What is NOA 2025?
The Narwhale Ventures Ocean Challenge (NOA) 2025 is a dedicated 8-week accelerator program designed to empower sustainabilitydriven Blue Economy startups.
Our core mission is to help innovative companies gain invaluable insights and access market opportunities within the vibrant and rapidly developing Blue Economy of the Philippines.
The NOA program is free-of-charge for participating startups. Startups winners of the Pitch Competition will win a Cash prize.
Our Focus
We connect ambitious foreign and Philippines-based Blue Economy startups with the knowledge, network, and resources needed to understand and succeed in the Philippine market. If you are an incorporated Blue Economy startup passionate about sustainability and looking to explore or expand in the Philippines, NOA is for you.
Who Should Apply
We are looking for:
- Blue Economy Startups: Your core business focuses on sustainable solutions within the Blue Economy (e.g., sustainable aquaculture, marine renewable energy, waste reduction, sustainable coastal tourism, maritime transport, etc.).
- Sustainability Driven: You have a clear commitment to positive environmental and social impact.
- Incorporated Entities: Your startup is already legally incorporated.
- Philippines Market Interest: You are seriously exploring or planning to enter the market in the Philippines.
- Global & Local: We welcome both foreign startups looking to enter the Philippines and Philippines-based startups seeking to scale.
- Ready to Engage: Teams committed to participating actively in online sessions and ideally, the key in-person events.
Program Structure & Key Dates
Your 8-Week Journey to Philippine Market Readiness
- Duration: 13 May – 01 July 2025
- Format: Primalrily online via weekly expert webinars and Q&A sessions. Features essential in-person events in the Philippines at the first and final sessions.
- Online summaries/participation options will be available for startups unable to attend the in-person events
Key Dates for Applicants
- Application Deadline: 30 April 2025
- Admission Notifications: 5 May 2025
- Program Start: 13 May 2025, In-Person Opening Event, De La Salle University-Dasmariñas
- Program End: Week of 1 July 2025, In-Person Closing Event Philippines (tbd)