With roots in Chile and Spain, Loretxu GarcÃa and Karina Gómez won the APelago Pitch Challenge in Finland. In an interview with Entreprenerd, they explain why they are targeting the Nordic countries, how their algae-based hydrogel panel works, and when the technology could reach Chilean homes.
Blue Economy
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Organized by Hatch Blue in collaboration with Conservation International Ventures, the program aims to support women founders developing innovative solutions in sustainable aquaculture, marine biotechnology, and ocean conservation. The initiative will take place in Mexico, followed by 12 months of business support. Applications are open until November 7, 2026.
APelago Initiative 2026 brought together nearly 350 entrepreneurs, business leaders, researchers, investors, public policymakers and other actors in the Blue Economy in Ruissalon Telakka, Turku, on August 19 and 20.
As many as 40% of participants are travelling to Finland from more than 20 countries to share expertise, build partnerships, and develop new solutions to the challenges facing our oceans and society.
The bootcamps are hosted in Turku, Finland; Stockholm, Sweden; Trondheim, Norway; and Copenhagen, Denmark.
When Minna Arve walks into meetings now, shes no longer Turkus mayor. Her new role is quieter but as important: CEO of Business Turku, the regions business development company.