Oregon Ocean Cluster
Blue Foods Forum
The blue foods forum is the oregon ocean cluster flagship event.
The Blue Foods Forum brings together policymakers, impact investors, funders, producers, nonprofits, researchers, creatives, and community organizers to accelerate solutions that advance policy and investment for sustainable blue food systems, and unlock actionable pathways toward a resilient, equitable food future.
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“Blue foods” are foods that come from the water—seafood, shellfish, sea vegetables, algae, and other foods rooted in ocean and freshwater ecosystems. In Oregon, they sit at the intersection of our working lands and waters, linking agriculture, rivers, ports, tribes, fishermen, processors, and coastal towns.
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We are halfway through the United Nations Decade of Action—ten years to transform our world. At the same time:
Global food demand is projected to rise by up to 60% by 2050
Kelp forests and marine ecosystems are rapidly declining
Working waterfronts and food producers are navigating ecological change, market shifts, and the need for long-term economic resilience.
The ocean holds the key. A truly ocean-inclusive food system can:
Provide nutrient-dense, low-carbon protein
Restore ecosystems through regenerative aquaculture
Strengthen coastal economies and food security
Sustain working waterfronts and coastal jobs
The Seafaring Speakeasy is designed to spark connection and curiosity.
This elevated, immersive, ocean-inspired experience blended crafted bites, ocean-centric art, and inventive beverages that celebrated Oregon’s coastal flavors and the people shaping its blue economy.
The Blue Foods Forum Seafaring Symposium brings attendees together for a full day of active learning and industry exchange.
Attendees leave with clear connections and next steps to take action in new work streams, innovations, partnerships and more.