Youth as drivers of the Blue Economy

The future of our planet depends on how we manage one of our most precious resources: water. Across Europe, water-dependent regions are facing increasing challenges—climate change, pollution, overuse of resources, and economic pressures. But with these challenges also come opportunities. This is where the Blue Economy comes in: a framework that promotes sustainable use of ocean and freshwater resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and environmental health.

At the heart of this transformation are young people. Youth not only inherit the environmental challenges of today, but also bring fresh ideas, creativity, and passion for shaping a sustainable future. By connecting entrepreneurship with water sustainability, young changemakers can build innovative businesses and initiatives that create both social and economic impact.

Why Blue Entrepreneurship matters

Blue entrepreneurship means using creativity and business skills to design solutions that protect water ecosystems while also supporting community well-being. It can take many forms:

• Developing eco-friendly water technologies

• Creating social enterprises for water conservation

• Raising awareness through innovative campaigns

• Launching sustainable tourism initiatives

These ventures are more than just business opportunities—they are tools for climate action, resilience, and community empowerment.

How FLOWGEN supports youth in Blue Entrepreneurship

The FLOWGEN project was created to give youth the skills, confidence, and platforms to turn their ideas into reality. Here’s how we’re making it happen:

1. Training & skills development

   • Through capacity-building workshops and online learning (via SALTO and HOP platforms), youth and youth workers gain practical knowledge in sustainability, water justice, and entrepreneurship.

   • The training is interactive and action-driven, focusing on real-world applications rather than abstract theory.

2. Youth-led blue ventures

   • In Work Package 4, youth will design and implement community-based sustainability initiatives. These Blue Ventures will tackle issues like water conservation, marine protection, and sustainable business models.

   • Each project will be supported by trained youth workers who act as mentors, ensuring that the initiatives are feasible and impactful.

3. Recognition through microcredentials

   • Youth participating in FLOWGEN receive microcredentials and Youthpass certificates, validating their entrepreneurial skills.

   • These certifications are recognized across Europe, helping young people strengthen their employability and mobility.

   • 
     

From training to real impact

What makes FLOWGEN unique is its focus on hands-on impact. Instead of stopping at knowledge, the project pushes youth to create tangible solutions in their local communities. For example:

• A group of youth may design a local water conservation campaign in schools.

• Another team may launch a social enterprise that promotes sustainable fishing or eco-tourism.

• Others may develop advocacy initiatives that influence local water policies.

By the end of the project, at least four Blue Ventures will be launched across partner countries, directly engaging youth and impacting local communities.

Building Europe’s Next Generation of Blue Leaders

FLOWGEN is more than a project—it’s a movement of young innovators across Europe. By combining entrepreneurship, sustainability, and education, the project creates pathways for youth to actively shape the future of the Blue Economy.

With partners from Slovenia (Kersnikova), Greece (LATRA), Hungary (Youth Bridges Budapest), and Spain (Esplai Social), FLOWGEN connects diverse expertise and experiences. Together, we are empowering youth to become leaders of change—locally, nationally, and across Europe.

Blue Entrepreneurship is not just about business—it’s about reimagining the future With FLOWGEN, young people gain the tools to create sustainable solutions, strengthen their communities, and make water justice a reality.

Stay tuned for updates on our youth-led Blue Ventures, and follow our journey on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to see how Europe’s youth are driving the Blue Economy forward.