The Blue Economy and Finance Forum (BEFF), held on June 7–8 in Monaco as part of the UN Ocean Conference, concluded with a remarkable wave of momentum: €25 billion in existing blue investments identified and €8.7 billion in new financial commitments secured…
Organized by the Princely Government, the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, and the Oceanographic Institute, with backing from France and Costa Rica, the BEFF brought together 1,800 participants from nearly 100 countries, including heads of state, investors, NGOs, and global business leaders.
Over just two days, the Forum catalyzed tangible commitments and forged a long-term vision for a sustainable ocean economy. New pledges include €4.7 billion from philanthropists and private investors and €4 billion from public financial institutions, representing a major step forward in blue finance.
Structural initiatives were also launched. These include the “Philanthropists and Investors in Ocean” alliance focused on high-impact projects in the Global South, and the #BackBlue coalition of financial actors managing $3 trillion in assets. Meanwhile, 80 companies from 25 countries signed the “Business in Ocean” call to action, committing to transparent and ocean-positive practices.
HSH Prince Albert II declared, “Everything is now in place to make the major turning point our ocean requires and the world expects.” He emphasized that this Forum laid the foundation for a credible, actionable financial coalition, proving that an ambitious and responsible blue economy is not only possible — it is essential.
With participation from seven heads of state and over 1,000 organizations, the BEFF demonstrated that when political, financial, and social actors align, transformation is possible. Monaco has firmly positioned itself as a hub for ocean action, financing the future of a regenerative blue economy with clarity, urgency, and hope.
Photo: Prince’s Palace
