Center for Ocean Enterprise
Gulf BlueSM at Gulf & Ship Island Building
Big Ideas Out of the Blue
The Gulf BlueSM initiative brings “Big Ideas Out of the Blue,” capitalizing on our geography and
maritime resources and positioning the Mississippi Gulf Coast to lead the development
of world-changing innovation. Gulf BlueSM pools the knowledge of research scientist, federal agencies, industry partners and
entrepreneurs to further develop the region as a global leader in ocean- and maritime-related
technologies.
The historic Gulf & Ship Island Building is the centerpiece of the Gulf BlueSM initiative and features collaborative workspace for global blue tech innovators to call home while developing solutions for global challenges. Innovators have access to The University of Southern Mississippi’s research scientists, local partners, and federal agencies, working together to bring new technologies and products to market faster. Downtown Gulfport provides convenient access to the Port of Gulfport, rail, interstates, and the Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport. USM’s presence at the Gulf & Ship Island Building is managed by the USM Research Foundation.
The Gulf BlueSM Navigator Program connects blue tech startups with program management, infrastructure,
and funding to shorten development time and catalyze economic growth.
