Oceans of Opportunity

Letter from Florida Atlantic President

Few places in the world are as closely tied to the ocean as Florida. From our working waterfronts and bustling ports to fishing, tourism and recreation, the ocean is not just a natural asset; it is a cornerstone of our state’s economy and identity.

Recognizing this, Florida Atlantic University is proud to serve as the home of the state’s new Office of Ocean Economy, a state-supported effort to better understand, support and grow the ocean- and coastal-based industries that drive jobs, investment and innovation across our state.

The ocean economy is vast, diverse and full of opportunity. It encompasses sectors like maritime transportation, coastal construction, seafood production, ocean technology and so much more. But like any major economic engine, it requires sound data, thoughtful planning, and coordination among the private sector, academic institutions, non-government partners, investors and government. That’s where the Office of Ocean Economy comes in.

This office exists to catalyze sustainable growth in Florida’s ocean economy, helping ensure that our natural resources continue to fuel job creation, business expansion and long-term prosperity. Its work is grounded in common-sense principles: advancing smart investment, reducing risk to coastal infrastructure and supporting industries that make Florida competitive nationally and globally.

Florida has long benefited from the strength of its coastal geography and maritime resources. Now, with the Office of Ocean Economy, we have a strategic platform to harness those assets intelligently, responsibly and in a way that delivers measurable returns for Florida families, workers and businesses.

We are grateful to the State of Florida for its support and vision and we look forward to working alongside our partners to cultivate an ocean economy that delivers opportunity, security and prosperity for every Floridian.

Sincerely,
Adam Hasner
President, Florida Atlantic University

Sign Up For Our Newsletter

Be part of a growing community shaping the future of Florida’s ocean and coastal industries. Join our mailing list to stay connected with events, opportunities, and partnerships that drive innovation and sustainability across the Blue Economy.

Join our mailing list

Workforce Innovations Network (WIN)

Learn how the Workforce Innovations Network (WIN) supports the talent pipeline fueling Florida’s growing blue economy.

Annual Reports Highlight the Strength of Florida’s Ocean Economy

Florida Atlantic University has published the second Annual Report for the Florida Office of Ocean Economy, a state initiative dedicated to strengthening Florida's ocean and coastal-based industries. The report highlights the continued growth and impact of Florida's ocean economy, showcasing key accomplishments, industry trends, research, workforce development efforts, and strategic initiatives that are helping position Florida as a global leader in ocean-linked industries.

2026 FOOE Annual Report

2025 FOOE Annual Report