Welcome to Brilliant Blue,
a global marine innovation challenge inspired by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Our mission is to empower teens around the world to develop cutting-edge technology that enhances the future of our oceans and our planet.

Brilliant Blue encourages young innovators to push boundaries, embrace fresh ideas, and collaborate on transformative solutions. By fostering creativity and sustainability, we aim to make a lasting impact on marine ecosystems and beyond.


Brilliant Blue champions the engagement and education of youth in understanding the importance of maritime stewardship and the sustainable use of ocean resources. As an initiative within Brilliant Labs, it upholds the core principles of fostering innovation and technological fluency, with a special emphasis on the blue economy, in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs). Our mission is to ignite a passion for the world’s oceans and waterways, equipping youth with the skills and knowledge necessary to effect meaningful change in marine conservation and oceanic industries.
Highlighting the blue economy's pivotal role, Brilliant Blue emphasizes the synergy between environmental health and economic progress. The challenge is designed to prepare young people to become influential in maritime sustainability, nurturing an appreciation for the ocean's resources and the importance of their preservation. Through education and innovation, we aim to cultivate a ‘Blue Generation’ of future leaders and innovators.
Jeff Willson
Executive Director, Brilliant Labs

I’m thrilled to introduce Brilliant Blue, a competition designed to inspire young minds like yours to develop groundbreaking marine technology solutions for a better future. As our oceans face increasing challenges, we need bold, creative ideas to protect and sustain them—and that’s where you come in!
Through this competition, you’ll have the chance to explore, design, and innovate technologies that can make a real impact on marine conservation, sustainability, and exploration. Whether it’s biodegradable materials, AI-driven ocean monitoring, or new energy solutions, we want to see your vision for a smarter, healthier ocean.
Are you ready to take on the challenge? Stay tuned for more details, and let’s make waves together!
Omar Hussein
Brilliant Blue Director


Why
Brilliant Blue
A Quadruple Win Scenario
YOUTH
Create awareness and interest in the ocean industries, develop skills, and provide educational and career opportunities
PUBLIC SECTOR
Inclusive talent development, attraction, and retention
PRIVATE SECTOR
Access to an early talent pipeline and open the door to new entrepreneurial activities/opportunities
ACADEMIA
Attract new Canadian and international students to ocean programs

A STEM Ed program to

EMPOWER YOUTH

SUPPORT OCEAN INDUSTRIES

CONTRIBUTE TO THE BLUE ECONOMY

Overview
Navigating Brilliant Blue Competition

The inaugural competition ran over 12 weeks and culminated in an all-day, virtual event held on December 16th, 2023 using an online platform. Immediatly followed by our 2024 event totalizing:

The inaugural competition ran over 12 weeks and culminated in an all-day, virtual event held on December 16th, 2023 using an online platform. Immediatly followed by our 2024 event totalizing:
- 48 TEAMS
- 37 COUNTRIES
- 100+ STUDENTS
- 25+ MENTORS

How important is the blue economy?
7X
Fish biomass is 7 times greater than all livestock, supporting life on Earth through our vibrant oceans.
71%
The ocean covers 71% of the Earth's surface.
97%
Our oceans contain 97% of the Earth's water.
4 Trillion
The global ocean economy is projected to grow to $4 trillion CAD by 2030 (OECD, 2016).
Resources
Oceans provide resources like fish, minerals, and renewable energy.
Climate Change
Oceans regulate climate by absorbing and transporting heat and CO2.





United Nations
OCEAN DECADE
The challenge themes will support the ocean decade's outcomes:
- A clean ocean
- A healthy and resilient ocean
- A productive ocean
- A predicted ocean
- A safe ocean
- An accessible ocean
- An inspiring and engaging ocean
An activity endorsed by:

United Nations
OCEAN DECADE
The challenge themes will support the ocean decade's outcomes:
- A clean ocean
- A healthy and resilient ocean
- A productive ocean
- A predicted ocean
- A safe ocean
- An accessible ocean
- An inspiring and engaging ocean
An activity endorsed by:

