SeaCras has been adopted to One of 1,000 Ocean Startups initiative, joining a global community of companies working to develop and scale solutions for a healthier ocean.
Led by 1000 Ocean Startups and World Economic Forum, the initiative connects some of the most promising ocean innovators with a wider ecosystem of investors, accelerators, competitions, matching platforms and organisations supporting ocean impact. By strengthening connections between promising technologies, investment and organisations capable of putting them into practice, the coalition also gives greater visibility to solutions already demonstrating how innovation can contribute to healthier and more resilient ocean ecosystems.
The coalition’s ambition is clear: help scale at least 1,000 transformative startups by the end of the UN Ocean Decade and contribute to the restoration of ocean health and the objectives of UN Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water.
SeaCras was invited to join the initiative during the 2025 UN Ocean Conference in Nice, where its solutions were showcased at both the World Economic Forum (WEF) booth and the Digital Twin of the Ocean booth.
For us, being included among these companies is both an important recognition of our work and an opportunity to contribute to a much wider movement.
From Ocean Innovation to Scalable Environmental Impact
Protecting marine and coastal ecosystems increasingly depends on turning scientific knowledge and new technology into solutions that can work at scale. Below are a few examples of our work where we can point to clear, measurable environmental impact and tangible results:
The recognition also reinforces the importance of collaboration in addressing challenges that extend far beyond individual organisations, sectors or borders. No single technology or company can solve the pressures facing marine ecosystems. Progress depends on an ecosystem of solutions that can complement one another and scale.
We look forward to contributing to that ecosystem and continuing to turn innovation into practical tools for better ocean management.
SeaCras’s position is that the future of scalable and improved global marine monitoring is digital and from space. That is why we are committed to pushing forward the much-needed technologies behind the 1 of 1000 Ocean Startups and OceanEye initiatives.
One solution will not save the ocean. But 1,000 might.
The Institute for Water ‘Josip Juraj Strossmayer’, in partnership with SeaCras, has developed a new system that combines satellite observations with field measurements to support more comprehensive, next-gen water body monitoring. More precisely, the monitoring of inland, coastal waters as well as the open sea.
The approach makes it possible to monitor a large number of water bodies at the same time, from large and small rivers to lakes, water reservoirs, fish ponds and accumulation lakes, coastal areas and seas. By connecting remote sensing data with traditional field monitoring, the system can evaluate biochemical and physical parameters defined by Water Framework Directive (WFD) and Marine Strategy Framework Directives (MSFD). Also, the system helps to detect rapid changes of water quality earlier and provide a clearer picture of how aquatic ecosystems respond to environmental pressures and protection measures. Especially important aspect is cross-border monitoring to assess what migrates to Croatian waters from upstream in the Danube river system, as well as from territorial waters of neighbouring countries at the Adriatic sea.
Just under a year ago, we signed a cooperation agreement with the Josip Juraj Strossmayer Water Institute. Today, partners are introducing a new generation of satellite-based monitoring for the condition of dynamic and stationary water bodies by cutting-edge technology, which puts Croatia in the top performing countries.
By monitoring the quality of riverine systems and streams in Croatia, SeaCras is able to record human impacts within the national territory, as well as transboundary influences that may affect water conditions upstream and downstream. This allows for the first time to evaluate the effect of the river system on its endpoints – seas and lakes.
Similar technologies are already being applied in several European countries, including Germany, Finland and Sweden. Through this cooperation, we have launched an advanced water monitoring technology we can be proud of — a best-in-class solution developed through domestic expertise and production.
From the Drava River to Broader Water Monitoring
The first demonstration was carried out on the Drava River, following the launch of one of Croatia’s largest wastewater treatment plants. According to the Water Institute, the comparison of conditions before and after the facility began operating showed early signs of improvement in water quality, while satellite observations confirmed the findings gathered through field monitoring.
The analysis recorded changes in several indicators used to assess ecological pressure and eutrophication in river ecosystems, which refers to excessive nutrient enrichment, mainly from nitrogen and phosphorus compounds, which in turn causes algal blooms. These parameters are important for understanding how nutrients and other pressures affect aquatic environments, particularly in relation to algal growth and overall ecosystem balance.
High spatial resolution also enables the system to go beyond major rivers and lakes. It opens the possibility of monitoring smaller waterways as well, supporting more detailed assessments at local, national and cross-border levels.
Satellite view of the distribution of chlorophyll-a concentrations in the Drava River near Belišće, produced in collaboration between the Josip Juraj Strossmayer Water Institute and SeaCras.
Better Data for More Confident Decisions
For water management, this marks an important shift. Investments in environmental protection can be assessed not only through the infrastructure built, but also through measurable changes in the environment itself. By combining satellite data and field measurements, decision-makers can better understand what is happening in the water after interventions are made.
The same approach has strong potential for wider use across the Adriatic and other coastal areas, which has already proven to be successful in coastal areas such as Zavrtnica and Jablanac. It can support the monitoring of coastal urbanisation, wastewater treatment impacts, river inflows, climate-related pressures and individual events that leave visible traces in water or the sea.
For SeaCras, the collaboration reflects the growing role of satellite-based intelligence in protecting water ecosystems. By turning complex environmental data into practical information, the system can support earlier detection, stronger evidence and more informed decisions for the sustainable management of rivers, lakes, coastal areas and seas.
SeaCras CEO Mario Špadina, PhD, joined global leaders in Dalian, China, for the World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting of the New Champions 2026, widely known as Summer Davos.
Held from 23 to 25 June under the theme “Innovating at Scale”, the meeting brought together more than 1,800 leaders from business, government, academia and international organisations across more than 200 sessions, according to the World Economic Forum.
SeaCras participated in a curated program organised by Uplink, World Economic Forum’s early-stage innovation engine. Sessions included Uplink network members and alumni, but also invited representatives of governments, IGOs, NGOs, and companies. The name of the game was to find a way to bridge the gap between existing environmental societal and economical hurdles by Theory of Change.
Dalian was also a particularly relevant setting for SeaCras, being one of China’s major maritime centres, and the visit included several important moments:
invited visits to the leadership of the city and region of Dalian
a visit to Dalian Maritime University
a national television interview with Mario on bringing oceanographic science closer to business, decision-making, and environmental management
For SeaCras, World Economic Forum’s UpLink network member, the gathering was a valuable opportunity to bring coastal and marine technology into a wider conversation about how innovation moves from promising ideas to practical systems that support economies, communities and the environment.
But before we go into more details about the event, let’s remind you of what Summer Davos is.
AMNC26 and Why Is It Called ‘Summer Davos’
Often described as Summer Davos, the Annual Meeting of the New Champions is the World Economic Forum’s flagship China-based gathering, established in 2007 to spotlight entrepreneurship, innovation, emerging economies and the companies shaping the next generation of global growth. Its name links it to the Forum’s winter meeting in Davos, while reflecting its summer timing and stronger focus on technology, new business models and Asia’s changing economic landscape.
For China, it is an important platform for presenting its economic priorities and engaging with international leaders, while globally it helps frame how developments across China and Asia may influence investment, innovation and growth worldwide. The meeting alternates between Dalian and Tianjin, two major coastal cities that have become integral to its identity: Dalian brings the international outlook of a leading port and innovation hub, while Tianjin reflects the industrial strength and strategic importance of northern China.
The Annual Meeting of the New Champions has become one of the World Economic Forum’s leading global platforms for science, technology, entrepreneurship and next-generation growth companies. This year’s programme focused on how emerging technologies, shifting markets, advanced manufacturing, AI, energy transition and global competitiveness can shape the next phase of economic progress.
SeaCras’ Active Role at the AMNC26
Our CEO represented SeaCras throughout the event, returning from Dalian with new connections, new perspectives and stronger momentum for the work ahead. As part of the UpLink – World Economic Forum network, Dr. Špadina took an active role in conversations on how technological progress can move from global discussion to practical use, especially in areas where oceanographic science, business, decision-making and environmental management increasingly meet.
Being featured in this year’s UpLink Annual Impact Report as one of only 11 case studies is a strong validation of the direction SeaCras is taking. For us, it confirms that our work in marine and coastal monitoring is creating measurable value and gaining recognition on a global stage.
It also reflects the momentum behind SeaCras: a growing team, stronger technological capabilities and partnerships that are bringing environmental intelligence into real-world monitoring systems. More than a milestone, this recognition reinforces our ambition to make reliable, scalable environmental data a foundation for better decisions worldwide.
As part of the AMNC26 programme, Mario also attended the UpLink Welcomeand UpLink Dinner. The visit also included several important moments connected to Dalian’s role as one of China’s major maritime centres, including:
Invitation to present our company at Dalian District Government Office for the expert delegation
Invitation to visit Dalian Ocean University
Our CEO’s interview with China’s television network, discussing how oceanographic science can better support business, decision-making, and environmental management
Together, these moments brought oceanographic science closer to the institutions, businesses, and decision-makers shaping one of China’s key maritime regions.
Scaling Innovation for Coastal and Marine Resilience
The theme of this year’s meeting, “Innovating at Scale”, closely reflects the challenge SeaCras works on every day: turning complex environmental data into reliable insight for the people responsible for protecting coastal areas, ports, marine ecosystems and blue economy assets.
From satellite-based monitoring to AI-supported environmental analysis, coastal technology is no longer a niche topic. It is becoming part of how destinations, public institutions and private operators understand risk, measure impact and make better decisions around the sea.
Being present at AMNC26 gave SeaCras the chance to connect its work with a broader global agenda: one where innovation is expected to leave the conference room and prove its value in the real world.
For us, Dalian was not only a meeting point for technology and policy. It was a reminder that the future of coastal resilience will depend on collaboration across sectors, borders and disciplines, and on solutions that can work where they are needed most.
Over the past six months, SeaCras has been part of Batch 6 of the CASSINI Business Accelerator, one of Europe’s leading growth programmes for space-based startups and scale-ups. The experience provided us with valuable mentorship, business development support, and connections that will continue to shape our future growth and international expansion.
CASSINI is the European Union’s entrepreneurship initiative for the space sector, designed to support companies that leverage EUSPA-managed EU space services. The programme brings together startups and scale-ups from across Europe that are applying space technologies to solve real-world challenges in fields ranging from climate resilience and environmental monitoring to logistics, mobility, agriculture, security, and public services.
The CASSINI Business Accelerator is part of the European Union’s broader effort to strengthen innovation and entrepreneurship in the space sector. Led by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Defence Industry and Space (DG DEFIS), the initiative helps startups and scale-ups transform space-based technologies into successful commercial businesses.
CASSINI builds on the capabilities of the EU Space Programme, whose services—including Copernicus Earth observation and Galileo satellite navigation—are managed and promoted by EUSPA, the European Union Agency for the technological leadership.
Over a six-month period, participants work closely with experienced entrepreneurs, investors, business developers, and sector specialists to strengthen their commercial strategies and prepare for international growth.
Building on Previous Collaboration with the CASSINI Ecosystem
SeaCras’ relationship with the European space ecosystem extends beyond the accelerator itself. As a company built around the application of satellite Earth observation data and artificial intelligence for marine environmental and maritime monitoring, we have long been active within European space initiatives.
Our participation in the CASSINI Business Accelerator represented a natural next step in strengthening our commercial capabilities and expanding the reach of our technologies.
Over the years, SeaCras has demonstrated that advanced Earth observation solutions can successfully address real-world environmental and operational challenges for ports, marinas, municipalities, national parks, tourism operators, and maritime industries throughout the Mediterranean region and Europe.
The accelerator provided an opportunity to build on this foundation and prepare for our next stage of growth.
What We Learned and Achieved
One of the most valuable aspects of the programme was its strong focus on practical business development.
Throughout the accelerator, we worked closely with experienced coaches and mentors who challenged our assumptions, helped refine our sales strategy, and provided new perspectives on scaling a deep-tech company internationally.
The programme helped us improve several key areas:
Sales strategy and sales process development
Market positioning and customer acquisition
International business development
Partnership development and ecosystem building
Scaling strategies for global expansion
Investor and stakeholder communication
Equally important were the relationships established with fellow Batch 6 companies. The accelerator brought together startups from different sectors, technologies, and countries, creating opportunities for cross-sector collaboration and future innovation.
Many of these connections have already evolved into discussions around joint projects, technology integration, and future business opportunities.
For SeaCras, this reinforced an important lesson: innovation rarely happens in isolation. The most impactful solutions are often created when expertise from different sectors and disciplines comes together.
The Next Chapter for SeaCras
While the accelerator programme has come to an end, its impact is only beginning.
SeaCras has already proven that satellite Earth observation technologies can be successfully adopted across Mediterranean and European markets. Through our Coastal Intelligence platform, we continue to demonstrate how high-resolution satellite imagery and artificial intelligence can support environmental monitoring, pollution detection, marine management, and climate resilience.
Our next objective is to expand beyond Europe and bring these capabilities to new international markets.
The knowledge, tools, and connections gained through CASSINI will play an important role as we continue scaling our solutions globally and developing new applications of Earth observation technologies for the blue economy and environmental intelligence sectors.
Looking Ahead
We would like to thank the entire CASSINI team, EUSPA, DG DEFIS, our coaches and mentors, and all fellow Batch 6 companies for an exceptional experience.
The programme may be over, but the journey is only beginning.
Global Innovation Summit 2026 — From European-funded R&D project to Real-World Marine Intelligence Product used globally
Basel brought together an international innovation community for the Global Innovation Summit 2026, organised within Eureka Network, the world’s largest network for collaborative innovation.
SeaCras’ CEO Mario Špadina, PhD, joined the Croatian delegation, supported by HAMAG-BICRO – Croatian Agency for SMEs, Innovations and Investments, which helps companies turn research, technology and business potential into market-ready growth.
For SeaCras, the event was also closely connected to a wider Eureka success story. Eureka Network currently features a project led by SeaCras as one of Croatia’s flagship examples of how international R&D cooperation can help move advanced technology from research into operational use.
The product’s development was funded through the Eurostars project Sar2dem, where SeaCras developed a next-generation, two-way detection system for fuel spills and leakages. By combining optical and SAR satellite data, the system leverages a wide range of sources, from medium-resolution Sentinel constellations to high-spatial-resolution commercial imagery.
This matters because marine pollution detection is becoming more than an environmental issue. For ports, maritime authorities, cruise destinations, coastal communities and blue economy stakeholders, it is also an operational, reputational and compliance challenge.
SeaCras’ work shows how satellite data, AI-powered analysis and marine science can be turned into practical coastal intelligence — helping stakeholders detect pollution earlier, understand what is happening at sea and respond with greater confidence.
We also acknowledge the role of and thank HAMAG-BICRO in supporting the successful management and completion of the project.
This year’s Global Innovation Summit focused on biotech and enabling technologies around it, including digitalisation, translational R&D, chemistry, manufacturing, control and quality processes. For companies working at the intersection of science, technology and real-world environmental challenges, gatherings like this matter because innovation rarely moves forward in isolation. It advances through international cooperation, shared expertise and the right networks around the table.
Recognition of SeaCras by Eureka Network
That same logic is reflected in SeaCras’ recent recognition by Eureka Network, which featured the company as a Croatian example of how collaborative R&D can turn advanced marine technology into operational coastal intelligence. The recognition highlights SeaCras’ Eurostars-supported work in detecting and tracking ocean fuel spills – a capability increasingly important for ports, maritime authorities, coastal destinations and industries that depend on cleaner, safer and more resilient waters.
For organisations operating across the blue economy, fuel spill detection is no longer only an environmental topic. It is also an operational, reputational and compliance challenge. Small leaks, thin surface films and sudden pollution events can be difficult to identify quickly, especially in complex coastal waters where traditional monitoring may struggle with resolution, coverage and response speed.
SeaCras addresses this gap by combining satellite imagery, AI-powered analysis and marine science expertise. Instead of treating Earth observation data as a distant technical layer, the company turns it into actionable coastal intelligence that helps stakeholders understand what is happening at sea and decide what to do next.
From European R&D Support to Operational Marine Pollution Monitoring
Through the Sar2dem project, funded by Eureka Network, SeaCras strengthened its ability to detect oil and fuel pollution in territorial and coastal waters using Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 data, supported by additional commercial satellite sources where higher spatial or temporal resolution is needed. This makes the approach relevant for ports, marinas, bays, shipping routes and nearshore areas where early warning can limit environmental and economic damage.
“Eurostars helped us not only by providing much-needed funding in the product development phase, but SeaCras also benefited from the network visibility and proof of excellence. Furthermore, SeaCras utilised the Horizon IP Scan service, which was included as the part of the package of services for grant awardees.”
Mario Špadina, founder and CEO at SeaCras
This support helped SeaCras strengthen not only the technology itself, but also the strategic foundation around it, from visibility and credibility to intellectual-property readiness. For partners and clients, that matters. It signals that SeaCras’ solutions are rooted in validated R&D, shaped by international collaboration and developed with a clear path toward practical deployment.
Today, SeaCras’ Coastal Intelligence helps stakeholders improve marine pollution monitoring, support response planning and build stronger evidence for sustainable marine management. For ports, cruise destinations, maritime transport operators, public authorities and coastal communities, the value is clear: earlier detection, better insight and more confidence when decisions must be made quickly.
