Reading time ~1 minute
On 10 June 2025, Hub Azul Portugal and the Portugal Blue Digital Hub hosted the session “Shaping the Future of Portugal’s Blue Economy” at The Startup Reef during the United Nations Ocean Conference (#UNOC3) in Nice, France. The session attracted a full audience, reflecting the growing global interest in Portugal’s innovation-driven maritime strategy.
The event opened with remarks from His Excellency Salvador Malheiro, Secretary of State for Fisheries and the Sea, Government of Portugal, who reinforced the country’s strategic commitment to a resilient and sustainable ocean economy.
Gonçalo Faria, Lead Manager of Hub Azul Portugal – Fórum Oceano, presented the #HubAzulPortugal Network, sharing key investment trends and sectoral insights in blue renewables, blue biotechnology, and marine ecosystem regeneration. He also highlighted the capabilities of the #HubAzulDealroom, showcasing the power of data intelligence in mapping the blue economy ecosystem.
Two strategic regional hubs of the Hub Azul Network were featured:
- Hub Azul Peniche, presented by João Rito (CEO of SEAentia, SmartOcean Board Member)
- Hub Azul Oeiras Mar | IPMA, presented by Prof. José Guerreiro (President of Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera, IPMA)
Ruben Eiras, Secretary-General of Fórum Oceano, presented another flagship project – the Portugal Blue Digital Hub – highlighting the digital transformation of Portugal’s blue economy.
Additionally, Joana Moreira-Silva, Board Member of BLUEBIO ALLIANCE, emphasized the growing role of bio-based innovation in strengthening marine value chains.
This session underlined Portugal’s position as a global reference for innovation, investment, and sustainable development in the blue economy sector.