In my second year at the helm of the Gulf of Maine Research Institute, I’ve witnessed both profound challenges and remarkable innovation, collaboration, and resilience in response. In so many ways, the Gulf of Maine remains a bellwether for global challenges — but it’s also as a proving ground for solutions. While the forces shaping our future are global in scale, the real work of adaptation and resilience begins locally — and it’s here, in our own communities, that meaningful progress takes root.
Our role as an independent, non-partisan research institute has never been more vital. In the face of rapid environmental, social, and economic change, we remain steadfast in our commitments. Every day, our team is working at the intersection of cutting-edge science and community impact to ensure that the ecosystems, economies, and communities of this region can thrive amid rapid change.
The numbers in this report tell part of that story — 39 peer-reviewed publications advancing critical scientific understanding, 1000+ stakeholders engaged in climate resilience preparation work, 63 blue economy startups supported through our programming, 3,850 community scientists contributing valuable data, and more than 15,500 students engaged in hands-on STEM learning. But the true impact of this work extends beyond metrics. It is seen in the fishermen testing new gear types and targeting new species, in the restaurants sourcing more and more of their fish locally, in the young minds inspired to pursue careers in marine science and climate innovation, and in the many other communities we serve.
This year also marked an important inflection point for GMRI itself. We finalized a new five-year strategic plan and an updated operating model, providing long-term stability and clarity as we navigate the years ahead. This summer, we’ll share more about our evolving strategy with our entire community. We will also pause at moments this year to reflect, as we celebrate our 20th anniversary on Portland’s waterfront by honoring the many people and events that have shaped our impact to date.
Until then, I invite you to explore the stories in this report, connect with our work, and join us as we step into the next chapter.
— Glenn Prickett, GMRI President/CEO