Unlocking Investment in U.S. Aquaculture: Barriers, Opportunities and Pathways Forward

The United States has many of the ingredients for a strong aquaculture sector, but the industry remains relatively small and attracts limited investment. Unlocking Investment in U.S. Aquaculture examines what is holding investment back, where opportunities are developing, and how these conditions differ across the country. Drawing on interviews with investors, founders and other industry stakeholders, the report combines sector-wide insights with a closer look at five regional aquaculture ecosystems: Hawaiʻi, Alaska, California, Maine, and Washington.

A central finding is that the main constraint is not simply capital availability, but also the conditions businesses need to attract and absorb investment. This includes demonstrating credible demand, workable economics, and a realistic path to scale, all shaped by the broader environment in which businesses operate. More predictable regulation, stronger market access, better infrastructure, and appropriate financing tools can help create these conditions and support further investment and growth.

The report was produced by Hatch Blue with funding received under the U.S. Small Business Administration's (SBA) Growth Accelerator Fund Competition.