Seagriculture USA 2024 explores new frontiers

The Seagriculture USA 2024 conference, the premier event for the seaweed industry, was successfully held in Ketchikan, Alaska from 11-12 September 2024.

Under the theme “Exploring New Frontiers,” Seagriculture USA 2024 united nearly 200 stakeholders from 10 countries to share knowledge and ideas, steering the future of the seaweed industry towards sustainable and economically viable paths. Representatives from more than 120 companies and institutions actively engaged in discussions, networking, and knowledge sharing.

Over the two-day event, Seagriculture USA 2024 featured a dynamic and comprehensive program that included six plenary sessions, two panel discussions, and the newly introduced Seaweed Elevator Pitches. This innovative format allowed for a rapid yet thorough exploration of various projects, providing attendees with a broad spectrum of insights into the seaweed industry. With nearly 50 speakers, including international experts from organizations such as the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Cargill, EY, the World Bank Group, and Hatch Blue, the conference offered a wide array of perspectives on seaweed farming, innovations, and regulatory frameworks.

Key topics discussed during the conference included the Alaskan seaweed industry, investment opportunities, marketing strategies, and the global outlook on seaweed cultivation. Additionally, a special session titled “Ask a Kelp Farmer,” supported by Greenwave, provided the opportunity to learn from seaweed farmers and pose questions. Another notable highlight was the launch of a Congressional Report on seaweeds by Bigelow Laboratory Ocean Sciences, underscoring the increasing importance of this industry at the national policy level.

Seagriculture USA 2024 opens in Ketchikan, Alaska

“Seagriculture USA 2024 has been a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation within the seaweed industry. The enthusiasm and insights shared at this year’s conference reaffirm our belief in the potential of the seaweed industry to address global challenges,” said Kuno Jacobs, Managing Director of DLG Benelux, the organizer of the Seagriculture conferences.

The conference also featured a trade show where 12 leading exhibitors showcased the latest technologies, equipment and insights in the seaweed industry. The trade show was a hub of activity, with attendees engaging in lively discussions and networking with exhibitors, reflecting the event’s dynamic and interactive nature.

Networking was a key focus of this year’s conference, with several innovative formats introduced to enhance participant interaction. Before the conference began, attendees had the opportunity to connect during a happy hour hosted by Blue Robotics.

After the first day of the conference, participants gathered at the Lumberjack Show for a get-together, experiencing the local flavor of Ketchikan while deepening their professional connections. The conference concluded with a soiree at the Salmon Falls Resort, where attendees reviewed the conference discussions and continued to build relationships with business leaders, entrepreneurs, and industry peers from the Ketchikan area.

Seagriculture USA 2024 has once again proven to be an indispensable event for the seaweed industry, pushing the boundaries of innovation and collaboration. As the conference continues to grow, it remains committed to steering the future of the seaweed industry toward new and sustainable frontiers.

More Seagriculture events are coming up in in 2025:

• Seagriculture Asia-Pacific, 18 – 20 March 2025, Adelaide, Australia
• Seagriculture EU, 17 – 19 June 2025, Rotterdam, The Netherlands

For more information go online to the Seagriculture website.

Q&A session at Seagriculture USA 2024