This week's brief invites readers to partner with UNIDO and WTCA, and provides a first look at WTCA's 2025 Annual Report. Happy reading!

📢 The Blue Economy Needs Your Local Network

🌊 The Blue Economy was valued at approximately USD 1.5 trillion in 2010 and is projected to double by 2030, reaching nearly USD 5 trillion in gross value added by 2050. It is a growing global market with significant opportunities for innovation and sustainable development.

Across the WTCA network, Members and their local communities are already driving meaningful impact within the Blue Economy, and we want to help showcase and support these efforts through the UNIDO-WTCA Global Call. 

Are you or your local network working in?:

• Blue Renewable Energy: Utilizing ocean potential to support the global energy transition and strengthen resilience in coastal and island economies? 
• Sustainable Blue Food: Responsibly sourcing aquatic foods — such as fish, shellfish, and seaweed — to support food security? 
• Green Maritime Transport & Smart Ports: Modernizing shipping and port infrastructure through sustainable shipbuilding, alternative fuels, and digital technologies to reduce emissions and improve efficiency? 
• Coastal & Marine Tourism and Recreation: Creating sustainable and nature-based tourism or recreational experiences? 
• Sea, Lake & River Health Restoration: Restoring aquatic ecosystems through pollution control, habitat restoration, and sustainable resource management? 
• Blue Tech & Biotechnology: Applying advanced marine technologies and biological innovations — such as AI, drones, blue databases, and biomaterials — to drive sustainable industrial solutions?

The UNIDO-WTCA Blue Economy Global Call 2026 application deadline is Friday, June 19, 2026. Applications are free to submit, and applicants may select up to two categories from the six categories listed above.

Winners will receive:

• Potential pilot opportunities in partner countries 
• Access to business programs and new global markets 
• Matchmaking and scaling support from both UNIDO and WTCA 
• Global visibility through the UNIDO and WTCA networks 

Winners will be recognized in Rome, Italy at the Euro Mediterranean Water Forum — placing their solutions on an international stage in front of leaders, partners, and stakeholders shaping the future of the Blue Economy. (Travel support will be available for eligible winners.)

Read 2025 Annual Report

2025 marked a year of strong Member engagement and collaboration across the Association, highlighted by the 55th annual Global Business Forum (GBF), continued investment in strategic initiatives and digital tools, and the highest number of new Members since 2014 — advancing WTCA’s global expansion and “Road to 500” initiative. Read the full report to learn more about WTCA’s accomplishments and impact throughout the year.