Blue Economy Initiative

Innovation, Investment, and Impact 

The Port is working to grow the blue economy along our 7.5-mile waterfront by offering discounted lease rates and other assistance for qualifying, blue economy organizations. The blue economy includes organizations that sustainably use the Bay and coastal resources to deliver economic, environmental, and community benefits for Bay Area residents. 

San Francisco Bay is home to world-leading technology, innovation, investment, and environmental organizations. By partnering with community groups, businesses, researchers, and government partners, we can create new opportunities, support local jobs, and protect our Bay for future generations. 

Join us as we build a stronger, healthier, and more sustainable waterfront through the Blue Economy Initiative. 

Press Release

Program Information

Goal

Partner with blue economy organizations to encourage innovation, attract investment, and create positive impact along San Francisco's waterfront. 

Focus Areas

  • Sustainable seafood ecosystem - Support local fishing, seafood harvesting, processing, and distribution in ways that protect natural resources and support local businesses. 

  • Ecotourism - Make the waterfront a great place to visit through environmentally responsible tourism and outdoor experiences. 

  • Clean energy - Help move maritime operations toward cleaner energy and lower emissions to improve air quality and fight climate change. 

  • Bay health - Support projects that improve water quality, restore habitats, and strengthen the health of the Bay. 

  • Workforce development - Use technology, including artificial intelligence, to improve waterfront operations and encourage new ideas and innovation. 

  • Digital transformation - Create opportunities for people to learn maritime and waterfront skills for future careers. 

  • Partnerships & innovation - Work with businesses, community organizations, researchers, and investors to grow the blue economy and create lasting benefits for San Francisco. 

Support for Partners

The level of support will vary based on project needs and available Port resources. Participants may receive:

  • Access to Port-owned pilot sites and facilities at discounted rates 
  • Introductions to industry, academic, and investment partners 
  • Permitting and regulatory coordination 
  • Technical guidance from Port staff 
  • Opportunities to participate in program ecosystem, events, showcases, and more 
  • Connections to grant and funding opportunities 

How to Apply

1. Schedule an Orientation (Optional). Review the process and, if needed, email blueeconomy@sfport.com to schedule a brief orientation with staff.

2. Submit an application. You must upload a pitch deck (PDF only with no more than 12 slides) that includes:

  • Proposed project or technology 
  • Organization’s mission and activities and how they relate to the program focus areas
  • Expected environmental, economic, and community benefits
  • Funding status and financial needs 
  • Team qualifications 
  • Specific request from Port (if applicable) which may include: required permits, key organizational timelines, physical space needs, among others

Applicants should exercise caution when sharing proprietary, trade-secret, or otherwise privileged information. Documents in the Port’s possession may be subject to public disclosure under the Sunshine Ordinance (Chapter 67) and the California Public Records Act.

3. Initial Review. Applicants may be asked to provide additional information or meet with the Review Team. Applications are evaluated on: 

  • Clear alignment with the program focus areas 
  • Feasibility and readiness
  • Environmental benefits 
  • Economic and workforce benefits 
  • Partnership opportunities 

4. Executive Review. Selected applications are presented to Port executive leadership for final consideration. High-value or long-term leases require approval from the Port Commission and the Board of Supervisors. 

Blue Economy Initiative
blueeconomy@sfport.com
Webform

Blue Economy Initiative Application

Check the focus areas that relate to your business and proposal. Select as many as apply.
If you need to use Port property, select your desired location(s).
The presentation should include:

  • Proposed project or technology 
  • Organization’s mission and activities and how they relate to the program focus areas
  • Expected environmental, economic, and community benefits
  • Funding status and financial needs 
  • Team qualifications 
  • Specific request from Port (if applicable) which may include: required permits, key organizational timelines, physical space needs, among others
One file only.
20 MB limit.
Allowed types: pdf.
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