Blueing the Black Sea Shark Tank: Eco-Innovations Competing for Funding and International Support

Author: Elo Gaver

In early June, the Eco-Innovation Challenge Shark Tank event of the international Blueing the Black Sea programme took place in Chișinău, Moldova. Environmental innovation projects presented their solutions aimed at reducing pollution and addressing environmental challenges in the Black Sea region. Digiwise founder Lauri Antalainen participated as a member of the jury, helping to evaluate the finalists and select the most impactful solutions.

Blueing the Black Sea is a collaborative programme involving the World Bank, UNOPS and other international partners, with the goal of reducing pollution in the Black Sea and supporting the environmental sustainability of the region. This year’s innovation challenge attracted 186 applications from 40 countries, with 27 teams and organisations advancing to the final stage. During the Shark Tank event, finalists presented solutions designed to reduce pollution caused by agricultural runoff, wastewater, industrial activities and marine litter.

Winners were selected in two separate categories. Registered organisations, including startups, universities and non-profit organisations, were given the opportunity to receive funding and implementation support for their solutions. Teams and individuals in earlier stages of development will receive mentorship and technical assistance to further develop their ideas. The jury evaluated the projects based on their impact, feasibility and long-term potential. In total, 15 winners were selected, giving their ideas the opportunity to move forward to the next stage of development and contribute to improving the environmental health of the Black Sea.

The event brought together experts, investors, entrepreneurs and environmental innovators from different countries, highlighting the important role of international cooperation in addressing environmental challenges. Innovation, knowledge sharing and practical solutions help transform sustainable ideas into real-world impact.