Participate now in the hybrid course "Financing Sustainable Blue Economy and Integration of Policies and Development"

This course, "Financing Sustainable Blue Economy and Integration of Policies and Development," is designed to provide local and foreign students with a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted maritime economy, its significance in global and European contexts, and the policies that shape its future. As we delve into the intricate relationship between economic development and environmental sustainability, students will gain valuable insights into how to finance and manage the sustainable use of ocean resources. As students, you will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to the sustainable management of ocean resources, ensuring that the Blue Economy thrives for generations to come.

Methodology:

Hybrid class in real time.
The course is conducted primarily through an expository teaching method, employed both by Professor Ruben Eiras and by a selection of guest experts who specialize in various relevant topics. These guest speakers bring a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience, enriching the learning environment and providing students with diverse perspectives.

Student Project: Pitch Development

In addition to the expository teaching method, a significant component of the course involves the development of a student-led project. Throughout the duration of the course, students work collaboratively in groups comprising 3 elements to create a pitch for a project on Sustainable Blue Economy that encapsulates their learning and insights gained from the various topics discussed. This project serves as a practical application of the theoretical knowledge acquired during the course, class by class.

Final Presentation to Expert Panel

The culmination of this project takes place during the final session, where students present their projects to a panel of experts, real life investors. In this context, students have the opportunity to showcase their creativity, critical thinking, and presentation skills.

Important dates:
Enrolment until: 13^th February.
Start: 19 February, 2026
Finish: 24 April 2026 (TBC)
Schedule: Fridays, 18h00-21h00 WET

Criteria for Application
Only students from EUTOPIA universities can apply. Each application complies 3, third year Bachelor’s students or Master’s Students and the identification of a local teacher that will be in charge of this group.
In the application for participation in the course, the assessment of academic merit is based on two key components, which contribute to the overall evaluation of each applicant. The first component, Academic Merit, accounts for 30% of the total assessment, while the second component, Motivation and Justification, constitutes 70% of the evaluation criteria.

Two of the selected groups are invited to come to Lisbon and pitch their projects in the room, with travelling and accommodation expenses assured.
 

All applications must fill the FORM below and send to the email: nova.inov.ped@unl.pt the following documents in pdf:

• Justification for Group Participation. 
• Motivation Letter.
• Verifiable documentation of the academic records of all team members.

FORM: Financing Sustainable Blue Economy and Integration of Policies and Development 2026 – Preencher o formulário

COURSE STRUCTURE

CHAPTER 1 - MEGA TRENDS OF BLUE ECONOMY, FINANCE, INNOVATION AND DEVELOPMENT POLICIES
1.1 Blue Economy Finance and Investment in the context of the «triple transition»: Geopolitics +Digital Transformation + Energy for Climate Change
1.2. Blue Investment and economy trends overview: blue economy value chains and interplay with Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, Carbon Markets
1.3. Development policies 1: the essential about Integrated Maritime Policy of European Union
1.4. Development policies 2: an essential overview of UN and International Ocean Policies (OECD)


CHAPTER 2 - FINANCE FOR NON-FINANCIERS: HOW TO OPERATIONALIZE FINANCE STRATEGIES FOR BLUE ECONOMY

2.1. Core concepts of Finance Instruments 1: Private mechanisms
2.2. Core concepts of Finance Instruments 2: Public mechanisms - European funds of central, national and regional management
2.3. Catalytic Finance Strategies for Sustainable (ESG) Blue Economy: how to blend public mechanisms with private mechanisms


CHAPTER 3 - OCEAN BLUE FINANCE4DEVELOPMENT LAB

3.1. Open innovation tools for designing blue finance for development solutions: Core concepts about business models + Learning how to use business canvas + Michelin Movin'On Forecast methodology. Class is organized in 4-5 people teams. A different challenge will be addressed to each team.
3.2. Each Team presents their solution proposals to a jury panel of finance entities: Faber, CGD, EIB, Front Capital
3.3 Final lecture with a guest speaker: Stephan Morais, CEO of INDICO Capital Partners

The final presentation not only serves as a platform for students to demonstrate their understanding and application of the course material but will also provide them with invaluable experience in public speaking and professional presentation. The expert panel consists of individuals with extensive knowledge and experience in the relevant fields, who will evaluate the pitches based on criteria such as innovation, feasibility, and presentation quality.