Meet the Cohort

The Gulf Blue Navigator program offers blue technology startups a chance to operate in a unique region of the United States, characterized by a complex body of water. The Gulf presents distinct challenges and conditions, which allows startups to explore new applications and refine the capabilities of their platforms. Additionally, startups can enrich their experience by interacting with individuals who already confront these challenges daily.

Rebuilding Coastlines with Nature’s Architects

Nature-Based Solutions for Stronger Coasts.

Restoring Coastal Ecology with Nature-Inspired Reef Solutions

Nature-Powered Reef Restoration for a Resilient Coast.

Instant Sediment Insights with Intelligent Imaging

Fast. Accurate. Field-Ready Sediment Analysis.

Engineering Sustainability for a Regenerative Future

Transforming Waste into Sustainable Opportunity.

Revolutionizing Coastal Protection with Nature-Based Engineering

Patented Shoreline Solutions That Grow Habitat.

AI Intelligence from Seafloor to Surface

Intelligence for the Ocean, Built for the Operator.

We’re all in the same boat!
The Gulf Blue Navigator program partners are essential to the success of the startups. These partners have been unwavering in their support by providing workshop hours, mentorship, introductions, and financial aid for the program. The result? A thriving ecosystem ready to support the growth of the Blue Economy on the Gulf Coast of Mississippi.

“We are thrilled to be working with the Navigator startups as they surf the leading edge of the Blue Economy. We’ve worked together to establish new customers, acquire federal contract vehicles, solve supply-chain challenges, and forge new business-to-business partnerships.”

Joel Lawhead | Project Manager for the Unmanned Coast US Small Business Administration Regional Innovative Cluster

“It has been amazing to see the level of innovation and technology, both national and international, that Gulf Blue Navigator has attracted to our area. It is certainly a program that will bring in numerous pioneers of blue technology companies and products, as well as several exciting job opportunities and new futures for young people to live and work along our beautiful Gulf Coast.”

Chris Forét | Assistant Executive Director, Coast Transit Authority

“It has been exciting to share my beloved Mississippi Sound and Northern Gulf of Mexico with the cohort. This region has some of the greatest biodiversity in the world deserving of more study and protections. Seeing these bluetech businesses embrace the inclusion of conservation into their products will help advance oceanic scientific research.”

Holley Muraco | Director of Research, Mississippi Aquarium