Introduction

Alaska has many strengths that make it an ideal environment for mariculture: clean and abundant waters, skills and abilities of coastal Alaskans maritime experience, culture knowledge of indigenous Alaskans, and existing seafood industry and infrastructure. The state has research and development capacity at the University and industry levels, as well as a sophisticated seafood marketing organization that effectively reaches consumers all over the nation and the world. The regulatory process and agencies are accessible, and the Legislature has been supportive, including funding $5 million for a new mariculture matching grant program.

Along with these strengths come challenges.

The eight (8) grant components of the Alaska Mariculture Cluster are designed to address barriers to developing a mariculture industry with a heartbeat of equity and sustainability.

U.S. EDA BBBRC Funding & Grant Component Breakdown

*Plus $1,000,000 Non-Federal Matching Share

Provide accessible capital to expedite private investment in mariculture by reducing barriers for new businesses in the mariculture sector.

*Plus $1,500,000 Non-Federal Matching Share

Provide governance and project management; build existing efforts to coordinate priorities and activities across stakeholders; continue to improve public understanding and acceptance for mariculture development.

*Plus $1,183,253 Non-Federal Matching Share

Support industry growth – expand existing programs and create new programs within the University and Alaska Sea Grant network, including cooperative programs with tribes, vocational education and high schools.

*Plus $1,503,713 Non-Federal Matching Share

Create technology innovation competition for specific challenges to mariculture development.

Build capacity to develop innovative new products from mariculture; grow market demand for new mariculture products including carbon removal products.

Provide planning and technical support for short and long-term adoption of green energy improvements (efficiency, renewables, infrastructure).

*Plus $10,394,860 Non-Federal Matching Share

Solve the chicken-or-egg problem of supply and demand of shellfish and seaweed seed, by integrating and maximizing existing capacity, as well as building additional hatchery and nursery facilities.

Southeast Conference is responsible for grant administration, accounting, compliance, financial reporting, tracking progress on projects, and outcomes.