A’Pelago strengthens its expert network with four new advisors

A'Pelago is pleased to introduce four new advisors who, with their expertise and experience, will support especially the development of the A'Pelago Accelerator and the startups operating in the field of transformative blue economy. The contribution of these advisors will stregthen the implementation of A'Pelago Accelerator programs as well as the commercialization and growth of the participating startups.

Founded in 2022, A'Pelago aims to help create profitable businesses that improve the condition of marine areas in the blue economy sector. Now, A'Pelago is joined by four distinguished advisors to further strengthen its expert team.

Kirsi Swanljung-von Wehrt is a business law expert and owner of Airiston Lumous, located in the Åland Archipelago. Swanljung-von Wehrt has over 30 years of experience in business law and corporate development. Her expertise includes mergers and acquisitions, contract matters, and international arbitration.

"It is wonderful to have the opportunity to support businesses in the blue economy and to develop opportunities and innovations related to the sea at A'Pelago. The archipelago, as well as solutions that improve the future of humanity and nature, has always been close to my heart," says Swanljung-von Wehrt.

Piia Maaranen is an experienced international venture capitalist and former technology executive. Maaranen supports sustainable startup companies with her investments.

"Sustainable and growing businesses as well as ocean well-being are not separate themes. Innovations in the blue economy develop climate-friendly solutions for many important industries, which, of course, interests responsible investors. I bring commercial insight and international networks to A'Pelago that can strengthen product development, branding, and sales, in addition to our strong knowledge and research capital. A good solution will not automatically be sought after; we need to be able to tell the story and sell its value," emphasizes Maaranen.

Maaranen has been supporting A'Pelago unofficially from day 1. She previously participated in A'Pelago's first event, the A'Pelago Initiative in 2023.

Pär Mickos brings decades of experience in industry and technology. His strengths include international business relationships and the development of B2B sales and business processes.

"Finally, I found an organization that doesn't make speeches or organize stunts, but very concreately supports sea region positive business initiatives to grow. A'Pelago's mission struck a chord with me, and I became hooked. It led to an inspiring and revolutionary career change," says Mickos.

Pär Mickos participated in discussions at A'Pelago's Winter Camp event in January 2024.

John Kronberg is an AI engineer and brings expertise in AI-based innovations and scaling them to international markets.

"Sea regions health is personally important to me. The well-being of our oceans has long-lasting consequences for all our lives. It is great that A'Pelago also brings together technology experts and startups for a good cause, to find shared solutions," says Kronberg.

The new advisors will play a central role in the implementation of blue economy Accelerator programs, which will next kickstart in the spring of 2025. They will participate in business coaching and lead workshops, offering valuable insights to participants on financing, market access, and business model development.

The success of the first Accelerator program held in the spring of 2024 laid the foundation for the new program period, with the application process ongoing until December 31, 2024. The accelerator is now expanding further as the expert network and partners grow. Learn more and apply for the programs through the Accelerator pages.