This EDA investment supports the alaska mariculture cluster, led by the southeast conference, with boosting the mariculture industry in alaska by catalyzing a sustainable mariculture industry,…

This EDA investment supports the alaska mariculture cluster, led by the southeast conference, with boosting the mariculture industry in alaska by catalyzing a sustainable mariculture industry, producing shellfish and seaweed for the long-term benefit of alaska's economy, environment, and communities. The projects funded as part of this award include the capitalization of a revolving loan fund to facilitate business expansion, the development of mariculture-focused workforce training programs, and the provision of research funding to grow innovative seaweed and shellfish products. The coalition will operate in partnership with sealaska, an alaska native corporation owned by more than 23,000 tlingit, haida, and tsimshian shareholders, ensuring the cluster's approach centers the priorities of tribal, rural, and underserved communities. Once implemented, the investment will help develop and strengthen regional industry clusters - all while embracing economic equity, creating good-paying jobs, and enhancing U.S. Competitiveness globally.