American Seafoods Opens $150K Grant Program for Western Alaska

American Seafoods Group, the largest at-sea processor of wild Alaska pollock and hake in the United States, has reintroduced its grant program under a new name: The American Seafoods Community Partnership Program.

Based in Seattle, Washington, the company recently announced the relaunch, indicating a significant expansion in its support of organizations in Western Alaska. The revamped program will offer twice the previous amount in grant funding. Annual donations will jump from $90,000 to $150,000, with $75,000 to be distributed biannually. These grants will focus on community projects that address critical issues such as food security and other local needs.

The initiative, which has been in place since 1997, has already provided over $2 million to various organizations and programs across the state. American Seafoods CEO Einar Gustafsson emphasized the importance of this initiative, explaining that it originated in the 1990s out of a desire to support Alaskan communities.

“American Seafoods depends on our Alaskan communities and our Alaskan crew members,” Gustafsson said. “This rebranding, along with the renewed focus and increased financial support, underscores our commitment to partnering with and giving back to Western Alaska. Over the years, our contributions have made a meaningful impact, and we are excited to continue this work as we sustainably harvest wild Alaska pollock. Our goal is to provide assistance and financial support to organizations that are making a real difference in the communities where we operate.”

Past recipients of the program include the Bristol Bay Native Association Food Bank and the Brother Francis Shelter in Kodiak, Alaska. The company is currently accepting applications, with most grants expected to range between $1,000 and $7,500. Eligible regions for applications include Kodiak Island, the Aleutian and Pribilof Islands, the Western Alaska Peninsula, Bristol Bay, Lower Kuskokwim, Lower Yukon, Norton Sound, and communities to the north.

Applications are available at American Seafood Contribution Request Form. The deadline to submit an application is September 16, 2024.