The Island Institute has published a new study that describes the growth potential for Maine's edible seaweed market over the next fifteen years. More than 95% of edible seaweed products found in the U.S. are currently imported, yet Maine waters provide the perfect conditions for growing quality sea vegetables locally. Maine aquaculturists areharvesting a highly nutritious, organic product and are seeing a surge in interest in edible seaweed across the country.

Have you ever thought about gaining a new source of income by growing mussels, oysters, or seaweed? The Island Institute is now accepting applications for its 2020 Aquaculture Business Development (ABD) program and is looking to support coastal and island residents who are highly motivated to start shellfish or seaweed aquaculture businesses within the next two years. To be considered for the program, those interested must submit a short, six-question application by March 13th.

The Island Institute has published Waypoints: Connect – Infrastructure Indicators for Maine’s Coast and Islands, the latest edition in the Waypoints series, highlighting key aspects of Maine’s coastal infrastructure systems, focusing on topics where local and state leaders are grappling with change. The featured topics in this infographic-rich publication include: broadband, transportation, energy, trade, working waterfronts, and civic infrastructure. The publication helps coastal and island leaders make data-driven decisions and tell compelling stories of what distinguishes their communities.

The Island Institute announces the election of Vinalhaven resident Emily Lane as the new chairwoman of the board of trustees for the 36-year-old nonprofit community development organization. Based in Rockland, the Island Institute helps sustain island and coastal communities throughout the state by strengthening economies, enhancing education and leadership, and sharing solutions.

Archipelago introduces its new fall and winter gallery show, “Maine Life,” on Friday, October 4, 2019, with a special opening reception, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., during Rockland’s First Friday Art Walk. This show exhibits art that reflects life in Maine and adds beautiful craft and design elements to our living spaces, and features splashes of color, rich landscape scenes, textiles, and stained glass home decor.

oin Archipelago to celebrate Maine's high season with an opening reception for the new summer gallery show, “King Tide,” on Friday, August 2nd. The Island Institute’s store and gallery will host a special artists’ reception, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., during Rockland’s First Friday Art Walk. “King Tide,” showcases the work of four Maine women, each using very different mediums and styles to depict both real and inspired landscapes around our beautiful state.

Join Archipelago and the Island Institute at Union Hall in Rockport on Thursday, July 25th, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., for a special evening highlighting the art and stories of painter Henry Isaacs. In an intimate conversation with art historian and critic Daniel Kany, Henry Isaacs will discuss his process, techniques, inspiration, and greatest influences, as well as Kany's new book, "Travel Notes: Paintings by Henry Isaacs."

The Island Institute, a community development organization serving Maine island and coastal communities, today announces the launch of the Tom Glenn Community Impact Fund, a new catalyst fund which seeks to build a more diverse coastal economy by providing grants, loans, and equity investments for small businesses and municipalities. The Fund was made possible through a grant from The Wilbur and Hilda Glenn Family Foundation to honor Tom Glenn II and his lifelong commitment to Maine’s island and coastal communities.

For the third year in a row, the Island Institute will host its annual Summer Lecture Series, a free lecture series focusing on the Maine coast. Speakers including authors, scientists, community members, and other experts will discuss life along Maine's waterfront and offer their perspectives, reflections, and insights on everything from art and aquaculture to modern-day challenges and connections. The lectures will take place every Wednesday in July, from 10:30-11:30 a.m., at the Island Institute, 386 Main Street in Rockland, and are free and open to the public.

Join Archipelago to celebrate spring and the return of color, foliage, cheerful light, and warmth at the opening reception for its new gallery show, “Spring Tide,” on Friday, June 7th. The Island Institute’s store and gallery will host a special artists’ reception, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., during Rockland’s First Friday Art Walk.