© Positively Groundfish
Catch+Create, developed by the nonprofit organisation Positively Groundfish, is a highly resourced, no-equity accelerator focused on supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses to develop value-added products using West Coast Groundfish (e.g. Pacific rockfish, sole, lingcod, sablefish, skate and more). This first-of-its-kind programme is designed to help entrepreneurs create value-added packaged products like canned fish, frozen meals, smoked fish, fish snacks, pet food, or even novel byproduct-based items.
“We see so much untapped potential in these underutilised, well-managed groundfish species. Catch+Create is designed to build a pipeline of market-ready products that not only elevate these species, broaden their appeal and address currently unmet consumer needs, but also create opportunity for income across the value chain and support a thriving local food system,” said Jana Hennig, executive director of Positively Groundfish.
What the programme offers
Five start-ups or teams will be selected to join the inaugural Catch+Create cohort. Participants will benefit from a two-phase programme designed to take products from concept to market launch. Phase one, running from November 2025 to May 2026, focuses on product development and includes a USD 20,000 stipend per team, a structured six-month remote curriculum, biweekly sessions, access to a broad mentor network across the CPG, seafood and retail sectors, extensive market research and peer networking.
Phase two, spanning summer 2026 through to the end of 2027, provides over USD 30,000 in market launch support. This includes exhibition space at two major industry trade shows, professional photography and video assets, a paid social media advertising budget and support from a public relations agency.
Unlike traditional accelerators, Catch+Create is free to join and takes no equity from participants. All ideas are welcome, and applications open on 4 August.
Who should apply?
Applications are open to solo founders or teams, and to new start-ups or existing small businesses aiming to expand into groundfish-based products. Applicants must be based in the US, use West Coast Groundfish in a value-added format and commit to full participation in the programme.
Catch+Create is part of a broader mission to support the long-term economic success of the West Coast Groundfish fishery, which has undergone significant recovery and now represents one of the most sustainably managed fisheries in the country. However, many species remain underutilised due to a lack of consumer familiarity and product innovation.
“This programme is an opportunity to bring more value back to our coast - not just through increased utilisation, but by helping build the next generation of seafood brands and businesses rooted in sustainability and local sourcing,” said Hennig.
For more information or to apply, visit their website.
