Large development intervention programmes termed ‘marine economy’ or ‘blue economy’ are in their early stages and do not yet have results on effectiveness. Reports on the effectiveness of activities which could be considered under the blue economy umbrella were identified although more general reports of success than specific evidence. The World Bank programme, Problue, is a multi-donor trust fund aiming to achieve sustainable economic development in healthy oceans. The latest annual review of the programme lists achievements in terms of number of activities, proposals accepted, and beneficiaries. Effectiveness outcomes were not yet available. Progress has been made in developing frameworks and tools to assist governments to develop roadmaps. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) is undertaking a large number of activities in support of sustainable ocean economies which are also in early stages.