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
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
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 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
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Starting a Climate Committee: A Personal Guide
In 2024, while living in Woolwich, Dave Berndtson launched the town’s first climate resilience committee. He’s now a resident of Arrowsic (and a member of …
Perspectives
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What does climate readiness look like for Maine’s towns?
Climate readiness looks different in every community, with each facing its own unique risks, priorities, and visions for the future. Through sustained relationships, place-based data, …
Perspectives
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2025 Gulf of Maine Temperature Report
Over the past decade, our scientists have led a body of research that highlights temperatures in the Gulf of Maine. To keep you informed, we …
Reports
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Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) 101
This 101 explainer breaks down what the AMOC is, how it influences climate, what scientists are observing now, and what a changing AMOC could mean …
Explainers