Starting an environmental nonprofit often begins with a vision and the determination to make a difference, but it also comes with challenges in funding, community support, and long-term sustainability. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Bart Oor and Sander Brienen share the story of how they created Balean, a platform designed to help independent projects and nonprofits access the support they need to thrive.

Independent changemakers are reshaping how conservation work is done. Bart and Sander explain the obstacles they faced, how collaboration shaped their journey, and why Balean is launching in October as a dedicated space to fund and grow independent ocean initiatives. If you’re passionate about starting your own project or nonprofit, this conversation provides both inspiration and practical advice.

Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to Balean founders' story
03:10 – Meet Bart Orr and Sonder Brennan
08:05 – Why independent nonprofits need support
12:40 – The early spark that led to Balean
18:25 – Turning challenges into opportunities
24:15 – Collaboration and early adopters
30:40 – Building a platform for changemakers
37:20 – Closing the funding gap for nonprofits
44:05 – Preparing for the October launch
50:15 – Advice for starting an environmental nonprofit
54:10 – Final thoughts from Bart and Sonder

#oceanconservation #MarineBiology #SaveOurOceans #ProtectTheOcean #OceanAwareness #BluePlanet #ConservationMatters #ScienceForChange #SustainableOceans
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program.

Do you want to join my Ocean Community?
Sign Up for Updates on the process: www.speakupforblue.com/oceanapp

Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter

Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI
Connect with Speak Up For Blue:
Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf
Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue
Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc
YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube