Welcome to the PORT

About Blue Futures Pathways

Blue Futures Pathways is an initiative of the SOI Foundation. The program connects young people aged 15-35, as well as those in the first ten years of an ocean-related career, with education, training, mentorship, employment and funding opportunities that inspire and support them in exploring successful careers in the emerging Sustainable Blue Economy.

In line with SOI’s mandate, Blue Futures Pathways (BFP) places particular emphasis on under-represented young people, and activities that support those in remote and rural areas. BFP also offers partner organizations a platform to communicate opportunities, as well as support to employers and educators wishing to engage and retain young people along their pathways.

BFP is an officially endorsed action of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development. In 2024, the Canadian node of the UN Early Career Ocean Professional program, ECOP Canada, was officially brought under Blue Futures Pathways.

This site, known as the Portal for Opportunities, Resources and Talent (PORT) is the digital one-stop shop for the Blue Futures Pathways and ECOP Canada programs. Click below to learn about Phases I, II & III and check back often for interactive learning resources, inspiring stories, internships, jobs, training, wage subsidies, stipends and the opportunity to develop leadership skills.

Charting the Sustainable Blue Economy in Canada

This crowd-sourced resource maps organizations, employers and young professionals working in the Sustainable Blue Economy. Take a look, discover opportunities near you, and put yourself on the map!