Ocean Assets Institute

Our non-profit association conducts research and engagements with financiers on all blue economy sectors.

Clients have included the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, The European Commission, UNEP, UNEP-FI, UNDP.

A Selection of Published Reports

Financing the Blue Economy in Asia-Pacific

2022, 2023

Authored this study for ADB, UNDP, UNEP on mapping the blue economy funding gap in MSME in Asia-Pacific.

Turning the Tide: How to finance a sustainable ocean recovery

2019

A practical guide for financial institutions navigating the blue economy. Ocean Assets authored the report's chapter on Shipping & Ports finance.

EU BlueInvest Platform

2018

Commissioned by the European Commission to map SME blue economy funding across Europe. Successfully established the BlueInvest Platform

ASPBAN: Atlantic Strategic Ports Blue Accelerator Network

2022

Establishing governance and funding networks to create a hub for European ports.

Pacific Ocean Finance Program

2020

This report explores how bond structures can increase resilience of Pacific communities, generating sustainable economic development opportunities across the region.

Investment Readiness Toolkits

Our comprehensive guide for SMEs raising capital

These documents provide the narrative of the Investment Readiness Toolkit (“the Toolkit”) for SME BlueImpact Asia. This initiative was established by a consortium of Asian Development Bank (ADB), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

In 2022, the consortium produced the Blue Economy Knowledge Product (BEKP) —Financing the Blue Economy which called for a blended finance initiative to mobilise investment for a sustainable blue economy focusing on Small-Medium Enterprises (SMEs). SME BlueImpact Asia is executed primarily by Ocean Assets Group (OAG), with support from the consortium of ADB, UNDP and UNEP.

Recommendations for actions and resources are designed to help SMEs in the blue economy to efficiently raise capital in today’s marketplace. Each section includes detailed step-by-step guidance, sample pathways and documents. Links to supporting experts and institutions will also be provided should SMEs need to seek additional support. Users may access the sections most relevant to their needs.

It is our hope that this Toolkit will speed up the financing of sustainable enterprises upon which the coastal communities and global marine ecosystems of depend.

1. Understanding the SME Finance Environment

Please use this opening section of the Toolkit to be aware of the key aspects that influence the ability to raise capital, how to think strategically, engage essential partners and manage risks ahead of the financing decision.

2. Raising Debt Finance Strategies

Debt finance can be considered by SMEs in certain situations, but it may not always be the right choice. This document outlines some factors to consider when deciding whether to pursue debt finance or to explore alternative options.

3. Raising Equity Finance Strategies

It's important to carefully consider your specific needs, growth plans, and the trade-offs associated with equity financing. Understanding the implications of equity finance and conducting thorough due diligence on potential investors are crucial to making informed decisions about the best financing options for the business.

4. Understanding Impact Metrics

Impact metrics matter in fund raising for SMEs because they provide measurable evidence of the social and environmental impact generated by the business. Incorporating impact metrics into the fundraising process allows SMEs to demonstrate their commitment to sustainable and responsible business practices, which can significantly enhance their attractiveness to impact investors and socially conscious lenders.

5. Developing Effective Business Presentations

Below is a step-by-step guide on how to create a business plan for fundraising. An effective investor presentation should be tailored to your audience, highlighting the aspects of your SME that are most relevant and compelling to potential investors. It should be concise, well-structured, and visually appealing to capture and maintain the attention of investors throughout the presentation.

6. Sample Documents & Guides

This Toolkit includes formative examples of Executive Summaries, pitch deck resources, business projection examples, and more.

7. Selection Criteria

Toolkit-7 documents the project selection criteria used by SME BlueImpact Asia. The criteria is organised into two distinct categories: 1) Eligibility criteria: To be considered for the program, and 2) Bankability criteria: To be approved by the program.