World Ocean Summit & Expo

The 13th Annual World Ocean Summit & Expo 2026, organized by Economist Impact, will take place from Wednesday, March 4 to Thursday, March 5, 2026, at the Palais des Congrès de Montréal, Canada. This flagship global event brings together leaders from business, government, finance, academia, and civil society to accelerate progress toward a sustainable ocean economy. Building on the success of previous editions, the summit continues to serve as a vital platform for collaboration and dialogue among key stakeholders dedicated to protecting and restoring the world’s oceans.

The 2026 summit will focus on critical issues shaping the future of the ocean, including marine ecosystem restoration, blue finance, climate resilience, and technological innovation for ocean monitoring and protection. Discussions will also emphasize the integration of Indigenous knowledge and rights in ocean governance, alongside strategies to strengthen cross-sector partnerships spanning shipping, fisheries, energy, tourism, and conservation. The event’s agenda will include keynote sessions, workshops, and “how-to” forums designed to move beyond policy discussions and into practical, scalable action.

Objectives

• Advance a sustainable ocean economy by fostering cross-sector collaboration among business, government, finance, academia, and civil society.
• Address critical ocean challenges, including marine ecosystem restoration, blue finance, and climate resilience.
• Promote innovation and practical solutions through workshops and “how-to” forums that turn policy into action.
• Integrate Indigenous knowledge and rights into global ocean governance and management frameworks.
• Accelerate progress toward SDG 14: Life Below Water, ensuring long-term protection and sustainable use of ocean resources.

Opportunities

• Networking with global leaders and decision-makers shaping the future of ocean sustainability.
• Exploring cutting-edge technologies and innovations for ocean monitoring, conservation, and sustainable industries.
• Engaging in policy-shaping discussions and contributing to the global ocean agenda.
• Forging partnerships and collaborations across shipping, fisheries, energy, tourism, and conservation sectors.
• Showcasing leadership in sustainability and corporate responsibility on an international platform.

Benefits for Exhibitors

• Global exposure to high-level delegates, investors, policymakers, and innovators from across the blue economy.
• Brand positioning as a leader in ocean sustainability, technology, or services.
• Opportunities to generate leads and form strategic partnerships with industry and government stakeholders.
• Access to targeted audiences interested in marine technology, conservation tools, and sustainable solutions.
• Participation in networking sessions and media coverage to enhance visibility and impact.

Benefits for Delegates and Visitors

• Insightful content and expert knowledge from keynote sessions, workshops, and forums led by global ocean leaders.
• Hands-on learning opportunities in practical “how-to” sessions focused on scalable actions.
• Access to innovations and solutions showcased at the Expo to advance sustainability goals.
• Opportunities for collaboration with peers, researchers, and investors driving ocean-friendly initiatives.
• Inspiration and strategic direction to integrate ocean sustainability into professional, policy, and business practices.

The 13th Annual World Ocean Summit & Expo 2026 will serve as a pivotal gathering for global ocean leaders, driving collaboration, innovation, and action toward a sustainable blue economy. By uniting diverse stakeholders and advancing practical solutions, the Montréal summit aims to strengthen global commitment to ocean health, resilience, and the achievement of SDG 14: Life Below Water.