Expanding our Ocean-based Economy

The Innovation District, Tampa Bay Wave and the University of South Florida (USF) won a NOAA grant at the beginning of the year to explore establishing an Ocean-based Climate Resiliency Accelerator.  This would create meaningful opportunities for data/technology startups to develop novel solutions in areas such as hazard mitigation, water-based renewable energy, pollution.  To assist in our planning process, we brought together a cross section of government, private industry, academic, and nonprofit entities.  The conversations were dynamic and delved into what is needed in Tampa Bay and across the nation.  

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For phase two of the project, we expanded the collaboration to include partners Seaworthy Collective, Braid Theory, Ocean Exchange, and World Ocean Council.  Together, we created a thoughtful continuum of services that provided entrepreneurs with a wide range of critical support.  Fingers crossed - we are awaiting the phase two grant decision!  In the meantime, we will be bringing our stakeholder group back together, along with our Ocean Team, this fall to continue the discussions.

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If you would like to join in please email abarlow@stpeteinnovationdistrict.com

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article originated in the September 2024 newsletter

photo credit: Two Stories Media