Developing the Blue Economy & Supporting Working Waterfronts
Revitalizing coastal communities by supporting traditional and emerging industries and protecting vital infrastructure.
Coastal economies in the Gulf of Maine are entering a phase of accelerating opportunities while undergoing a multitude of social and environmental changes. We'll strengthen the blue economy and steward working waterfronts by supporting workforce development, investment, and waterfront access.
By 2030, we aim to achieve:
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In-depth workforce development programming delivered to at least 1,000 participants.
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Technical and business advisory services, market insights, and scaling resources delivered to more than 100 entrepreneurs and small businesses.
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10 working waterfronts are permanently protected with covenants, and every Maine harbor offers dedicated waterfront access to farmers and harvesters.
Blue Economy & Working Waterfronts Work
We take a multifaceted approach to strengthening the blue economy and Maine’s working waterfronts by leveraging research, education, business support, and strategic partnerships. Explore our progress so far.
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![Maine Aquaculture Apprenticeship Program]()
Maine Aquaculture Apprenticeship Program
The Registered Aquaculture Apprenticeship Program is a first-of-its-kind workforce development initiative designed to train the next generation of aquaculture professionals in Maine.
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![BlueTech Boost Incubator Program]()
BlueTech Boost Incubator Program
The BlueTech Boost program is a 10-week incubator designed to assist early-stage startup founders in overcoming challenges and achieving milestones.
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![Foundations of Oyster Farming: An Immersive Game]()
Foundations of Oyster Farming: An Immersive Game
Foundations of Oyster Farming immerses students in the world of the Maine Aquaculture industry. Designed for the upper elementary grades and beyond, our free, online …
GMRI met us where we were during our company’s early stages. They not only helped us establish the strategic roadmap for accelerating Seascale’s development but also provided access to experts both within and outside of GMRI to help us get there.
Charlie Walsh Seascale Co-founder and GMRI BlueTech Boost Program Alumnus
Read More
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The Next Wave of Maine’s Blue Economy
Reflections from the 2025 Blue Economy Investment Summit, and the future of Maine's blue economy.
Perspectives
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Demystifying the Blue Economy
The blue economy is a hot topic these days, but the meaning behind the term isn't always clear. In this blog, we break down what …
Perspectives
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Fisheries 101
Fisheries are the backbone of our state's economy and cultural heritage, but these systems are complex, and managing them even more so. Read on for …
Perspectives
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Sea State Recap: Building Climate Ready Communities
In this installment of the Sea State series at the Gulf of Maine Research Institute (GMRI), we hosted a timely conversation around supporting Maine communities …
Perspectives
