2026 Goals
We envision a future in which the ecosystem, economy, and communities of the Gulf of Maine region thrive amid rapid change. To achieve this, our five-year goals are structured around four strategic initiatives:
• Adapting Fisheries & Seafood: Our goals include better forecasts for state and federal fisheries, increased market share for Gulf of Maine seafood, and sharing seafood and fisheries knowledge with coastal communities.
• Building Climate-Ready Communities: We aim to provide localized climate data for Maine’s tidally-influenced communities, mobilizing financing for municipal climate actions, and expanding access to knowledge for students, educators, businesses, and community leaders.
• Developing the Blue Economy & Supporting Working Waterfronts: Our approach centers on delivering in-depth workforce development, providing advisory services to entrepreneurs and small businesses, and protecting working waterfronts with dedicated access.
• Supporting Energy Solutions: Our focus is on facilitating community input on marine renewables, increasing electrical grid resilience for communities, and providing resources for engaging in climate-related project financing.
Fundraising Events/Opportunities
Sea State Series – Starting in 2006, we began inviting scientists, seafood experts, fishermen, and other community members and partners into our building every year to lead timely and important conversations centered on the Gulf of Maine and the communities that rely on it. This year’s series centers on the transformative efforts we are taking with our partners in our five-year strategic plan to secure a sustainable, resilient future for this region and beyond. Learn more at gmri.org/seastate.
Giving Opportunities
We thrive on the support of our individual, foundation, and corporate donors. Now more than ever, your support puts our science and education to work on behalf of our Gulf of Maine communities and beyond.
Individuals
By making an annual gift, you provide steady revenue for our work. Consider joining our Wind Rose Society, consisting of donors who are GMRI community leaders. By making a Wind Rose Society-qualified gift, members receive access to organizational leadership, unique events, and insider information and expertise. Learn more about how to become a Wind Rose Society member at gmri.org/donate/wind-rose-society.
Corporations & Foundations
Support LabVenture – Since 2005, 170,000+ Maine middle school students have participated in our LabVenture program, where they use the scientific process to investigate ecosystem change in the Gulf of Maine. Your support of LabVenture inspires the next generation of climate leaders. Reach out to mmcnell@gmri.org to explore this opportunity.
Volunteer Opportunities
Contribute Data to our Community Science Projects
We need your help collecting local data that will inform future decisions that prioritize community resilience.
• Coastal Flooding – Help pinpoint high-risk flooding areas in your community. Community members can identify the weather and water level conditions during flooding events, and describe how the flood impacts their community. Learn more at gmri.org/coastalflooding.
• Mussel Bed Mapping – Help us track mussel beds as they retreat further into the ocean. Send us your photos of mussel beds during low tides, and we will develop an acoustic mapping plan. Learn more at gmri.org/musselbeds.
If you’re interested in corporate volunteer opportunities, contact mmcnell@gmri.org to learn more.