy Start-Ups

The launch reflects growing global momentum to scale up so-called blue economy solutions as nations grapple with climate change, pollution, and declining fish stocks. International backers hope the Asia-Pacific chapter will catalyze new projects in countries like Indonesia, the Philippines, and Australia, where marine industries are vital to both economies and livelihoods.

With the formal launch in Singapore, the coalition plans to accelerate outreach and membership drives across Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands over the next 12 months, aiming to double the number of APAC-based members by mid-2026. (zai)