The 2026 Blue Foods Forum is drawing strong interest ahead of its February 1–2 events in Portland, with the flagship Seafaring Symposium officially sold out!
The full room reflects growing momentum around Oregon’s blue foods economy and the role ocean-based food systems play in community resilience, innovation, and regional economic development—momentum that aligns with the start of Oregon’s short legislative session, where key bills advancing the blue economy are already moving.
On Monday, HB 4086, focused on 100% fish/industrial symbiosis, has a hearing in the House Economic Development, Small Business and Trade Committee, while SB 1525, which would establish a Blue Economy Task Force, had its first read in the Senate Environment and Energy Committee and is awaiting a hearing. These concurrent policy and industry conversations underscore the timeliness of the Forum, providing a platform for dialogue that connects innovation, business, and legislation.
Yesterday, Marcus Hinz, Executive Director of the Oregon Coast Visitors Association, appeared on OPB’s Think Out Loud to discuss the Forum and the growing importance of coastal seafood systems, tourism, and ocean innovation in Oregon—bringing statewide attention to the conversations taking place through the Blue Foods Forum.
Join the conversation:
While the Seafaring Symposium on Monday, February 2 has reached capacity, there are still limited tickets available for the Seafaring Speakeasy on Sunday evening, February 1 at The Redd. The Speakeasy serves as an immersive kickoff to the Forum, blending ocean-inspired art, crafted bites, and inventive beverages that celebrate Oregon’s coastal flavors and the people shaping its blue economy.
Take Action:
Make your voice heard! Write a short paragraph about why 100% matters to you and your work, and share it with us [industry@thepeoplescoast.com]. We will collect it as part of testimony from Oregon Coast partners to help move these bills forward.
About the Blue Foods Forum
The Blue Foods Forum brings together investors, producers, policymakers, chefs, researchers, and creatives to explore regenerative, land-to-sea food systems that strengthen Oregon’s food resilience and coastal economies. With strong participation, growing media visibility, and legislative developments underway, the Forum signals a turning point in Oregon’s blue foods conversation—moving discussion toward actionable partnerships, innovations, and impact.