Alaska Sea Grant is now accepting applications for a 3-day, hands-on workshop focused on seaweed processing and value-added product development. This training is designed for individuals interested in commercial, research, and emerging industry applications of Alaska-grown seaweed.

Participants will gain practical experience on how raw seaweed can be transformed into marketable products. Training will include both foundational instruction and hands-on activities.

Topics will include:

• Seafood safety and handling best practices
• Labeling requirements and regulatory considerations
• Business planning for value-added seaweed products
• Development of food products incorporating seaweed
• Development of cosmetic extracts
• Agricultural applications including biostimulants

This workshop emphasizes applied learning and product development, with participants creating and testing seaweed-based products. Selected participant-developed products will be showcased at the Kodiak Kelp Festival the following week.

Space is limited and an application is required. Priority will be given to Alaska residents and individuals actively engaged in mariculture or food product development. Limited travel and lodging support is available and will be awarded through the application process. The workshop fee is $50.

Apply by May 10.

About the AMC Marketing Program

Funded through the AMC’s Market Development grant component, the Alaska Mariculture Alliance (AMA) and Southeast Conference (SEC) have launched a robust marketing program to increase awareness, demand, and long-term market opportunities for Alaska’s growing mariculture industry. The AMC Marketing Program is being advanced by Tastemaker Comms in partnership with Rising Tide Communications – two experienced firms with extensive backgrounds in seafood marketing, brand development, and campaign execution.

About the Alaska Mariculture Cluster

In September 2022, Southeast Conference was awarded a $49 million U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to stimulate private investment and grow Alaska’s mariculture industry to $100 million in sales in 10 years.  The Alaska Mariculture Cluster grant involves a large coalition of state agencies, Tribes, non-profits, and others working together over a five year period ending May 2027.