IOI has established 19 Focal Points particularly in countries where IOI Centres do not exist. The Focal Points have proven association with IOI, held appropriate qualification and experience and are engaged in activities relevant to the mission of IOI. They are of good standing, associated with a reputed educational, scientific or other ocean-related activity.

Focal points (IOI Network Nodes) provide intellectual contributions to IOI on a voluntary basis and are not expected to receive any financial support from IOI as to their nomination or work as focal points. They receive when appropriate, intellectual and moral support from IOI in promoting their own objectives, project and career prospects.

Their function/roles are to:

• Promote IOI and identify opportunities for activities related to the IOI core activities and mission;
• Propose applicants for IOI training courses;
• Disseminate IOI Publications and IOI Newsletter;
• Identify sources for funding in the respective region;
• They are the IOI contact point in the respective country;
• Activities of IOI Focal Points/Network Nodes will be bonded together by the IOI Centres;
• Activities of IOI Focal Points/Network Nodes will principally not be funded (co-funded by IOI).

The designation of Focal Points are made preferably from the list of IOI Alumni. When deemed desirable to establish a focal point(s) in a country or region where there is an active IOI Centre, the designation of such a focal point(s) will be made in agreement with the Director of such a Centre.