Seek Out Training/Mentoring

There are two types of training classes: aquaculture-specific technical training and general business training. Technical aquaculture courses teach entrepreneurs about the ins and outs of starting and operating an aquaculture business with focus on the regulatory and operational aspects. General business training/mentoring resources help aquaculturists understand business fundamentals, which are the foundation of a profitable sea farm. To build a successful business over the long term, you need to understand both the technical skills of aquaculture and foundational business concepts.

Aquaculture takes a lot more than growing marine organisms and navigating regulations. Aquaculture-specific training courses usually don’t go deep into topics like business planning, financing, legal issues, and employee management. You can be a master farmer, but if you don’t understand the fundamentals of running a business, you risk profitability.

No, courses such as Aquaculture in Shared Waters, and Score and SBA business counseling are free. The general business training programs are inexpensive and cost a few hundred dollars to enroll.

SCORE, The Small Business Administration, Coastal Enterprises Incorporated, and Maine Center for Entrepreneurs.

Aquaculture associations lobby on the industry’s behalf at the state and national level and provide one-on-one assistance to members.