The Local Catch Network, based in the School of Marine Sciences at the University of Maine, is hosting a webinar this week to help fishermen and seafood businesses better understand federal grant opportunities available through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

The webinar, scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 21, will focus on the USDA’s Value-Added Producer Grant program, which is currently open for fisheries and seafood-related applications. The program accepts applications from Jan.15 through April 15, 2026 and is designed to support product development, equipment purchases, and expanded market access.

“Community-based fisheries are a vital pillar of our domestic food system, yet small-scale producers receive a tiny fraction of the federal resources available to help them kick-start or scale their operations,” said Joshua Stoll, co-founder of the Local Catch Network and a University of Maine associate professor of Marine Sciences.

According to the press release, the webinar is specifically tailored for community-based fishermen, harvesters, and direct-marketers seeking guidance on eligibility requirements and the application process. Representatives from the USDA will provide an overview of the program, discuss seafood-specific value-added products, and answer questions during a live Q&A session.

“This webinar will provide a roadmap for fishing community members across the country to access the capital they may need for product development, equipment, and market access,” said Jessica Gribbon Joyce, Program Manager for the Local Catch Network.

Registration is free but required. Register here.