Meet the Startups Transforming the Blue Economy

Whale Seeker's mobius observer product capturing aerial footage of a whale

Maritime security is no longer just about ships and ports. It is increasingly shaped by climate resilience, ocean technology, and healthy marine ecosystems

As the Blue Action Canada Residency took place last week in Vancouver, the cohort's startups are tackling some of the blue economy's most pressing challenges, from underwater infrastructure monitoring and port security to maritime electrification, biodiversity protection, and ocean restoration.

Deepwater Robotics is making ocean survey and subsea inspection more accessible through autonomous underwater vehicles capable of monitoring critical infrastructure and detecting anomalies beneath the surface. Flux Lines is supporting the transition to cleaner, more resilient ports through battery barge technology designed to reduce emissions and increase energy flexibility.

At the same time, Whale Seeker is using AI-powered detection systems to help vessels identify marine mammals and birds in real time, improving both environmental outcomes and navigational awareness. Meanwhile, PhyCo Technologies is demonstrating how industrial-scale seaweed bioplastics can reduce reliance on petroleum-based materials while actively restoring marine ecosystems.

Together, these innovations highlight a growing reality: maritime security, economic resilience, and environmental stewardship are increasingly interconnected. Protecting our ports, coastlines, and critical infrastructure depends as much on healthy marine ecosystems and sustainable technologies as it does on traditional maritime operations.

Supported by COAST (Centre for Ocean Applied Sustainable Technologies) Founders Factory, and a global network of partners, including the Port of San Diego, ZEBOX, AltaSea at the Port of Los Angeles, The Grand Bahama Port Authority, and the Government of Barbados, the program continues to showcase the power of collaboration across the blue economy.