Valerie de Liedekerke (AIR Centre), BlueMissionAA coordinator, presented “Funding the Future: Big Visions, Local Power” at the BlueMissionMed Support Programme Masterclass on Access to Finance, held on October 2.

The masterclass brought together experts from organizations supporting the EU Mission “Restore our Oceans and Waters” to share experiences with financing innovative solutions. Valerie De Liedekerke’s presentation addressed how to connect ambitious ocean restoration goals with effective local financing mechanisms.

The session explored key topics including support services for local innovation, limitations of traditional investment models, and innovative financing approaches. Participants were encouraged to discuss challenges faced by ocean restoration initiatives and identified gaps and regional needs in access to finance.

The event facilitated knowledge exchange between BlueMissionAA, BlueMissionMed, and other EU Mission projects working to restore oceans and waters across different regions. This collaboration reflects the shared commitment to advancing ocean restoration through innovative solutions and effective financing models.

For more information about the masterclass, visit the official webpage.