SUBMITTED PROJECTS
A total of 48 projects from 9 leading marine research centers affiliated with top Portuguese universities have been submitted for evaluation. These proposals span diverse fields, including marine biology, oceanography, conservation, sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, and marine pollution. Collectively, they highlight Portugal’s strong scientific expertise and commitment to advancing marine ecosystem preservation, aligning with the objectives of SDG 14 (Life Below Water).
FAM GRANTS EVALUATORS
Following the Pre-Finalists Pitch Day in October, which brought together top researchers from prestigious universities and marine research centers across Portugal in Lisbon, an evaluation process was conducted to assess the 20 shortlisted projects. This event served as a dynamic platform for project presentations, knowledge exchange, and networking among leading experts in marine science and conservation. After a rigorous assessment, five outstanding projects were selected as winners, recognizing their innovative contributions to advancing ocean sustainability under SDG 14.
Innovation experts and leading experts in marine science, conservation, and sustainable development, oversaw the assessment process, ensuring a rigorous and objective selection of the most impactful projects.
A panel of esteemed evaluators, composed by the FAM Foundation Board:
Ana Menéres Mendonça, FAM Foundation Founder & Board of Directors;
Luís Vasconcelos, FAM Foundation Board of Directors;
Joana Meireles, FAM Foundation Board of Directors;
José Archer, FAM Foundation Board of Trustees;
Ricardo Arcos, FAM Foundation Board of Trustees.
and, the expert evaluators composed by, the impact investment and sustainable development operational expert's from FAM Foundation complemented by Marine Science and Conservation experts:
Nuno Frazão, FAM Foundation Operational Manager & Positive Benefits Founder;
Mafalda Sarmento, FAM Foundation Operational Manager, Católica Lisbon & NOVA-SBE;
Catarina Grilo, ANP/WWF Director of Conservation and Policy;
Raquel Gaião Silva, Faber Ocean /Climate Tech Associate, BlueBio Alliance Executive Board Member.
WINNING PROJECTS OF THE FAM GRANTS 24_25
The five selected projects exemplify groundbreaking research in marine science and sustainability, addressing key challenges aligned with SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and other global goals. From tracking marine megafauna with cutting-edge biotelemetry to exploring the biotechnological potential of invasive seaweed, these initiatives contribute to ocean conservation, sustainable fisheries, and innovative biomedical applications. By mapping critical shark habitats, developing eco-friendly bioadhesives, and advancing the genomic understanding of deep-sea corals in the Azores, these projects highlight Portugal’s scientific leadership in marine research and its commitment to protecting marine ecosystems for future generations.
BLUE – Biotelemetry for Life Underwater and Education
Led by Filipe Alves and hosted by MARE and ARDITI, this project leverages biotelemetry to study marine megafauna habitat use in the Macaronesia region. By deploying satellite loggers on large delphinids in Madeira, it aims to expand research on ocean biodiversity and human impact zones. Additionally, the project integrates marine conservation education, engaging local communities in ocean literacy and SDG 14 efforts.
FIRESEA – Harnessing Invasive Seaweed to Combat Fire Blight
Led by Carina Costa Felix and hosted by MARE and Politécnico de Leiria, this project explores the bioactive potential of the invasive seaweed Asparagopsis armata to combat Erwinia amylovora, a bacterium threatening Rocha pear orchards in Portugal. By developing a sustainable alternative to traditional pesticides, FIRESEA seeks to mitigate both agricultural and ecological challenges, aligning with SDGs 2, 6, 14, and 15.
Mapping Critical Habitats of Threatened Shark Species in the Algarve Coast
Led by David Abecasis and hosted by CCMAR, this project focuses on the spatial ecology of smooth hammerheads and blue sharks along the Algarve coast. Using telemetry techniques, it seeks to identify and protect essential fish habitats under pressure from fishing and coastal development. The project supports SDG 14 by promoting science-based conservation strategies and public awareness initiatives.
MIMESIS – Nature-Inspired Bioadhesive for Biomedical and Biotechnological Applications
Coordinated by Romana Santos at MARE, aims to develop bioadhesives inspired by sea urchins for medical and biotech applications, such as tissue engineering and 3D organ printing. By using recombinant protein technology, MIMESIS seeks to create eco-friendly, high-performance adhesives with broad applications, contributing to SDGs 3, 4, and 14.
The Azores: A Coral Biodiversity Hotspot and a Coldspot of Genomic Information
Led by Teresa Cerqueira, hosted by MARE, OKEANOS and Gaspar Frutuoso Foundation, this project investigates cold-water coral biodiversity in the Azores, a key yet understudied deep-sea ecosystem. By employing genomic and morphological analyses, it aims to enhance coral species identification and inform conservation policies. The findings will support marine protected areas and SDG 14, addressing the impacts of ocean acidification and deep-sea mining.
FAM Foundation is committed with the sustainable development goals.
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), also known as the Global Goals, were adopted by the United Nations in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity.