Western Australia's blue economy is gaining momentum, creating new opportunities for businesses working in marine, maritime, defence, subsea, offshore, aquaculture and ocean technology industries. A new initiative, the Blue Economy Innovation Platform (BEIP), has been established to help innovators, investors, industry and government connect, collaborate and commercialise new solutions.
BEIP is a coordinated, multi-partner initiative designed to strengthen Western Australia's position as a global leader in ocean technologies. Acting as a single entry point into the state's marine and maritime innovation ecosystem, the platform supports businesses from early-stage concept development through to investment, market entry and export growth.
Supporting innovation across the blue economy
The platform responds to growing demand from organisations developing technologies and solutions for sectors such as marine science, aquaculture, defence, offshore energy, subsea operations and coastal management. It also helps connect investors and customers with innovative solutions addressing commercial, environmental and productivity challenges.
BEIP is built around a clear mission: to advance technology and innovation in sustainable blue economies while strengthening industry, protecting marine environments and creating economic opportunities. Its vision is for Western Australia to become a recognised national and international leader in blue economy innovation.
How BEIP works
The platform brings together specialist partners to deliver support at different stages of the innovation journey:
Gravity - Diagnosis and navigation
Gravity serves as the front door to the platform. Businesses, innovators and investors receive an initial assessment to identify their needs and are then connected with relevant support services, facilities, education programs, research organisations and industry networks.
Propel - Incubation and acceleration
Propel provides structured incubation and accelerator programs to help businesses strengthen their commercial readiness. Support includes mentoring, investment readiness, customer engagement, export preparation and market-entry assistance.
Dock - Landing and launchpad
Dock helps Western Australian businesses access international markets while supporting overseas investors and innovators looking to connect with opportunities in WA. Services include market matching, international missions, introductions and access to coworking, testing and research facilities.
Community and Events
A year-round program of showcases, salons, conferences, festivals and networking events helps strengthen industry connections, promote collaboration and showcase innovation occurring across the sector.
Who can benefit?
BEIP has been designed to support a broad range of stakeholders:
- Innovators, startups and SMEs seeking mentoring, technical support, investment opportunities and access to customers.
- Investors looking for quality deal flow and opportunities within the ocean and maritime sectors.
- Industry organisations wanting to solve operational challenges through innovation and technology adoption.
- Government agencies and local governments focused on economic development, job creation, export growth and defence capability.
- Research and infrastructure providers seeking stronger industry collaboration and commercialisation pathways.
Why this matters for Cockburn
The City of Cockburn is uniquely positioned within Western Australia's growing blue economy. Home to the Australian Marine Complex, key defence and maritime industries, coastal assets and the proposed Henderson Research and Innovation Hub, Cockburn is at the centre of significant investment and growth in marine and defence-related sectors.
Through its partnership with BEIP, the City is helping local businesses access world-class innovation support, new industry connections, investment opportunities and international market pathways. The initiative also aligns with the City's commitment to growing local jobs, attracting investment and strengthening Cockburn's role as a leading blue economy and defence industry hub.
Looking ahead
During its first year, BEIP aims to support accelerated and incubated ventures, facilitate investment and export opportunities, engage industry partners and connect hundreds of participants through workshops, showcases and events.
For local businesses operating in marine, maritime, defence, offshore, ocean technology and related industries, BEIP provides a valuable pathway to access expertise, networks and opportunities that can help turn innovative ideas into commercial success.
Visit the
BEIP website to learn more.
Interested in opportunities within Cockburn's blue economy sector? Contact the City's Economic Development team to learn more about upcoming BEIP programs, events and opportunities for local businesses.