By Karen Robes Meeks
Washington’s first maritime accelerator to assist and develop local maritime firms has been launched by partners Washington Maritime Blue, the Port of Seattle and WeWork Labs.
“The Port of Seattle is committed to investing in maritime innovation, drawing from the diversity of our region’s expertise, to create jobs of the future that fuel a thriving economy which advances our understanding and protection of the marine environment and all those dependent on it,” said Port of Seattle Commissioner Fred Felleman. “I look forward to being inspired by the first round of applicants for the accelerator that I’ll be reviewing in my capacity as Vice President of the Port of Seattle Commission and Board Member of Maritime Blue.”
WeWork Labs is seeking applicants who are interested in creating solutions that help the maritime economy. Applications need to be submitted by Nov. 18.
The Maritime Blue advisory committee will review and choose 10 startups that will take part in the first accelerator cohort, set to begin in January 2020.
Chosen companies will benefit from a four-month intensive programming from WeWork Labs\. They will be housed at WeWork Labs and get access to WeWork Labs’ global network of mentors and advisors.
In April, the participating startups will pitch their ideas to the public, investors and government officials.
