BLU Connects with Fort Lauderdale’s Ocean Innovation

South Florida’s connection to the ocean extends far beyond its coastline. It is a powerful driver of innovation, research, economic opportunity, and collaboration, and that potential was at the center of Tower Forum’s “Introducing Fort Lauderdale’s Ocean Cluster,” presented by Florida Atlantic University.

Melissa Garcia Villa, BLU Marketing Director and Board Chair of Tower Forum, alongside Margo Petersen, BLU Corporate Partnerships Manager, attended the September 8 event to learn more about this important initiative and the opportunities it could create for the region.

The conversation, moderated by Colin Polsky, Ph.D., Associate Vice President of FAU’s Broward Campuses and Professor of Geosciences, featured Alison Barlow, CEO of the St. Pete Innovation District, and Kim Gavin, CEO of BLUEIQ. Together, they explored how Fort Lauderdale can bring businesses, universities, researchers, investors, government agencies, and military partners together to build a coordinated, globally competitive ocean cluster.

The discussion touched on marine innovation, autonomous and dual-use ocean systems, national security and defense technology, research, investment, workforce development, and the economic opportunities an ocean cluster could create for South Florida.

One of the most fascinating takeaways came from Gavin, who shared an unexpected fact: coral reefs chirp. These underwater sounds can offer insight into reef activity and health, and emerging technology may one day let people experience these ocean soundscapes in an entirely new way, even as a playlist.

The event was a compelling reminder of the innovation happening right here in South Florida and the value of bringing diverse industries and perspectives together. For BLU, staying engaged in conversations like these creates opportunities to learn, build meaningful relationships, and stay connected to the people and ideas shaping our community’s future.