Deadline: September 30, 2025
Are you building an early-stage startup or small business centred on sustainable seafood? The Catch + Create Accelerator Program is your opportunity to access funding, mentorship, and national exposure tailored specifically for seafood innovators. Hosted by Positively Groundfish, this equity-free accelerator supports startups using West Coast groundfish to develop innovative consumer products.
The Catch + Create Accelerator Program offers unmatched benefits to help early-stage entrepreneurs take their ideas to market with confidence.
What is the Catch + Create Accelerator Program?
The Catch + Create Accelerator is a 6-month hybrid programme designed for U.S.-based startups or small businesses creating seafood products using at least 50% West Coast groundfish. From canned fish and seafood snacks to pet food or byproduct innovations, eligible businesses will benefit from expert mentorship, funding, and national exposure.
The programme is run by Positively Groundfish, a nonprofit dedicated to sustainable seafood and economic vitality across coastal communities.
Who is Eligible?
This programme is designed for:
- Solo founders or startup teams based in the United States
- Businesses working with West Coast groundfish species (minimum 50% of the product)
- Innovators creating or refining consumer-ready products (e.g., meal kits, snacks, canned products, pet food, upcycled seafood)
Key Features of the Programme
Format and Duration
- 6-month hybrid programme
- Biweekly remote sessions (2 hours each)
- Three in-person gatherings (kick-off, midpoint, and final pitch)
- Final pitch opportunity to buyers, investors, journalists, and industry experts
Funding and In-Kind Support
- Up to $20,000 in development stipends
(Note: Funds cannot be used for salaries. Eligible expenses include recipe testing, packaging, branding, nutrient analysis, and web design.) - Marketing and Launch Package (worth $30,000) including:
- Product photography & video
- Booth space at two national trade shows
- 6 months of PR support
- Social media ad budget
- Two-year membership with Positively Groundfish
Mentorship and Business Support
Participants also receive:
- 1:1 business mentorship (IP lawyers, food scientists, financial advisors)
- Access to market research and consumer trend insights
- Peer support from a community of like-minded seafood entrepreneurs
Why Apply to the Catch + Create Accelerator Program?
This programme offers a rare opportunity to grow a seafood-focused business without giving up equity. It’s uniquely positioned to support entrepreneurs tackling product development, packaging, marketing, and scaling challenges specific to the sustainable seafood sector.
The value extends beyond funding—participants gain access to a full ecosystem of support and credibility in the seafood industry.
Important Dates to Remember
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | 30 September 2025 |
| Programme Start (Phase 1) | November 2025 |
| Programme End (Phase 1) | May 2026 |
| Launch Support Duration | Through 2027 |
Summary at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Host | Positively Groundfish (nonprofit) |
| Target Applicants | Early-stage U.S.-based seafood startups using West Coast groundfish |
| Funding | $20,000 development stipend + $30,000 marketing and launch support |
| Programme Type | 6-month hybrid (remote + in-person) |
| Equity Requirement | 0% equity—founders retain full ownership |
| Application Deadline | 30 September 2025 |
| Launch Support Timeline | Into 2027 |
Apply Now or Learn More
Ready to grow your seafood startup with dedicated support?
👉 Apply for the Catch + Create Accelerator Program
👉 Read more about the programme
Need help with your proposal?
Contact grantsdatabase.org for proposal drafting, refining and review.
