BOSTON — The Baker-Polito Administration today announced $116,034 in grants for research projects that will support efforts to increase awareness and demand for Massachusetts seafood products. Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Matthew Beaton announced the grants at the Seafood Export North America Trade Show while cutting a ceremonial ribbon to celebrate the first “Massachusetts Avenue,” a collection of several of the state’s seafood companies presenting together at the show, organized by two EEA agencies to highlight the sustainability, diversity, and economic impact of the Commonwealth’s fisheries.
“The Commonwealth’s commercial fishing industry and fishing ports contribute greatly to the Massachusetts economy,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “By supporting these research projects, our Administration is proud to provide the fishing industry the most thorough and up-to-date information possible to better promote sustainably-harvested local seafood.”
“Through programs like the Seafood Marketing Grant Program, our Administration is working to ensure the continued vibrancy of our coastal communities and food economy,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito. “The seafood marketing grants announced today will support the research and advocacy needed to increase awareness and demand for Massachusetts seafood products.”
The grants were awarded through the Division of Marine Fisheries’ (DMF) Seafood Marketing Grant Program, created three years ago to enhance the viability and stabilize the economic environment for local commercial fishing and seafood industries and communities.
“The Baker-Polito Administration is committed to supporting the continued viability of the Commonwealth’s seafood industry, which employs about 100,000 people and has an economic impact of $2 billion,” said EEA Secretary Matthew Beaton. “This year, our Seafood Marketing Grant Program is focused on funding research to ensure new information will be available to those working in our commercial fishing and seafood industries.”
The following projects received grants:
$25,000 – Fishing Partnership Support
