KEDC Secures Grants to Boost Kodiak’s Mariculture Future

The Kodiak Economic Development Corporation (KEDC) is proud to announce two significant grants advancing our Blue Economy Initiatives. Funded by the Alaska Mariculture Cluster, our Mariculture Processing Feasibility Study explores a hub to support kelp, oysters, fishermen, and various mariculture farmers, while an USDA Rural Business Development Grant fuels a business plan for kelp, oyster, and other established mariculture ventures. Together, these efforts aim to create 25 jobs over five years and position Kodiak as a mariculture leader.

The feasibility study assesses kelp and other mariculture potential across the Kodiak Archipelago, with a target completion by 2025. Starting February 2025, the UAA Center for Economic Development team, who KEDC has plans to partner with, will deliver market analysis, stakeholder insights, and a comprehensive business plan by September 2025, paving the way for new jobs, as well as ensuring the current work done by farmers is supported and strengthened. “These initiatives will shape Kodiak’s economy by expanding mariculture opportunities,” says Executive Director Melissa Schoenwether.

Stay tuned for updates as this work progresses.