- September 18th, 2026
- Westin Nova Scotian, Halifax, NS
INNOVATION SHOWCASE
A Curated Platform Highlighting Ocean Innovations Ready for Scaled Impact
Where Canada's Ocean Solutions Take the Stage
The SBES Innovation Stage is where emerging ideas, breakthrough technologies, and practical solutions take the spotlight. Designed as a dedicated platform for startups, researchers, and industry innovators, the stage connects new ideas with the people who can help move them forward, including decision-makers, investors, partners, and leaders across the blue economy.
From live presentations to industry networking, the Innovation Stage creates opportunities to build visibility, spark collaboration, and showcase solutions with real potential to scale.
- Live Innovation Presentations
- Startup and Exhibitor Visibility
- Investor and Industry Connections
- Networking Opportunities
- People’s Choice Award
Meet the SBES 2026 Innovators
Format
Live stage presentations
(8-10 minutes each)
Exhibitor booth in the Innovation Track for direct engagement
Audience voting for People’s Choice Award
What Selected Innovators Receive
Selected innovators are positioned at the center of the Summit’s innovation showcase hour, presenting directly to a senior audience of industry leaders, investors, and policymakers while gaining maximum visibility.
Exhibitor Booth Presence
Dedicated exhibitor booth in the innovation track
Innovation Stage Presentation
Featured presentation on the Innovation Stage (8 to 10 minutes)
Summit-Wide Visibility
Visibility across Summit communications and on-site materials
Direct Industry Engagement
Direct engagement with industry, investors, and partners
People’s Choice Award Eligibility
Eligibility for the People’s Choice Award
Eligibility
Applications will be assessed based on the level of innovation, relevance to the blue economy, technical readiness, scalability and market potential, climate and sustainability impact, and clarity of the value proposition.
Ocean-Based Solution
Must be directly connected to the ocean or coastal economy
Climate & Sustainability Impact
Clear contribution to environmental or climate outcomes
Stage of Development
Beyond concept, with validation, pilots, or early traction
Organization Type
Startups, SMEs, and growth-stage organizations prioritized
Stay Connected for Future Opportunities
Join the OAC mailing list to be among the first to hear about upcoming partnership, sponsorship, exhibitor, and Innovation Stage opportunities across OAC events.
Stay connected as new opportunities open to showcase your organization, share your work, and engage with leaders across the ocean sector.
"*" indicates required fields