Office of Rep. Derek Kilmer announcement.
TACOMA, WA – Today (Feb. 23), U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06) proudly announced that Washington Maritime Blue has been awarded a significant grant, totaling $248,403 from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) under its Ocean-Based Climate Resilience Accelerators Program. This grant marks a monumental achievement in advancing ocean-based climate solutions and highlights the impactful work of Washington Maritime Blue in the maritime sector.
“I am thrilled to see Washington Maritime Blue receive this well-deserved NOAA grant,” said Rep. Kilmer. “Their dedication to pioneering ocean-based climate resilience initiatives not only positions Washington state at the forefront of environmental innovation but also ensures a sustainable future for the folks who work in our state’s maritime industry. We’re taking steps toward a cleaner, healthier Puget Sound.
In September, Rep. Kilmer led Washington state’s congressional delegation in endorsing Washington Maritime Blue’s application to NOAA’s Ocean-Based Climate Resilience Program in a letter to U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System Director Carl Gouldman.
“This is a tremendous effort and commitment to the role of early-stage innovation for ocean-based climate solutions,” said Joshua Berger, President/CEO of Maritime Blue. “We are honored to be considered for this transformational opportunity to support our programming and partnerships and be able to offer non-dilutive capital to startups supporting NOAA’s goals.”
The grant will facilitate the expansion of Maritime Blue’s recruitment, curriculum, and mentorship opportunities within its Blue Venture programming. This includes aligning with research institutions across Washington, Oregon, and Alaska, aiding startups in commercializing ocean-based climate resilience solutions, and providing invaluable mentorship.
Since its inception in 2018, Maritime Blue has been a national leader in supporting entrepreneurs and startups focusing on ocean-based climate solutions. With the support of more than 50 early-stage startups since 2019, its programs like the Maritime Blue Innovation Accelerator and the One Ocean Accelerator have significantly contributed to strategic areas such as ocean health, sustainable fishing, and marine renewable energy.
This grant reinforces the commitment of both Washington Maritime Blue and NOAA to the development of sustainable ocean-based industries and the overall health of our planet’s oceans.
About the NOAA Ocean-Based Climate Resilience Accelerator Program:
The focus of the NOAA Ocean-Based Climate Resilience Accelerator Program funding opportunity is to partner with and fund eligible organizations to develop business accelerators that provide specific programming and opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs aligned with identified marine-based climate resilience theme areas. The program fosters public-private partnerships to develop and support sustainable business models around ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes observation technologies, products, and services that address climate resilience needs.
