Maine Seafood Promotional Council Update
3 March 2025
The Maine Seafood Promotional Council is a key recommendation outlined in the SEA Maine Roadmap for the Future of Maine’s Seafood Economy. FocusMaine was awarded a Domestic Trade Initiative grant from the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development which will support two years of the Council.
The following is a summary of the activities in the first year of this work.
Nationally Renowned Chefs Invited to Maine
The Council hosted its first event, “On the (Seafood) Menu in Maine.” Chefs and journalists were treated to a tuna carving demo by Mr. Tuna and a tasting menu at SoPo Seafood.
Restaurants as far as New Orleans are now serving Maine seafood products as a direct result of this event.
Media pickups for this event reached 2 million+ online readers, with 10,000+ estimated views.
Moving the needle
- June 2024: First monthly Advisory Team Meeting Held
- October 2024: Co-chairs Named: Emily Lane and Togue Brawn
- November 2024: Governance Document Formally Adopted
- January 2025: Council Members Announced
Branding
The Council has and will continue to leverage the Seafood From Maine branding and website.
Fishermen’s Forum
Co-chairs, Emily and Togue, participated in two panels on March 1, 2025 and shared updates on our work.
SENA Maine Reception
The SPC is providing additional resources to the SENA Maine reception to market to key buyers as their presence is hugely impactful. Register here!
Other Activities
Emily and Togue are meeting with other states to learn from their experience, activities, and funding models.
- 1 year left of DECD Domestic Trade Grant
- Searching for additional funding to keep the momentum going and grow our impact.
Want to be involved in upcoming promotional activities? Contact courtney@focusmaine.org
