Academy of Technologies Grand Prizes 2026: Technologies in the service of marine ecosystems

A unique opportunity for innovative startups

The Academy of Technologies is launching the 2026 edition of its Grand Prizes on the theme "Technologies in the service of marine ecosystems", in partnership with the Naval Academy. This third edition of the multi-year theme "Technologies in the service of ecological transition" highlights the ocean: its exploration, its knowledge, and the decarbonization of maritime uses.

The ocean covers 78% of the planet and acts as a formidable lung for it. It supports multiple human activities, and yet only 2% of the ocean is known to us. In this context, the Grand Prizes of the Academy of Technologies aim to spotlight technological initiatives aimed at better exploring and understanding the ocean, but also at promoting the decarbonization of human activities at sea and around the sea.

This opportunity is aimed at young innovative companies created less than 8 years ago, carrying technologically innovative projects in the oceanographic or maritime field.

Two thematic categories

This edition will award two Grand Prizes in the following categories:

Prize 1: Technologies for ocean exploration and knowledge

• Development of sensors and monitoring systems for marine ecosystems;
• Artificial intelligence and big data for oceanographic data analysis;
• Satellite observation (optical, radar) by traditional or micro-satellites;
• Depth probes and deep-sea exploration technologies.

Prize 2: Innovations for decarbonization of maritime uses

• Ship propulsion: motorized and/or wind-powered;
• Decarbonization of uses (port stays, infrastructure, logistics, etc.);
• Ship routing and knowledge of marine currents;
• Wind propulsion technologies: masts, kites, soft or rigid sails.

Eligibility and evaluation criteria

Eligible applicants:

• Companies created less than 8 years ago as of the call for applications launch date;
• Entities with their registered office or secondary establishment in France;
• Companies able to present a K-Bis extract;
• Startups developing a technologically innovative project with clear economic perspectives.

Evaluation criteria:

• The innovative character and maturity of the proposed technology or service;
• Team quality;
• Project economic perspectives and growth potential;
• Employment creation prospects and social benefits;
• Environmental impact of developed technologies;
• Gender diversity within teams.

Prizes: funding and mentorship

Winners will benefit from:

• €15,000 funding per category (divided equally in case of co-winners);
• One-year free mentorship by a member of the Academy of Technologies for each finalist;
• Exceptional visibility during the Prize ceremony on May 21, 2026 in Paris, in the presence of participants from education, research, industry, public authorities, and press;
• Networking opportunities with domain experts and decision-makers.

This event will give the floor to experts and offer valuable networking opportunities for the development of winning startups.

How to apply

The call for applications is open from January 15 to February 17, 2026 at midnight.

The application file must include the following elements:

• Detailed company description (owners, economic data, workforce);
• K-Bis extract;
• Organization chart and CEO presentation;
• Description of the innovative character of the product or service;
• Technical description, history, and market launch;
• Commercial strategy elements and financial information;
• Competition analysis and intellectual property.