about oio

Ocean Impact Organisation is transforming ocean health through inspiration, innovation, and investment.

Our Mission

To support and accelerate ocean impact businesses.

Our Vision

To unlock $100M of funding for ocean health solutions with a focus on Asia Pacific.

who we are

Ocean Impact Organisation (OIO) is based in Australia, with a focus on Asia Pacific. We believe entrepreneurs, researchers, and innovators hold the key to solving the greatest challenges facing our ocean. By connecting science, business, and capital, we create the conditions for ocean solutions to thrive.

what we do

We support startups, researchers, and founders at every stage of their journey, from ideation and pre-acceleration through commercialisation and growth, with mentorship, education, and access to capital. We also design industry-led innovation challenges and build global partnerships that drive measurable impact.

nick chiarelli

Co-founder & CEO

our team

Elisa-Marie Dumas

Head of Global Programs & Partners

sid Bhogaraju

Program & Community Coordinator

sarah cooper

NZ Program & Community Lead

Kali rainbow

Accounts & Admin Support

board of directors

Prof. peter steinberg

nick chiarelli

Elisa-Marie Dumas

advisory group

Dr. Catherine Ball

Associate Professor ANU, Entrepreneur, Futurist.

OceanImpactOrg-About-MichaelVN.png

Michael Van Niekerk

Partner & Chief Impact Officer, Inspire Impact

Lynda Coker

Experienced Non-Executive Director, Advisor and Startup Mentor

David Redhill

Strategic consultant, Ex-Global CMO, Deloitte Consulting

Tom Kline

Climate Tech investor, Partner at Climate Tech Partners

Kathy Hoyt

Strategy, Impact & Innovation Advisor

John Preston

Marine Conservationist, Media Advisor & Mentor