Wavemaker Port Innovation Awards 2026
Ports are facing growing challenges related to water quality, resource efficiency and climate resilience. Hosted by Blue Cluster as the EIT Water regional hub for Benelux and France, the Wavemaker Port Innovation Awards 2026 bring together start-ups, port authorities, investors, researchers and innovation experts to explore innovative solutions for these challenges.
During this half-day event in the beautiful coastal city of Ostend, selected start-ups will pitch their technologies to representatives from leading European ports and EIT Water experts. Participants will also have the opportunity to discover emerging innovations, exchange ideas and connect with key stakeholders from the European port ecosystem.
Following the awards ceremony, participants are also invited to join the Blue Session on Sustainable Coastal Management. This interactive session explores how innovative approaches in areas such as nature-based solutions, infrastructure, data and design can contribute to more sustainable coastal and port systems.
👉 Check out the detailed programme
| 10:00 | Registration and welcome |
| 10:30 | Start-up pitches and jury Q&A |
| 12:00 | Lunch |
| 12:45 | EIT Water introduction and award ceremony |
| 13:15 | Blue Session on Sustainable Coastal Management |
| 16:45 | Networking reception |
Are you developing an innovative solution for the ports of tomorrow?
Start-ups, scale-ups and spin-offs with solutions at Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 4–7 are warmly invited to apply for the Wavemaker Port Innovation Awards 2026. Selected candidates will receive dedicated mentoring from Blue Cluster experts before presenting their solution to a jury of leading European port and water innovation stakeholders.
This awards programme is your fast-track entry into the EIT Water ecosystem with free annual memberships. The winner will furthermore get the opportunity to pitch for a select Europe-wide group of water sector corporates and other stakeholders during the official EIT Water launch event in Malaga (all expenses paid).
Applications are open until 15 August 2026.
Interested in attending?
Join us to discover promising innovations, hear pitches from emerging start-ups and connect with representatives from ports, industry, research and investment organisations. The event offers a unique opportunity to gain insight into the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of sustainable ports in Europe.
Practical information
The event takes place on Wednesday 9 September 2026 at the Council Chamber of Ostend City Hall in Ostend. The working language is English.
Participation is free of charge and on-site only. Advance registration is required.
Need more information? Get in touch with Arnout Desmet.
About EIT Water
EIT Water is an initiative of the European Institute of Innovation & Technology (EIT) and supports education, innovation and entrepreneurship in the field of water, marine and maritime. This large European community brings together companies, research institutions and public authorities to develop and scale innovative solutions to challenges such as water quality, climate adaptation and the sustainable use of water resources.
Blue Cluster acts as the regional hub for EIT Water in the Benelux and France, supporting the development of EIT Water in the region.
