The Ocean Foundation

Name

The Ocean Foundation

Legal name

The Ocean Foundation

Website

https://oceanfdn.org

Company type

Private

Founded year

2003

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

11–50 employees

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Ocean Conservation Philanthropy

NAICS

Grantmaking Foundations (813211), Environment, Conservation and Wildlife Organizations (813312), Grantmaking and Giving Services (81321)

SIC

Services-Membership Organizations (8600)

akta.pro primary industry

Environmental & Climate Grantmaking Foundations (BPAGAKAM)

akta.pro secondary industries

Marine & Freshwater Conservation (BPAGAGAE), International Grantmaking & Development Foundations (BPAGAKAH), Oceans, Coastal & Marine Resource Management (BPADALAI)

Keywords

• Ocean conservation grantmaking
• Fiscal sponsorship services
• Marine habitat protection
• Environmental philanthropy services
• Community foundation programs

Headquarters

HQ city

Washington

HQ country

United States

HQ region

North America

Offices1 record

Markets served

GTM type

B2B and B2C

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Operations, Marketing or Sales, Others

Revenue model

1. Donations and Charitable Contributions: The Ocean Foundation raises funds from individuals, family and corporate foundations, corporations, and government agencies. Donors are both U.S. and internationally based. The organization emphasizes that it raises every dollar it spends, maintaining an efficient cost structure with approximately 89% of each gift going toward direct ocean conservation.
2. Corporate Partnerships: Corporate partnerships take many forms including cash donations, in-kind donations, and cause-related marketing campaigns. The SeaScape Circle comprises corporate leaders who support through multiyear partnerships.
3. Fiscal Sponsorship Services: The organization hosts and sponsors ocean projects and funds, providing administrative infrastructure so project leaders can focus on their mission without nonprofit administration burdens.

Go-to-market motion2 records

Distribution channels3 records

Marketing channels6 records

Core offering

The Ocean Foundation operates as the only community foundation dedicated to the ocean, providing pooled donation facilitation, fiscal sponsorship for ocean conservation projects, grantmaking to vetted marine conservation organizations, and capacity-building support. It raises funds from individuals, family and corporate foundations, corporations, and government agencies, then redistributes them as grants and sponsored project support to conservation organizations across 45 countries and 6 continents. Its portfolio also includes targeted conservation initiatives (Blue Resilience, Ocean Heritage, Ocean Science Equity, Plastics), coastal carbon offset programs, and a free Knowledge Hub.

Product overview

The Ocean Foundation operates as a community foundation for ocean conservation, offering a platform of interconnected services rather than a single software product. The core offerings include Community Foundation Services (fiscal sponsorship, grantmaking, and donation facilitation), Conservation Initiatives (Blue Resilience, Ocean Heritage, Ocean Science Equity, and Plastics), and Capacity Building services. Additional offerings include Carbon Offsets, Knowledge Hub, Research and Development support, and various collaborative networks. The organization functions as a philanthropic intermediary connecting donors with marine conservation projects globally, with an emphasis on fiscal sponsorship and grant distribution infrastructure.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• SeaScape Circle: The Ocean Foundation's corporate leadership partnership program composed of corporate leaders who support the organization's work through multiyear partnerships.
• Blue Resilience Initiative
• Ocean Heritage Initiative
• Ocean Science Equity Initiative
• Plastics Initiative
• Teach For the Ocean

Products and services

• Fiscal Sponsorship Program Program that hosts and sponsors ocean projects and funds, providing nonprofit administration infrastructure (tax-deductible donation receipting, compliance, reporting) so project leaders can focus on their conservation mission rather than nonprofit operations. Available to ocean conservation projects and organizations needing administrative support.
• Grantmaking Grant distribution service connecting donors to vetted marine conservation projects globally, providing tools and training for recipients. Grants are distributed internationally across 45 countries and 6 continents, with over two-thirds supporting causes outside the United States.
• Community Foundation Services Core service offering that facilitates pooled donations, fiscal sponsorship for ocean conservation projects, grantmaking, and connections between donors and marine conservation organizations. Open to individuals, corporations, family and corporate foundations, and government agencies.
• Carbon Offsets Carbon offset program supporting coastal habitats including mangroves and seagrass for climate mitigation. Available to donors and organizations seeking verified coastal blue carbon offsets.
• Capacity Building Technical tools, training, and expert guidance services for ocean conservation organizations to strengthen their operational effectiveness. Delivered to fiscal sponsorship projects, grantees, and partner organizations.
• Blue Resilience Initiative Conservation initiative focused on blue carbon, coastal resilience, and mangrove restoration as nature-based climate solutions. Targets donors, partners, and communities working on coastal habitat protection.
• Ocean Heritage Initiative Initiative focused on preserving maritime heritage and ocean history. Targets partners, researchers, and donors interested in cultural and historical ocean preservation.
• Ocean Science Equity Initiative Initiative focused on promoting equity in ocean science and building capacity in underserved communities, including historically excluded coastal populations.
• Plastics Initiative Initiative focused on addressing plastic pollution, including advocacy for a global plastics treaty and partnerships addressing marine litter. Targets policy makers, donors, and partner organizations.
• SeaScape Circle Corporate Partnership Program Corporate partnership program comprising corporate leaders who support The Ocean Foundation through multiyear partnerships. Includes cash donations, in-kind contributions, and cause-related marketing campaigns tailored to each corporate partner's goals.
• Knowledge Hub Free online resource providing up-to-date, objective knowledge and information on emerging ocean topics, including research and publications for the conservation community.

Quantifiable outcome

• 89% of each gift goes toward direct ocean conservation
• +3 more outcomes

Segments4 records

Ideal customer profiles4 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Partnerships

52 partnerships are on record, tiered core, major and minor.

• REVERBcoreGTM or Marketing PartnerThe Ocean Foundation partners with REVERB through their Music Climate Revolution initiative, combining music and climate action to engage audiences in ocean conservation.
• Philadelphia EaglescoreGTM or Marketing PartnerThe Philadelphia Eagles became the first U.S. professional sports team to partner with The Ocean Foundation for ocean conservation initiatives.
• jetBlue AirwaysmajorGTM or Marketing PartnerThe Ocean Foundation partnered with jetBlue Airways in 2013 to focus on ocean conservation efforts, leveraging airline's reach and customer base.
• SKYY VodkamajorGTM or Marketing PartnerSKYY Vodka launched a partnership with The Ocean Foundation in 2021 to support ocean conservation through cause-related marketing.
• 11th Hour RacingcoreStrategic or Co-development Partner11th Hour Racing works with the sailing community and maritime industries to promote sustainable practices and ocean conservation.
• Marriott InternationalmajorGTM or Marketing PartnerGlobal hospitality company partnering with The Ocean Foundation on ocean conservation initiatives across Marriott properties.
• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerThe Ocean Foundation works with NOAA to advance ocean conservation science and policy initiatives.
• Ocean-Climate AlliancecoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerThe Ocean Foundation is an active member of the Ocean-Climate Alliance which brings leading organizations together for ocean-climate advocacy.
• Global Partnership on Marine Litter (GPML)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerActive member of GPML working to address marine litter and plastic pollution globally through collaboration and knowledge sharing.
• Global Island Partnership (GLISPA)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerThe Ocean Foundation is a proud member of GLISPA, promoting action on island sustainability and ocean conservation.
• International Alliance to Combat Ocean AcidificationcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerAs an Affiliate Member, The Ocean Foundation commits to elevating ocean acidification issues and supporting related conservation efforts.
• The Smithsonian InstitutionmajorStrategic or Co-development PartnerCollaboration with the Smithsonian to promote recognition and preservation of ocean heritage and marine science.
• REV OceanmajorStrategic or Co-development PartnerCooperation on vessel cruises that examine ocean conditions and support ocean research initiatives.
• EarthX2026minorGTM or Marketing PartnerThe Ocean Foundation is an event partner for the EarthX2026 Congress of Conferences focused on environmental issues.
• Columbia SportswearminorGTM or Marketing PartnerColumbia's focus on outdoor conservation and education aligns with ocean protection initiatives.
• Alaskan Brewing CompanyminorGTM or Marketing PartnerCraft brewery dedicated to sustainability and environmental responsibility, partnering on ocean conservation.
• Absolut VodkamajorGTM or Marketing PartnerCorporate partnership with Absolut Vodka supporting ocean conservation initiatives through brand activation.
• BOTTLE ConsortiumcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerPartnership with the BOTTLE Consortium (Bio-Optimized Technologies) to address plastic pollution through innovative solutions.
• ClientEarthminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerWorking with ClientEarth to explore relationships between ocean health and environmental law.
• FullCycleminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerPartnership to keep plastics out of the ocean through innovative waste management solutions.
• Conservation X LabsminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerJoining forces to revolutionize conservation through technology and innovation.
• Restore America's EstuariesminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerAffiliate Member working to elevate restoration and conservation of coastal ecosystems.
• National Maritime FoundationminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerWorking to facilitate maritime policy and research initiatives.
• PADIminorGTM or Marketing PartnerPADI is creating a billion torchbearers to explore and protect the ocean, aligning with conservation goals.
• Mijenta TequilaminorGTM or Marketing PartnerCertified B Corp partnered with The Ocean Foundation for ocean conservation support.
• Ocean and Climate PlatformcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerProud partner working on ocean and climate policy advocacy.
• International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW)minorStrategic or Co-development PartnerCollaboration on areas of mutual interest related to marine wildlife protection.
• Perkins CoieminorOthersPro bono legal support for the organization.
• Sheppard Mullin Richter & HamptonminorOthersPro bono legal support for the organization.
• Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLPminorOthersPro bono legal support for the organization.
• Debevoise & Plimpton LLPminorOthersPro bono legal support for the organization.
• Arnold & PorterminorOthersPro bono legal support for the organization.
• SeaWeb International Sustainable Seafood SummitminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerPartnership on sustainable seafood initiatives dating back to 2015.
• Palau International Coral Reef CenterminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerProviding affordable equipment and support for coral reef research.
• Centre for Marine Sciences, University of the West IndiesminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerResearch collaboration on Caribbean marine ecosystems.
• Universidad Nacional de ColombiaminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerCollaboration to restore seagrass beds in San Andres and study marine habitats.
• The National University of SamoaminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerProviding affordable equipment to support marine science research.
• Eduardo Mondlane UniversityminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerSupporting marine sciences research and education.
• Universidad del Mar, MexicominorStrategic or Co-development PartnerProviding affordable equipment for marine research in Mexico.
• ESPOL, EcuadorminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerSupporting marine research through equipment provision.
• Pontifica Universidad Javeriana, ColombiaminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerResearch collaboration with Colombian university.
• SPREPcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerExchange of information on developments and current issues in Pacific island marine conservation.
• UNEP's Cartagena Convention SecretariatcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerIdentifying potential activities under the Cartagena Convention for marine environmental protection.
• The University of MauritiusminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerSupporting marine research in the Indian Ocean region.
• The World Resources Institute (WRI) MéxicominorStrategic or Co-development PartnerJoint efforts to reverse destruction of marine and coastal ecosystems.
• NCELminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerProviding ocean expertise and learning opportunities through National Environmental Coalition.
• Confluence PhilanthropyminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerAdvancing mission investing by supporting and connecting impact investors.
• Yachting Pages Media GroupminorGTM or Marketing PartnerMedia partnership to advance ocean conservation messaging to maritime audience.
• North Coast Brewing Co.minorGTM or Marketing PartnerPartnership to establish ocean conservation fund through craft beer sales.
• Luke's LobsterminorGTM or Marketing PartnerPartnership to establish The Keeper Fund supporting sustainable lobster fisheries.
• Kerzner InternationalminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerDesign and creation of sustainable resort partnerships supporting ocean conservation.
• Jackson Hole WILDminorGTM or Marketing PartnerAnnual industry summit for media professionals to advance conservation storytelling.

Scale indicators5 records

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Direct peers

• Oceana: Largest international advocacy organization focused exclusively on ocean conservation. Directly comparable as a marine-focused nonprofit combining advocacy, science-driven campaigns, and global coalition-building across similar donor and partner ecosystems.
• Ocean Conservancy: Major U.S.-based ocean conservation nonprofit running large-scale campaigns (e.g., International Coastal Cleanup) and policy advocacy. Comparable in mission focus, donor base, and engagement with corporate partners around marine stewardship.
• Waitt Institute: Philanthropic foundation exclusively dedicated to ocean sustainability, partnering with governments and communities on marine protection. Closely comparable to TOF as an ocean-exclusive funder focused on capacity building and marine spatial planning.
• SeaLegacy: Ocean conservation nonprofit using storytelling, expeditions, and campaigns to drive marine protection. Comparable in mission and engagement with high-profile corporate partners and brand-driven fundraising around ocean causes.
• Marine Conservation Institute: Science-driven nonprofit focused on establishing marine protected areas globally. Comparable in its science-based advocacy, partnership with research institutions, and grantmaking to advance marine conservation outcomes.
• 5 Gyres: Nonprofit focused on reducing plastic pollution through science, education, and advocacy. Directly comparable in the plastics and marine pollution niche, with similar donor bases and corporate partnership models.

Broad incumbents

• Tides Foundation: Large environmental and social justice foundation offering fiscal sponsorship and grantmaking services. Comparable as a fiscal sponsorship intermediary serving multiple environmental causes, though broader than TOF's ocean-only focus.
• Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors: Major philanthropy advisory and grantmaking organization managing climate-related giving. Comparable given its partnership with TOF on the Rockefeller Climate Smart Property Initiative and shared role in deploying donor capital for environmental causes.
• REV Ocean: Norwegian-founded ocean impact organization combining research vessel, technology, and convening. Comparable as a high-profile ocean-focused philanthropic venture partnered with TOF on research cruises, though much larger in capital base.

Emerging players

• Sustainable Ocean Alliance: Younger ocean-focused nonprofit building a global network of ocean entrepreneurs and advocates. Comparable in mission and partnership-driven model, though more focused on youth and startup ecosystems than traditional grantmaking.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat5 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• Xx.com/oceanfdn
• YouTubeyoutube.com/user/oceanfoundation
• Facebookfacebook.com/OceanFdn
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/the-ocean-foundation
• Instagraminstagram.com/theoceanfoundation

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles20 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds1 record

Investors1 record

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about The Ocean Foundation