Ocean Business Accelerator Launches

Earlier this summer, we announced the launch of our new Ocean Business Accelerator — a portfolio of mission-based for-profit ventures.

The Ocean Business Accelerator will complement our existing nonprofit programming, which remains independent, objective, and non-partisan. Each mission-driven venture will support the long-term ecologic and economic health of the Gulf of Maine bioregion.

“This is another way for us to support the Gulf of Maine ecosystem and the communities that depend on it to earn a living,” said CEO/President Don Perkins. “We understand the social, cultural, and financial importance of a strong marine economy — and this Ocean Business Accelerator is another tool for us to offer support.”

Longtime Chief Development Officer Blaine Grimes will lead the initiative in the new role of Business Development Officer. Grimes, who has substantial private sector experience prior to joining GMRI, will focus on mission-driven investment and business development in the Gulf of Maine bioregion.

“After 14 years of supporting our nonprofit mission by building philanthropic support, I’m excited to explore new ways to further our mission,” said Grimes. “We’re focused on identifying and advancing market-based solutions to the challenges we’ve identified through years of research and work with community and industry partners.”