This project stemmed from a lively discussion at an Ocean Allies Forum in May 2020. We brought together diverse partners and dedicated allies in the ocean sector to get feedback on best approaches to increasing diversity and inclusion (D&I) in the ocean economy, and where gaps could be identified in the current D&I efforts of the community. Diversity and inclusion should not be a “one-off initiative.” It requires principled action and investment in employee training. The Ocean Allies project strives to help the ocean sector to take concrete steps towards a more richly diverse and inclusive ecosystem and realize the long-term benefits for innovation.