Sea-Deep in Innovation

Plymouth is quickly becoming a leader in the Commonwealth’s blue economy.  With aquaculture, robotics, R&D, and AI at our shores, Plymouth’s 37 miles of coastline is ideal for growing the blue economy. Our region supports the entrepreneurs, policymakers and investors who want to solve problems and create jobs.

Last year’s conference was focused on showcasing the Now and Next of Plymouth’s Marine Economy. We introduced guests to new and emerging technologies that support our traditional marine economy and discussed management of marine resources in sectors such as fisheries, and aquaculture, sanctuaries, cultural heritage, energy, and climate adaptation.

This year, Blue2 will explore advancements in Marine Tech, Aquaculture and Workforce Development – trust us, it’s a lot of exciting news!  We’re also adding new sessions for Climate Resiliency and a Public Policy Roundtable with experts and decisionmakers. Our goal is to inform, entertain, and connect you, so that you come away with new ideas and relationships that benefit you and your mission. Day 1 will conclude with a special networking event at Cork + Table.  America’s Hometown Celebrity Chef will prepare delicious food using ingredients that are conventionally ugly – like snapper, skate, kelp etc.  The plants and animals included in the menu are locally sourced, abundantly available, healthy and inexpensive!

All guests at the Ugly Fish Networking Event will receive a complimentary apron with our Conference Logo on it.  Space is limited, so reserve your ticket ASAP!

Speaking of logo…!  Because of the outpouring of support and positive feedback following our inaugural conference last year, we decided to hire a figurehead.  Did you know Plymouth has an original Sea Serpent myth?!  It’s true.  In 1857, Henry David Throeau spent time in Plymouth, and recorded the Sea Serpent myth in his journal:

“It seems it was first seen in the bay between Manomet and Plymouth Beach, by a perfectly reliable witness…One morning he saw this monster, with a head somewhat like a horse’s raised some six feet above the water, and his body the size of a cask trailing behind.”

Thoreau goes on to say that this description answers the common account of the creature.  Meaning, this thing was seen by quite a few folks and there was a consistent profile for what people saw.  Since the sea serpent never seemed to hurt anybody, we decided what better way to capture the imagination of people than ask Thoreau if he wanted to join the Conference team.  Oh, by the way, we named him Thoreau.  This year, we will have merchandise featuring Thoreau, such as sweatshirts, hats, beach-bags and other novelty items. All sales support the Blue Future Conference.

Who Should Attend

• Owners/employees of traditional marine businesses
• Owners/employees/investors of Marine Tech businesses
• Local and State officials interested in advancing Marine Economy in their areas
• High School Teachers and Students interested in entering the Blue Workforce
• Colleges interested in promoting their technology, engineering and other adjacent skills to this industry and future students
• College Professors and Students who want to learn more about opportunities in Marine businesses
• Lenders who want to know more about supporting the Marine Economy
• Anyone interested in our Marine Economy and its future