Presenter(s):
Zack Baize, NOAA
Millicent Pitts, Ocean Exchange
Vanessa Scott, Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Hans VanSumeren, Marine Technology Society

Primary Convener:
Hans VanSumeren, Marine Technology Society

The Ocean Enterprise, a key part of the ocean economy, centers on ocean observation, forecasting, and services, involving public, private, and academic entities.  The Marine Technology Society (MTS), with NOAA's funding, established the Ocean Enterprise Initiative in 2023.  This collaborative effort with NOAA, the Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS), and industry partners Kongsberg Discovery and L3Harris aims to spearhead innovation, accelerate thought leadership, and drive economic development within the global Ocean Enterprise. Real-time, scaled ocean data and marine intelligence are increasingly necessary for expanding global markets. We must continue to advance. Even though oceans dominate our planet (70%+ coverage), data limitations are impeding the growth of a robust ocean economy. Funding limitations, high costs, and a fragmented demand structure hinder current ocean data collection. Public-private partnerships and the private sector can revolutionize this area by boosting innovation, cutting costs, and creating new commercial uses. This discussion will focus on actions moving toward a more vibrant, sustainable, and profitable ocean observation ecosystem - all achieved by connecting investors, technology companies, insurers, and other key industries with ocean startups and nontraditional data.

Cross-Listed:
OS - Ocean Sciences