James Morioka carefully removes a derelict fishing net from the reef at Hōlanikū (Kure Atoll). Photo credit: NOAA Fisheries/Ariel Halperin.

Seaworthy Collective Opens Ocean Innovation Cohort 6

In a world where the ocean’s health directly impacts life on Earth, supporting innovation in marine technology is more critical than ever. That’s precisely the mission Seaworthy Collective has embraced—and in 2025, the Miami-based nonprofit is taking its commitment to ocean impact even further.

On April 21, 2025, Seaworthy Collective opens applications for Cohort 6 of The Continuum Ocean Enterprise Studio & Incubator, an updated version of its flagship Startup Program. Designed for U.S.-based startups, this year’s program exclusively supports ocean data technologies and services, reflecting a strategic collaboration with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and its Ocean Enterprise Initiative. The deadline to apply is June 26, 2025.

Seaworthy’s expanded role in its $14 million partnership with NOAA, known as The Continuum, underscores its growing influence in the BlueTech space. The Continuum is a coordinated network of ocean enterprise accelerators—including Braid Theory, Ocean Exchange, St. Pete Innovation District, Tampa Bay Wave, World Ocean Council, and the University of South Florida—working to fast-track startups, scaling ocean impact more efficiently than ever.

Seaworthy’s expanded role in its $14 million partnership with NOAA, known as The Continuum, underscores its growing influence in the BlueTech space. The Continuum is a coordinated network of ocean enterprise accelerators—including Braid Theory, Ocean Exchange, St. Pete Innovation District, Tampa Bay Wave, World Ocean Council, and the University of South Florida—working to fast-track startups, scaling ocean impact more efficiently than ever.

“This cohort marks a new chapter in the partnership between NOAA and Seaworthy Collective! We are excited and optimistic about the innovation and opportunities that will arise from this program and the new ventures that Seaworthy Collective will be supporting as they build the next generation of blue economy businesses,” said Zack Baize, Program Manager of NOAA’s Ocean Enterprise Initiative.

Empowering Ocean Data Innovators

Startups selected for the Ocean Enterprise Studio & Incubator gain mentorship, funding opportunities, and access to an interconnected ecosystem of BlueTech leaders. Participants will be eligible for Technology Development Commercialization awards ranging from $10,000 to $50,000, further strengthening their ability to bring impactful ocean solutions to market.

The program’s evolution signals a new phase for Seaworthy Collective. “Our enhanced programming provides unprecedented access to support, connections, resources, and opportunities not only across Seaworthy’s network but also through our industry-leading partners,” said Daniel Kleinman, Founder & CEO of Seaworthy Collective. “This latest iteration of our program will be a catalyst for early-stage or aspiring BlueTech founders looking for clear pathways to navigate the blue economy.”

Expanding Access with The Shoreline

While this year’s cohort focuses solely on U.S.-based ocean data startups, Seaworthy has ensured that founders outside this scope still have access to tailored support. Enter The Shoreline, Seaworthy’s new subscription-based platform, which offers flexible guidance and essential industry resources without the intensive commitment of a full incubator program.

Startups looking to add ocean data collection or utilization capacities can tap into The Shoreline’s offerings, while non-U.S. BlueTech founders can access network connections, industry insights, resources, and personalized support at their own pace. Tamara Kahn Zissman, Director of Founder Success at Seaworthy Collective, emphasized the platform’s adaptability:

“We’re incredibly excited about championing startups leveraging technology to collect, analyze, and provide insights from ocean-related data. Even startups looking to add data collection or utilization capacities can get the targeted support they need to translate their technological advancements into impactful solutions.”

Shaping the Future of BlueTech

Cohort 6 Application

Applications for the Ocean Enterprise Studio & Incubator are open from April 21 through June 26, 2025. Founders looking to accelerate their ocean-impact ventures can apply at seaworthycollective.com/seachange.

For startups seeking flexible access to resources, The Shoreline is currently welcoming beta subscribers with an exclusive 40% discount using code BETA40. Details can be found at shoreline.community.

Since its founding, Seaworthy Collective has supported 40 BlueTech startups and 78 founders, collectively raising nearly $20 million in funding. With the next generation of ocean innovators on the horizon, The Continuum and The Shoreline are set to drive even greater impact for marine conservation and sustainable solutions.

For more information, visit Seaworthy Collective and The Continuum.


About Seaworthy Collective:
Seaworthy Collective is a Miami-based 501c3 nonprofit that supports current and aspiring entrepreneurs driving innovation for ocean impact (AKA BlueTech). Our mission is to bring all hands on deck for BlueTech, via programs to co-create and grow early-stage startups, build regional capacity, and educate our community. We empower Sea Change Makers – founders of all backgrounds leading profitable and planet-positive businesses. Since 2021, we’ve supported 40 BlueTech startups and 78 founders, who have raised almost $20 million since graduating. Based in Miami, our local and global community generates scalable solutions for 71% of the planet (our ocean) to regenerate 100% of the planet. Learn more at SeaworthyCollective.com

About The Continuum:
The Continuum is a coordinated network of ocean enterprise accelerators that fast-tracks startups getting to market by making support for BlueTech solutions more scalable, efficient, and interconnected. The Continuum partners include Braid Theory, Ocean Exchange, Seaworthy Collective, St. Pete Innovation District, Tampa Bay Wave, World Ocean Council, and the University of South Florida. Learn more on our website at: https://www.tampabaywave.org/the-continuum