Become a Sustainable Blue Economy Professional (SBEP)
Get Recognized. Grow Your Career.
Strengthen Our Ocean Future.
A global credential for ocean professionals.
What Is the SBEP Designation
The Sustainable Blue Economy Professional (SBEP) designation recognizes individuals whose knowledge, experience, and ethics support a sustainable global ocean economy.
Developed by Ocean Alliance Canada in partnership with ECO Canada and supported by the Future Skills Centre, this credential validates your education, skills, and real-world experience in the sustainable blue economy.
Built on the Blue National Occupational Standards (BNOS), SBEP defines the competencies that strengthen the ocean workforce across research, industry, policy, science, technology and community leadership.
This designation serves as a trusted benchmark of professionalism and ethical practice across ocean sectors and roles worldwide.
SBEP application fees waived for Canadian applicants until April 2026.
A Rigorous, Standards-Based Credential You Can Trust
The SBEP designation is grounded in a structured and transparent certification process based on the Blue National Occupational Standards (BNOS). These standards were developed through employer consultation, industry research and labour market analysis, ensuring that every applicant is evaluated consistently and fairly across the global ocean workforce.
The certification process includes:
- Competency-Based Skills Assessment
All applicants complete a BNOS-aligned assessment (Self-assessment) that evaluates core, technical and sector-specific competencies. - Verification of Education and Experience
Education, work history and professional references are reviewed to confirm accuracy and eligibility. - Knowledge and Ethics Exam
Required for SBEP and SBEP Specialized applicants.
SBEP-in-training applicants complete a career-mapping exercise instead of an exam. - Independent Review
Applications are reviewed and ratified by the Blue Economy Certification and Approvals Board (BECAB).
These steps ensure the SBEP designation remains credible, defensible and trusted by employers, educators and professionals across the global ocean workforce.
Who It’s For
The SBEP designation recognizes professionals at all stages of their ocean career, including those working in technology, science, research, education, policy, operations and leadership.
SBEP-in-training (SBEPt)
For individuals with less than five years of experience or those new to the ocean sector.
SBEP
For professionals with five or more years of experience across ocean-related or adjacent industries.
SBEP Specialized
For professionals with five or more years of experience in one or more areas of specialization within the blue economy.
Education Requirement:
Applicants must hold a two or three-year college diploma or a three or four-year university degree, or an equivalent international credential.
Who Is an SBEP?
A Sustainable Blue Economy Professional advances responsible and sustainable practice in ocean and coastal industries. They combine technical skill with ethical decision-making, support innovation in their field, and contribute to a workforce that strengthens ocean sustainability for future generations. SBEPs lead by example, grow their expertise, and help build capacity in the communities and sectors they work in.
Alex – Marine Data and Technology Specialist
Works with sensors, remote systems and marine data to understand animal movement, climate trends and environmental change. Helps researchers and industry make informed, sustainable decisions.
Rina – Conservation and Ecosystem Management Professional
Designs research, collaborates with harvesters and coastal communities, and develops solutions that reduce risks to whales and other species.
Daniel – Ocean Operations and Field Engineer
Deploys and recovers instruments, operates ROVs and supports safe offshore operations through technical skill and field expertise.
Areas of Specialization
Applicants may select one or multiple areas of specialization that align with their expertise.
Operations and Navigation
Operate, navigate and maintain marine vessels and onboard systems in safe and variable conditions.
Science and Ecosystem Management
Research, monitor and assess marine and coastal ecosystems to support sustainable resource management and conservation..
Technology and Engineering
Design, build and maintain marine technologies, systems and instrumentation.
Marine & Coastal Tourism
Professionals who support sustainable tourism in ocean and coastal settings through responsible operations, environmental stewardship, cultural respect, and community-focused visitor experiences.
Geoanalytics and Spatial Planning
Use spatial data and GIS to inform ocean planning, environmental assessment and resource management.
Sustainable Infrastructure
Support offshore renewable energy and sustainable ocean infrastructure through technical development and deployment.
Fisheries and Aquaculture
Manage the cultivation, harvesting, health and regulatory compliance of fisheries and aquaculture operations.
Support and Leadership
Enable ocean sectors through program leadership, safety, communications, education and coordination across stakeholders.
How We Assess Skills in the Ocean Sector
Every SBEP application is reviewed using a structured, competency-based process built on the Blue National Occupational Standards (BNOS). This ensures fairness, transparency and alignment with real workforce needs.
1. Skills and Competency Self- Assessment
Applicants complete a BNOS-aligned assessment that covers core, technical and sector-specific competencies.
SBEP-in-Training complete a career-mapping exercise instead.
2. Verification and Review
Education, experience and references are verified to ensure accuracy and credibility.
3. Knowledge and Ethics Exam
Required for SBEP and SBEP Specialized applicants.
Covers ocean governance, ecosystems, sustainability, innovation and the SBEP Code of Ethical Practice.
An independent review by BECAB completes the process.
Why It Matters
Global Ocean Economy
USD 2.6 trillion
Global value of the ocean economy (OECD)
100+ million jobs
Full-time equivalent jobs supported worldwide
Canada’s Ocean Economy
$30+ billion GDP
Annual economic contribution
65,000 workers needed
Estimated labour demand over the next decade
The SBEP designation ensures ocean professionals worldwide are recognized, skilled, and accountable to sustainable practice. It provides a credible benchmark of professionalism and ethics across the global blue economy.
Join a growing community of people shaping the future of ocean sustainability in Canada and around the world.
Benefits That Support Your Ongoing Career Growth
International recognition for your expertise, education, and commitment to sustainability
A verified credential that validates both formal learning and hands-on practice
Access to professional networks and mentorship, including OAC and ECO Canada communities
Discounts on events, training, and conferences
Eligibility for awards, speaking, and leadership opportunities
Continued career growth through annual professional development
How to Apply
1
Confirm your eligibility
Choose the designation level that matches your experience.
2
Start your online application
Create your profile and enter your education and work history.
3
Verify your skills and experience
Upload documentation and provide references for competency validation.
4
Complete the SBEP Exam
Demonstrate your knowledge of governance, ecosystems, sustainability, innovation, and ethics.
5
Become certified
Once approved, join a growing global community of ocean professionals.
Review time: 6–8 weeks
Fees: Waived until April 30, 2026.
Maintain Your Designation
SBEP professionals commit to continuous learning through 20 credits of professional development each year.
Professional development can include webinars, courses, mentorship, events, or microcredentials, ensuring you stay current and connected as the blue economy evolves.
SBEP Employer Program
Encourage your employer to support your SBEP application. Employers who champion professional designation help build a skilled, ethical and sustainability-focused workforce.
Encourage your employer to support your SBEP application. Employers who champion professional designation help build a skilled, ethical and sustainability-focused workforce.
Employer Benefits:
- National recognition as an SBEP Employer
- Discounts on application and renewal fees for sponsored staff
- Access to HR services, onboarding tools, and job board credits
- Complimentary Ocean Alliance Canada membership
- Discounts on OAC and ECO Canada events and reports
- 10% off BEAHR instructor licensing fees
- Early Enrollment Benefit: Renewal fees waived until April 2027
FAQ
Get answers about eligibility, application steps, exams, fees, member benefits, and how the Sustainable Blue Economy Professional designation works for both Canadian and international applicants
GENERAL QUESTIONS (Applies to All Applicants)
When do I need to renew my designation?
The Sustainable Blue Economy Professional (SBEP) designation recognizes individuals whose education, skills and experience support a sustainable global ocean economy. It is a competency-based, standards-aligned credential developed by Ocean Alliance Canada in partnership with ECO Canada, grounded in the Blue National Occupational Standards (BNOS). It validates your expertise across ocean-related or adjacent industries and demonstrates your commitment to ethical professional practice.
What happens if my membership lapses?
The SBEP designation provides international recognition of your competencies, strengthens your professional credibility, and supports long-term career growth. It verifies both formal learning and hands-on experience, connects you to professional networks, and signals your commitment to sustainable ocean practice.
How do reinstatements work?
Certification aligns your experience with BNOS-defined competencies used across research, technology, operations, policy, science and leadership. SBEP holders gain a verified credential that improves job competitiveness, supports mobility across ocean sectors, and opens opportunities for leadership, speaking and professional roles.
How do I change my specialization?
No. The SBEP is a professional credential, not a job placement program. It strengthens your qualifications and credibility but does not guarantee employment.
How do I cancel my designation?
SBEP assesses competencies unique to the sustainable blue economy rather than engineering practice. It reflects cross-sector ocean skills such as governance, sustainability, operations, research, spatial planning, technology, and community engagement.
What education do I need to apply for SBEP or SBEPt?
All applicants must hold:
- A two or three-year college diploma, or
- A three or four-year university degree, or
An equivalent international credential
Can I apply with only a high school diploma?
No. A diploma, degree or equivalent international credential is required.
I have a degree in a different field. Can I still apply?
Yes. Eligibility depends on how your experience aligns with BNOS competencies.
I work in a different sector but want to move into the blue economy. Can I apply?
Yes. Applicants transitioning into the blue economy often begin as SBEP-in-Training if they have fewer than five years of relevant experience.
Can I apply if my work experience is from an adjacent sector?
Yes. Experience from adjacent or related industries may qualify you if your competencies align with BNOS.
What is the minimum work experience required for SBEP?
Five or more years of experience across ocean-related or adjacent industries.
What is the minimum work experience required for SBEP Specialized?
Five or more years of experience in one or more areas of specialization within the blue economy.
What is the minimum work experience required for SBEPt?
Fewer than five years of relevant experience.
Can I apply if I do not live in Canada?
Yes. SBEP welcomes international applicants. See “International Applicants” below.
Am I required to graduate from an ECO Canada accredited program?
No. Accredited programs are not a requirement for SBEP.
Do I need to pass all specialization areas to qualify?
No. Applicants may choose to pursue specialization or be certified without specialization.
What if I only have international work experience?
International experience is accepted as long as it aligns with BNOS and meets SBEP criteria.
What does it cost to apply for SBEP or SBEPt?
For Canadian applicants: Application fees are waived until April 30, 2026.
International applicants: Standard fees apply.
Standard fees:
- SBEP: $300 application fee + $230 renewal
- SBEP Specialized: $300 application fee + $230 renewal
- SBEP-in-Training: $200 application fee + $130 renewal
International applicants are charged in USD.
Are fees refundable?
Application fees are non-refundable.
Exam fees are refundable only if the exam has not been written.
When are renewal fees due?
Renewal fees are due April 1 each year.
How are renewal fees prorated?
Fees are prorated to the April 1 renewal schedule when you are first approved.
What is the Outstanding Fees Policy?
- 30+ days past due: $100 penalty and temporary removal from roster
- 60+ days past due: designation lapses
- Lapsed ≤ 3 years: eligible for reinstatement
- Lapsed > 3 years: must reapply as a new applicant
What are the fees to upgrade or add a specialization?
Upgrades follow standard Ocean Alliance Canada fee schedules.
What does the SBEP application process involve?
The certification process includes:
- Create an account in the SBEP application portal
- Complete the Eligibility Check
- Submit your fee to start your application
- Complete the Skill and Competency Self-Assessment
- Submit employment history, references and documentation
- Write the SBEP Knowledge and Ethics Exam (if required)
Final review by BECAB
What documents do I need to submit?
Your Application Package becomes available after you create an account, complete the Eligibility Check and submit your fee. It includes:
- Employment history
- Education details
- References
- Self-assessment
- Exam scheduling preferences
- Code of Ethics declaration
What is the Skill Matching Tool?
A BNOS-aligned self-assessment used to evaluate your core, technical and sector-specific competencies and determine whether you qualify for SBEP, SBEP Specialized or SBEPt.
How do I prepare for the SBEP Ethics Exam?
Review the Exam Guidelines, Body of Knowledge, and materials provided in your Application Package.
What does the exam cover?
The exam assesses knowledge of ocean governance, ecosystems, sustainability, innovation and the SBEP Code of Ethical Practice.
What happens if I fail the exam?
You may retake the exam 2–3 times per year. Additional exam fees apply.
How many times can I retake the exam?
You may retake the exam 2–3 times per year. Additional exam fees apply.
Do you offer exam accommodations?
Accommodations are available on a case-by-case basis. Contact SBEP@oceanalliancecanada.ca.
Can I submit more than one specialization?
Yes. Applicants may apply for one or multiple specialization areas.
What happens after I submit my application?
Complete applications are reviewed by the BECAB (Blue Economy Certification and Approvals Board) on the second Tuesday of each month. You will receive your results within two business days.
When do I gain access to member benefits?
After BECAB approval and confirmation of your designation.
What benefits do SBEP members receive?
Benefits include:
- International recognition
- Access to OAC and ECO Canada professional networks
- Discounts on training, events and conferences
- Mentorship opportunities
- Professional development resources
- Eligibility for awards, leadership pathways and recognition programs
Is member discount codes valid outside Canada?
Most discount codes apply within Canada only.
Does the designation include mentorship opportunities?
Yes. Members may access mentorship through OAC and ECO Canada communities.
Can I join an SBEP chapter in my region?
SBEP chapters are in development and will expand as the community grows.
When can I start using SBEP or SBEPt after my name?
How do I show my designation on LinkedIn?
How do I list my designation on my resume or email signature?
SBEP and SBEPt may be placed after your name as a post-nominal title.
Can I hold both SBEP and EP?
Yes. Designations are separate and may be held simultaneously.
Can I transfer from EP to SBEP?
No. SBEP and EP are independent pathways and cannot be transferred.
How do I upgrade from SBEPt to SBEP?
Once you meet the five-year experience requirement, you may apply to upgrade and complete the Knowledge and Ethics Exam.
How do I add specializations after certification?
You may apply to add specialization(s) at any time. Additional fees apply.
When do I need to renew my designation?
Renewal occurs annually on April 1.
What happens if my membership lapses?
You may incur penalties, be removed from the roster or lose your designation depending on how long fees remain outstanding.
How do reinstatements work?
Members who have lapsed for less than three years may be reinstated. Those lapsed for longer than three years must apply as new applicants.
How do I change my specialization?
You may request changes through your member account or by contacting SBEP support. Fees may apply.
How do I cancel my designation?
Contact the SBEP team for cancellation and reinstatement pathways.
How is SBEP different from EP?
How is SBEP aligned with the Blue National Occupational Standards (BNOS)?
Every application includes a BNOS-aligned self-assessment that evaluates your competencies against national standards developed through employer consultation, research and labour market analysis.
What sectors does the SBEP apply to?
The SBEP designation supports professionals across the full spectrum of ocean and coastal sectors, including Operations and Navigation, Science and Ecosystem Management, Technology and Engineering, Geoanalytics and Spatial Planning, Sustainable Infrastructure and offshore renewables, Fisheries and Aquaculture, Marine and Coastal Tourism, and Support and Leadership roles that enable ocean programs, communities and organizations.
Who oversees the SBEP certification process?
Who do I contact for help?
International Applicants (Additional Details)
Are international applicants eligible for SBEP or SBEPt?
Yes. SBEP welcomes applicants from anywhere in the world.
What if my education is from outside Canada?
International credentials are accepted.
Can I apply with international work experience only?
Yes. International work experience may qualify if it aligns with BNOS competencies.
Do I need Canadian work experience?
No. The SBEP is a professional credential, not a job placement program. It strengthens your qualifications and credibility but does not guarantee employment.
What documents do I need to submit as an international applicant?
After completing the Eligibility Check, international applicants can access the International Application Package, which outlines all required documents, education details and verification steps.
Can I write the exam from outside Canada?
Yes. Exams are completed online through the Absorb LMS.
How do I prepare for the exam if I am abroad?
Are fees the same for international applicants?
International fees are charged in USD.
Do I pay membership fees in Canadian dollars?
Canadian applicants pay fees in CAD. International applicants pay fees in USD.
Do I receive all SBEP member benefits outside Canada?
Most benefits apply internationally. Some, such as insurance or Canadian partner discounts, may be limited.
Which benefits are limited internationally?
Some discounts and insurance benefits apply only to Canadian residents.
How do I show the SBEP designation internationally?
Add it to your signature, resume and LinkedIn profile as a global professional credential.
Is the SBEP recognized globally?
SBEP is built on BNOS competencies and is designed as a global ocean professional designation.
Can I join Canadian SBEP chapters from abroad?
Chapters are in development. International members may be able to participate virtually as the network grows.
Where can I download the SBEP International Applicant Guide?
Resources include the SBEP Applicant Guide and the SBEP International Applicant Guide. Both are available in the Resources section.
Where can I watch the SBEP webinar?
The SBEP information webinar will be available on the SBEP website once published.
Who can I contact for international application support?
Email: SBEP@oceanalliancecanada.ca
Applications are open now, with fees waived until April 30, 2026.
Advance your career. Strengthen the global ocean economy.