Eligibility note: This edition of the studio is for women-led ventures in Latin America and the Caribbean, and it takes place in Mexico. It isn’t open to African founders. Hatch Blue ran its first Women in Ocean Food studio in Africa in 2026, so watch for a future African edition. In the meantime, see the opportunities open to Africans at the end.
Hatch Blue, an aquaculture investor and accelerator, and Conservation International Ventures are accepting applications for the Women in Ocean Food Innovation Studio 2027 (Latin America and the Caribbean). It’s an equity-free business support programme for women founders and leadership teams building companies in the blue economy.
The programme starts with a 9-day in-person studio in La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico, from 25 January 2027, followed by 12 months of support. Travel, accommodation and meals are covered for up to two people per team. Applications close on Saturday 7 November 2026.
At a Glance
| Organisers | Hatch Blue and Conservation International Ventures |
| Who it’s for | Women-led blue economy startups, entrepreneurs and community leaders |
| Region | Latin America and the Caribbean |
| Location | La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico (9-day studio) |
| Starts | 25 January 2027 |
| Cost | Free and equity-free; travel, accommodation and food covered for 2 people per team |
| Deadline | 7 November 2026 |
Sectors Covered
- Sustainable and regenerative aquaculture
- Marine biotech and aquatech
- Seafood value chains
- Seafood waste revalorisation
- Blue carbon
Benefits
- Strategic business support on market intelligence, go-to-market, business and fundraising strategy, and pitching to investors
- One-to-one mentorship from global industry leaders and the Hatch Blue and Conservation International Ventures teams
- Access to a global aquaculture and blue economy network and alumni community
- Quarterly follow-ups for 12 months after the studio, plus support at key industry events
- Introductions to venture philanthropists and impact investors
- Possible follow-on investment from Hatch Blue and Conservation International Ventures for companies that are ready and fit their criteria
- A Community Day on the final day, where selected finalists pitch to partners and investors
There’s no equity investment during the programme itself.
Eligibility
- Ventures that are led by women, founded or co-founded by women, or where women are true decision-makers.
- Based in Latin America and the Caribbean.
- You don’t need a registered company to apply, but you should be ready to register one by the end of the programme.
- Teams that have been through another accelerator can still apply.
- At least one, ideally two, co-founders must attend the whole studio in person.
- Teaching is in English and Spanish, with live interpretation.
- Some nationalities need a visa for Mexico. Visas are at your own cost, but the programme provides an invitation letter.
How to Apply
- Read the programme page and FAQs on Hatch Blue’s website (link below).
- Complete the online application form.
- Submit before Saturday 7 November 2026.
Official Women in Ocean Food (Latin America and the Caribbean) page · Application form
