Ocean Impact Organisation

Ocean Impact Organisation (OIO) is an Australian-based accelerator dedicated to fostering businesses that positively impact ocean health. Launched in March 2020 by co-founders Nick Chiarelli and Tim Silverwood, OIO serves as Australia's primary ocean impact innovation ecosystem and startup accelerator. The organisation's core purpose is to transform ocean health through inspiration, innovation, and good business, operating with a founder-first, solutions-focused, and impact-driven approach.

OIO works with individuals, early-stage startups, and entrepreneurs who are developing solutions for the sustainable blue economy, particularly within the Asia-Pacific region. Their comprehensive suite of programs includes the Ocean Impact Accelerator Program, the Ocean Impact Ideation Program, and OIO Boost, all designed to support founders through various stages of their entrepreneurial journey. These initiatives provide crucial investment, mentorship, and connections to customers, partners, and OIO’s global community.

The organisation's genesis stems from the complementary backgrounds of its founders: Nick Chiarelli, a chartered accountant with extensive startup experience, and Tim Silverwood, an award-winning career environmentalist. Their collaboration, which began in 2018, was driven by a shared vision to bridge the gap between profitable business and positive environmental impact. OIO has rapidly grown from humble beginnings in a Manly co-working space to boast a geographically diverse team and a global network of startups and supporters.

A key achievement for OIO is the support provided to 99 startups and entrepreneurs since launching in 2020 through to December 2023. OIO has also set an ambitious goal to facilitate $100 million of funding for ocean-related ventures. They have invested in 16 startups across four core 'Ocean Solution Areas' since 2022, demonstrating a tangible commitment to advancing solutions in ocean pollution, climate, habitat and biodiversity, and food security. The organisation's leadership includes CEO and Co-founder Nick Chiarelli, Co-founder and Head of Marketing and Community Tim Silverwood, and Innovation Programs Manager Elisa-Marie Dumas, supported by a diverse board.