The Monaco Ocean Protection Challenge (MOPC) has opened submissions for its latest international competition, inviting students, recent graduates and young entrepreneurs to pitch innovative business ideas that protect and restore the world’s oceans.
The platform merges entrepreneurship with marine conservation, encouraging participants to design practical solutions that tackle ocean degradation and support healthier marine ecosystems.
Focus
The challenge seeks actionable, impact-driven business ideas capable of delivering tangible ocean benefits.
Participants can submit products, services or startup concepts aimed at reducing pollution, promoting sustainable industry practices or advancing marine ecosystem preservation.
Programme benefits
The competition is hosted by major institutions, including the International University of Monaco and the Oceanographic Institute Albert I Foundation, alongside key sustainability partners.
Participants may receive:
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Expert guidance and mentorship.
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Visibility in the global conservation community.
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Feedback from industry and sustainability judges.
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Potential follow-up opportunities such as funding, networking or acceleration support.
Who can apply
This is a competition—not a grant programme—and is open to individuals or teams who:
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Are university students, recent graduates or young entrepreneurs
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Have an idea, prototype or early-stage startup focused on ocean protection
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Can develop and pitch a structured business plan
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Are motivated to contribute to environmental sustainability
Submission expectations
Applicants must prepare a business plan outlining their concept, feasibility, projected impact and environmental value.
Ideas should clearly demonstrate how they support ocean protection—whether through innovation, circular economy solutions, pollution reduction, ocean literacy or sustainable resource use.
Shortlisted participants will pitch directly to a judging committee during the challenge event.
Deadline
Applications are due on February 13, 2026. Candidates can apply via the International University of Monaco website.
Discover related pitch calls on our Opportunities page.
Summary not available at this time.
