As an ocean science leader, Bigelow Laboratory is helping Maine bring to bear its competitive advantages to position the state at the forefront of this emerging industry in New England. Follow along with our work in this transformative area.
Bigelow’s Blue Biotech Bulletin: August 2026
On August 6, blue economy leaders gathered for Maine Algal Innovations: Strategic Global Positioning, a dynamic panel that explored how the state is carving out a leadership role in the rapidly growing global algal industry.
Hosted by the Maine Center for Entrepreneurs in partnership with Bigelow Laboratory and collaborators, the event assembled several experts spanning research, industry, and entrepreneurship. The conversation highlighted how algae and seaweed are driving innovation across sectors, from biotechnology and life sciences to novel compounds and environmental solutions.
Learn more about the event and findings in the Fall 2026 MARIA Updates e-newsletter, which launches September 1. Subscribe today.
Maine is well positioned to be a national leader in blue biotechnology.
Earlier this year, Bigelow Laboratory partnered with Hatch Blue to host the inaugural Maine Blue Biotech Studio. With support from Maine Technology Institute, the program assembled 10 companies working on health and wellness products, agriculture biostimulants and feed additives, novel reagents, and other areas to help them move from early stages to commercial scale.
Check out this article from Hatch Blue to explore the program and what it could mean for the next generation of biotechnology.
Bigelow Laboratory, Gulf of Maine Research Institute, Northeastern University’s Roux Institute, and the University of Maine are collaborating to host Maine Blue Economy Week from September 30 through October 2.
The three-day event will bring more than 250 entrepreneurs, investors, researchers, students, policymakers, and marine-sector leaders to Portland, Maine, to focus on growth opportunities.
Register soon; spots are filling fast!
About the Blue Biotech Bulletin:
Maine researchers and entrepreneurs are unlocking the potential of algae, seaweed, shellfish, and marine microbes to develop novel products and materials. These blue biotechnology innovations not only strengthen the state’s economy but also contribute to global efforts to increase health, sustainability, and resilience.
We regularly share events, reports, convenings, and other leadership opportunities where our researchers and colleagues are advancing this important work in our state. Together, these efforts highlight how blue biotechnology can diversify Maine’s economy, create high-quality jobs, and inspire the next generation of ocean innovators while building off the state’s treasured maritime history.
