The Alaska Mariculture Cluster (AMC) is proud to announce funding for three groundbreaking projects that will help propel Alaska’s mariculture industry by researching kelp-based biostimulants for agricultural markets. These projects, led by Pacific Kelp Company (PKC), GreenWave, and the Chugach Regional Resources Commission (CRRC), will explore new ways to utilize Alaskan kelp to enhance soil health, increase crop resilience, and unlock sustainable commercial opportunities for seaweed farming in Alaska.
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Each of these projects is playing a crucial role in advancing the AMC’s vision of creating a $100 million mariculture industry within the next decade. By investing in research, commercialization, and supply chain development, the AMC is reducing risks associated with seaweed farming and fostering private investment in the sector.
These projects, funded through the Kelp Agricultural Product Development & Testing RFP, will not only strengthen Alaska’s mariculture industry but also contribute to broader agricultural sustainability efforts by providing natural, nutrient-rich alternatives to synthetic fertilizers. As the demand for eco-friendly agricultural inputs grows, Alaska’s kelp farmers and innovators are well-positioned to supply a thriving market while supporting resilient coastal economies.
Pacific Kelp Company
Transforming Alaskan Kelp into High-Value Agricultural Inputs
Funding: $487,616
Region: Southeast, Southwest (Kodiak & Aleutians)
Project Start: March 2025
PKC will test the efficacy of its nutrient-dense liquid kelp extract product for turfgrass and vineyard markets specifically, as these two crop systems have great potential to benefit from a liquid kelp extract and high potential for commercialization as high value specialty crops. Collaborating with Cornell University and Washington State University, PKC will analyze the impact of these extracts on soil health, crop resilience, and yield enhancement. By proving the efficacy of kelp-based biofertilizers and biostimulants, this project will open new commercial pathways for Alaska’s mariculture industry, offering farmers an environmentally sustainable alternative to traditional fertilizers.
KRBD News Story
Interim Update (Pending)
Final Report (Pending)
Presentation Videos
GreenWave
Scaling Bull Kelp Production, Harvest, & Stabilization for Biostimulants
Funding: $256,121
Region: Southwest (Kodiak & Aleutians)
Project Start: March 2025
GreenWave will develop the scalable infrastructure required for the farming, harvesting, stabilization, and testing of a bull kelp-based biostimulant to meet the needs of agricultural markets. With strong partnerships, including Pacific Northwest Organics, GreenWave aims to establish a reliable supply chain that ensures Alaskan kelp is a competitive alternative to imported seaweed-derived agricultural products. This work will also support the expansion of Alaskan seaweed farms, creating new economic opportunities for coastal communities.
Root Study Results
Final Report (Pending)
Presentation Videos
Chugach Regional Resources Commission
Liquid Kelp Biostimulant Product Refinement and Field & Market Testing
Funding: $499,073
Region: Kenai Peninsula
Project Start: March 2025
CRRC will conduct research and field testing on a liquid kelp biostimulant product to refine its formulation and validate its agricultural benefits. This project seeks to improve product consistency, develop a business plan, and explore market opportunities as a way of ensuring that Alaska’s kelp products can effectively compete in the growing biostimulant market. This project builds on AMC-funded biostimulant R&D projects initiated by Regeneration North, Kachemak Kelp Hub, and CRRC through the Joint Innovations Projects program and Feasibility Studies program
Interim Update
Final Report (Pending)
Presentation Videos
