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.

Background

Southeast Conference (SEC) is the federally designated Economic Development District (EDD) for Southeast Alaska, as well as the state designated Alaska Regional Development Organization. SEC’s mission is to undertake and support activities that promote strong economies, sustainable communities, and a healthy environment in Southeast Alaska.

In September 2022, Southeast Conference was awarded a $49 million U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) Build Back Better Regional Challenge (BBBRC) grant to catalyze a viable and sustainable mariculture industry in Alaska, supporting the production of shellfish and seaweed, for the long-term benefit of the state’s economy, environment, and communities.

SEC leads the Alaska Mariculture Cluster (AMC) grant coalition, which includes members of Alaska’s mariculture industry, tribal organizations, regulatory agencies, university system, regional EDDs, trade organizations, and others. A Governance Body, composed of AMC coalition leaders and Tribal executives from each of the project regions, guides the grant’s work and equity metrics.

The AMC has complementary grant components designed to break down barriers and develop Alaska’s mariculture industry. The Overarching Narrative explains how the grant components work together to grow the industry in an equitable and responsible manner. The full project period for the Alaska Mariculture Cluster is October 1, 2022 to September 38, 2026, though some projects may be extended up until May 28, 2027.