From Leader to Innovator: Advancing Virginia Shellfish Aquaculture

This planning initiative will build the foundation for Region 6 to become a national hub for aquaculture innovation by: Assessing industry needs and opportunities through structured engagement with growers, gear manufacturers, researchers, local government officials and policymakers through workshops and one-on-one meetings; Identifying high-impact innovation opportunities in gear design, aquaculture technology, and business models, with a fact-finding trip to Maine; Developing a roadmap for establishing a regional aquaculture innovation ecosystem, including prototyping facilities, collaborative R&D programs; and entrepreneurial support through a consensus-building approach in workshop.

The project will be led by the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) in partnership with Old Dominion University (ODU), Virginia Tech (VT), Virginia Sea Grant, regional economic development organizations, and industry representatives.

• Statewide Project Theme: Entrepreneurial Activities
• Region 6 Priority Industry Cluster: Aquaculture/Seafood/Commercial Fishing/Marine Industries
• GO Virginia Request: $81,002.00
• Match: $40,549.00
• Source of Match: Gloucester County; Lancaster County; Northern Neck Planning District Commission; Cappahosic Oyster Co.; Matheson Oyster Co.; Rogue Oyster Co.; Steamboat Wharf Oyster Co.; Lambert Shellfish; Ruby Salts Oyster Co.; Virginia Institute of Marine Science; Virginia Sea Grant and Oyster Seed Holdings
• Project Type: Planning
• Localities: Gloucester County; Lancaster County; Mathews County; Middlesex County; Northumberland County; Richmond County