Latin American Women Empowered by Women in Ocean Food Studio

The "Women in Ocean Food" (WIOF) Innovation Studio is now taking proposals for its second episode, themed "It's time for more Women in Ocean Food." The program, headed by Hatch Blue and backed by a number of partners, aims to create a platform for women interested in developing and expanding their enterprises in the blue economy.

To remove financial obstacles to participation, the WIOF Innovation Studio provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity for up to two participants from each team, with all expenditures connected to housing, food, and transport paid. The application deadline is in less than a month, giving potential entrepreneurs plenty of time to apply.

Participants who are chosen will get mentorship from industry professionals, introductions to venture philanthropists and impact investors, and the opportunity of follow-on investments from Hatch Blue and CI Ventures. A translation service will guarantee that both Spanish and English speakers are included.

Wayne Murphy, Hatch Blue's co-founder and studio director, emphasized the studio's search for women who are building successful businesses that promote ocean prosperity and local food systems, including blue food producers, climate-friendly production methods, and economic opportunities for coastal communities.

Hatch Blue later invested in Blue Pond Group, a seaweed-based feed supplement firm, and included it in their accelerator program as a result of the inaugural WIOF studio in Bali.

Applicants from Latin America and the Caribbean working on seaweed innovation, aquaculture, seafood processing, conservation technologies, and other related fields are welcome to apply.

The Builders Initiative, iAlumbra, Schmidt Marine, Aquaculture Stewardship Council, The Beyster Foundation, and Conservation International have kindly supported the "It's Time for More Women in Ocean Food" studio. The program's influence is already being seen throughout the continent, and the future of female leadership in Latin America's blue economy appears to be brighter than ever.