This initiative is running from April 7 to 17.
The Women in Ocean Food Africa (WIOF) program, organized by Hatch Blue in collaboration with Conservation International Ventures, has officially kicked off in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, marking its debut in Africa.
This initiative, running from April 7 to 17, brings together 11 women-led startups from across the region. It is equity-free and is sponsored by DOEN Foundation, Mustardseed Trust, and Anchor Foundation.
During these ten days, participants will meet face-to-face for the first time and take part in aquaculture site visits, investor roundtables, tailored mentoring sessions, and a Demo Day on April 17, 2026. In addition, WIOF will host a pitch showcase for regional stakeholders, partners, and investors, where each team will present its solution and funding needs.
Once the program ends, WIOF will offer practical business support, connect participants with investors, and provide ongoing guidance to help them grow their businesses.
The ultimate goal of this program is to support women's empowerment in Sub-Saharan Africa by advancing education, healthcare, and women's economic independence, while fostering inclusion in the blue economy.
"I strongly believe that empowering women through financial independence is essential. The Women in Ocean Food program supports this important goal, and we are proud to back the work it is doing," said Aino Olaisen, Founder and Chair of Anchor Foundation.
Also, Maaike Broekhuis, Program Manager at DOEN Foundation, added: "WIOF helps develop Africa's emerging blue economy sector in a way that recognizes the important role of women in coastal communities, while also promoting regenerative enterprises that restore marine ecosystems."
