During an online sequence, researchers or university labs will be able to pitch their latest results and upcoming research programs concerning the applications of AI to ocean sciences and for which they might need data sharing, industry partnership or sponsorship, fundings or support.
Through those pitches, the objective is to encourage “matchmaking” between university lab programs and members of the Sustainable AI Coalition or organisations interested in the topics. The Research Pitch aims to build bridges between research and industry to encourage innovation in key areas such as ecosystem monitoring, pollution control in the ocean, conservation of marine ecosystems, etc.
Following the launch of the Ocean and AI vertical at the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC-3), the Research Pitch on AI for Ocean aims to highlight the potential of AI research and innovation serving ocean protection.
On November 13th, 2026 and December 3rd, 2026
13 November | 3:00–5:05 PM CET
3:00 PM — Welcome & Introduction
Introduction to the Sustainable AI Coalition, the AI & Ocean Vertical, and the AI for Ocean Research Pitch.
3:10 PM — Building Foundational Databases with AI
- Aaron Rice, Cornell University
- Abigail Grassick, Cornell University
4:00 PM — Using AI Models to Complement Physical Models
- Jozef Skakala, Plymouth Marine Laboratory
- Adrien Stella, Université de Bretagne Occidentale
- Arya Paul, INCOIS
5:00 PM — Closing remarks
3 December | 4:00–6:05 PM CET
4:00 PM — Welcome & Introduction
Introduction to the Sustainable AI Coalition, the AI & Ocean Vertical, and the AI for Ocean Research Pitch.
4:10 PM — Digital Twins
- Sébastien Villon, CERFACS
- Marjolaine Matabos, IFREMER
5:00 PM — AI and Cetacean Protection
- Ted Cheeseman, University of California
- Rob Williams, Oceans Initiative
- Alejandra Varga, NVT South Africa
6:00 PM — Closing remarks
Each research pitch will include a 15-minute presentation followed by a 5-minute Q&A session.
Who Should Attend?
The Research Pitch on AI for Ocean is open to all organizations, companies, philanthropic foundations, NGOs, local communities, and stakeholders passionate about leveraging AI for ocean sustainability. Whether you’re a funder, industry leader, nonprofit, or community representative, this event is your opportunity to:
- For Donors & Philanthropic Foundations: Connect with cutting-edge researchers whose projects align with your grantmaking priorities. Explore co-funding opportunities, discover innovative solutions ready for scaling, and engage directly with scientists to maximize your impact.
- For Industry & Private Sector Partners: Identify academic collaborators for joint R&D projects, gain early access to emerging AI tools and methodologies for ocean data analysis, and align your ESG or sustainability goals with high-potential research initiatives.
- For NGOs & Civil Society Organizations: Team up with researchers to strengthen your projects with scientific rigor or discover academic partners who can make scientific use of the on-the-ground data ou are gathering.
- For Local Communities & Advocacy Groups: Learn about AI-powered solutions that address ocean challenges and explore ways to bring these innovations to your region.
- For Policy Makers & Government Representatives: Gain insights into how AI can inform ocean governance, support evidence-based decision-making, and connect with experts driving innovation in marine conservation and .
No matter your background, your participation can help turn research into real-world impact. Join us to discover, collaborate, and support the next generation of AI-driven ocean solutions.At the conclusion of the pitch session, all attendees will receive a detailed list of the presented research projects, including their specific needs (funding, partnerships, data, etc.) and contact information, enabling you to easily connect with the teams whose work aligns with your interests.
What You Can Bring?
Participants are invited to play an active role in the event. Beyond discovering innovative research projects, they can help foster valuable connections and contribute to the development of concrete, impactful solutions.
- Provide feedback: Share your insights and comments during the Q&A sessions to help the teams refine their projects.
- Offer support: Whether through mentorship, partnerships, funding, or technical resources, your involvement can help accelerate the development of these initiatives. Following the session, you will be able to contact selected teams directly. We would also be delighted to facilitate introductions where needed.
- Share the initiative: Help raise awareness of the event and the researchers’ work within your communities. Communication materials and key social media messages will be shared in the lead-up to the event.
Should you have any additional question, please reach out to contact@sustainableaicoalition.org
More Research Pitches to Come…
