The SAN diego region has a robust ocean science and technology industry, a diverse innovation ecosystem, large and active port and military, an international border, multiple tribal nations, and a…

The SAN diego region has a robust ocean science and technology industry, a diverse innovation ecosystem, large and active port and military, an international border, multiple tribal nations, and a wealth of ocean-research leadership. In 2020, university of california SAN diego launched the startblue accelerator (https://startblue.ucsd.EDU/). Startblue is funded by the US department of commerce economic development association (EDA) and led in partnership by scripps institution of oceanography and RADY school of management (RADY). IT was designed to support the formation of advanced science and engineering startups tackling ocean-focused challenges and solutions integrated into science, industry, investment, and government networks. The success of startblue has created the need for expanded coordination and the next step in SAN diego's support for ocean-based startups to scale their solutions for commercial success and impact on climate change themes.