Three Pacific Island countries are amongst the 40 finalists from across the globe to pitch to investors at the Fish 2.0 Innovation Forum.

The Forum will take place on November at the Stanford University in America, a culminating event in the Fiji 2.0 2017 competition for sustainable seafood businesses.

Prior to this event, the Fish 2.0 workshop was held in Suva last year.

Out of the 184 entrants, 40 finalists were selected based on their market traction and high potential for impact in the seafood sector.

The three finalists that will represent the Pacific Islands are:

• Didao Fishing Company, Solomon Islands
• Shepherd Islands Organic Seafood, Vanuatu; and
• Indigo Seafood, Palau

The Pacific Trade Invest Australia (PTI Australia), sponsors of the Forum, were thrilled with the selection of the three Pacific Island countries.

PTI Australia general manager investment and tourism Chad Morris said PTI Australia understands the importance of the ocean and sustainable fishing to the Pacific Islands which is why they got behind Fish 2.0 bringing the competition back to the Pacific Islands.

“To see how the enterprises have developed and grown since the Fish 2.0 workshop held in Suva, Fiji last year is immense.

“PTI Australia decided to come onboard as a sponsor for Fish 2.0 as we could see the value for Pacific Island fishing enterprises. The opportunity that’s ahead for the three Pacific Island finalists is huge. We will be travelling to Stanford and will run a preparatory workshop for the Pacific Island finalists to ensure they are ready to make the most of this opportunity,” said Mr Morris.

Shepherd Islands Organic Seafood owner, Obed Timakata said: “I was overwhelmed when I got the news that I’m a Fish 2.0 2017 competition finalist.

“I am very grateful for all the support provided by Pacific Trade Invest Australia in bringing back Fish 2.0 to the Pacific. It’s an absolute valuable program indeed.

“I’m very excited to be representing Vanuatu at the 2017 Fish 2.0 Innovation Forum Finals in November.”

At the Innovation Forum, the 24 highest scorers will give 3-minute pitches to panels of expert judges.

They will present in four groups: ventures taking pressure off wild fisheries; aquaculture production and related technologies; transparency, traceability and fisheries technology; and supply chain innovations, including new paths to market for fishers.

The winners will receive cash prizes.

The remaining 16 finalists will give 90-second pitches directly to the audience of 300 seafood experts and investors who come to Fish 2.0 to share knowledge and find opportunities.

In addition, all finalists are eligible for ICX (Industry Connection) prizes, which provide exceptional networking and mentoring opportunities.

About Fish 2.0

Fish 2.0 connects seafood businesses and investors to grow the sustainable seafood sector.

Working through our unique global network, competition platform and events, Fish 2.0 participants collaborate to drive innovation, business growth and positive impact.

Entrepreneurs meet potential investors, partners and advisors who help them accelerate impact and growth.

Investors and advisors get early access to investment opportunities and learn about emerging technologies and trends. And industry leaders gain direct access to sustainable seafood suppliers and partners.

Feedback:  monica.aguilar@fijisun.com.fj