The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has launched a new global call to action— Ocean Innovation Challenge (OIC) to accelerate progress on Sustainable Development Goal 14 targets.
The Ocean Innovation Challenge seeks innovations that are transferable, replicable and scalable. The Challenge grants range from $50,000 to $250,000.
The Ocean Innovation Challenge aims to increase the urgency of tackling ocean pollution, particularly from plastics and nutrients, the first of several planned OICs focuses on SDG 14.1- Reduce Marine Pollution.
“At a time when the world’s oceans and seas face unprecedented pressures, UNDP’s new Ocean Innovation Challenge will shine a light on innovative, entrepreneurial and creative approaches that can advance ocean and coastal restoration and protection,” says Achim Steiner, UNDP Administrator.
“Supporting the blue economy in this way can help us achieve SDG 14— while spurring economic development and helping to reduce poverty and inequality.”
For interested parties to take part in the Ocean Innovation Challenge:
1.) The innovations to be submitted can include technological as well as cutting edge policy, regulatory, financial, economic or other actions that address either sea-based or land-based sectors.
2.) Initial concepts can be submitted by public or private entities, including governments, private companies (including startups), NGO/CSO, United Nations entities, academic institutions, and intergovernmental organizations.
3.) The Challenge must be implemented in and benefit stakeholders in developing countries, but may be submitted by developing or developed country proponents.
Timeline
1.) Starting 8 January 2020, interested applicants should submit their preliminary proposal here no later than 5 March 2020. Early applications are encouraged.
2.) In April 2020, successful applicants to the first round will be invited to submit a more detailed project proposal before 25 April 2020.
3.) OIC Award-winners will be announced at the 2nd UN Ocean Conference in Lisbon, Portugal, 2-6 June 2020.
Click here for more information and apply here.
