Development of A Self-financing, Sustainable Seaweed Industry for Belize

May 5, 2025

Project Goal:

To create a self-financing, sustainable and mature seaweed industry for Belize.

The project aims to build a self-sustaining, financially viable seaweed industry in Belize. Given that mariculture is a national priority, Blue Nutrients Belize Ltd. will collaborate with farmers to address key challenges such as low-quality seaweed and limited financing. The project focuses on improving quality through training in quality control and establishing sustainable funding for farmers, ultimately enabling industry growth, expanding seaweed purchases, and increasing value for producers.

Funds from Belize Fund ($BZD)$,740Co-financing ($BZD):$,600

Grantee

Location

Thematic Area

Time-frame

February 2025 – April 2027

Project Objectives:

To develop a comprehensive seaweed industry post-harvesting quality control training program.
To train and certify 22 individuals in seaweed post-harvesting quality control.
To develop and market 2 new seaweed value-added products to diversify income and contribute to the capitalization of the new Seaweed Industry Fund.
To create the blueprint of the Seaweed Industry Fund for future capitalization.
To promote collaboration and support from the Ministry of Home Affairs and New Growth Industries.

Expected Outputs:

Training curriculum and manual Seaweed post-harvesting quality control developed.
22 individuals trained and certified in post harvesting quality control.
Two new seaweed value added products (one health food product and one cosmetic product).
Seaweed Industry Fund Blueprint created.
Establish a partnership between the Ministry of Home Affairs and New Growth Industries and Blue Nutrients Belize.