Marine Economy Growth

Fisherman on a working vessel handling ropes at a dock, representing the coastal economy and working waterfronts dependent on ocean industries.

Coastal communities have made their living on the ocean for centuries, and today’s marine economy is powered by a mix of traditional industries and emerging “blue” technologies. But climate change, competing development uses, access challenges and a host of other issues threaten this critical piece of our economic and cultural heritage.

To solve the many challenges facing the

How do we protect access to the working waterfront amid the threat of development from other industries?
How can we help entrepreneurs and startups attract investment from around the world?
What are the best ways to optimize a public resource shared across different users and geographies?
Who gets to work on the water and how do we expand those opportunities to new communities?

Marine Economy Science & Impact

The decline of traditional fisheries, the impacts of climate change, and increasingly restricted access to working waterfronts have constrained economic growth and the ability of local businesses and communities to adapt. At the same time, emerging sectors such as aquaculture, tourism, renewable ocean energy, and marine technology hold significant potential to revitalize coastal economies, but require inclusive decision-making processes, strategic investment, workforce development, and supportive infrastructure to reach their full potential.

Our team of economists, supply-chain experts, educators lead research and deliver services that sustain the growth of emerging industries and safeguard critical working waterfronts. Our researchers analyze market opportunities, fisheries management tactics, climate impacts and other economic forces. We also deliver trainings, provide resources, and make connections to help the workers, entrepreneurs, and business leaders make decisions. In doing so, we aim to protect the region's economic and cultural connection to the ocean — and along with it, the enormous opportunity the sector represents for the region.

Dive Deeper

Our staff are the first point of contact for many early-stage entrepreneurs seeking business-building support, access to waterfront testing sites, and connections to regional facilities and expertise. We focus on supporting innovative founders creating solutions that enhance sustainability and efficiency across blue economy sectors relevant to the Gulf of Maine region. Learn more by exploring our 2024 Ventures Impact Report.

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