Kelp Climate Fund Evolution
Supporting Farmers and Markets
GreenWave’s Kelp Climate Fund helps ocean farmers succeed—offering critical support to get started, stay afloat, and scale up. Starting in the fall of 2025, the program is evolving, shaped by farmer feedback, real-world harvest data, and our shared vision for the future of ocean farming. We’re making these changes to meet the industry’s most pressing challenges: helping farmers grow more efficiently, connect with markets, and build a stronger, more sustainable industry. The updated structure is designed to promote higher yields and meaningful market connections.
Same Commitment,
More Opportunity
In addition to seed subsidies totaling up to $10,000, we’re offering a new Spring Bonus–an added opportunity to earn based on the kelp you sell or stabilize, rewarding your hard work beyond planting season.
Through this new and improved Kelp Climate Fund, farmers can still earn up to $25,000 per year.
How it Works
Fall Seed Subsidy
$1/foot of seedstring outplanted (up to $10,000)
Paid in full prior to the start of the season to help cover your early-season expenses
Spring Sales & Stabilization Bonus
$1/pound match of kelp sold or stabilized (up $15,000)
Paid in the spring with proof of delivery or processing
This updated structure supports both upfront costs and post-harvest success by:
Helping you start strong with a Fall Subsidy
Rewarding you for moving kelp through the value chain with a Spring Bonus
Whether you're launching your first season or scaling up, this model helps you succeed on your terms—while strengthening the kelp economy for everyone.
FAQs
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Yes. The combined Fall Seed Subsidy and Spring Bonus maintain the same earning potential as before—up to $25,000 per farm.
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You’ll still receive support for up to 10,000 feet at $1/foot. Additional outplanting over 10,000 feet is not eligible for the Fall Subsidy but all outplanted kelp can be used toward the Spring Bonus (up to 15,000 lbs).
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The Fall Seed Subsidy is paid in full prior to the start of the season to help cover your early-season expenses. The Spring Bonus is paid once proof of sale or stabilization is submitted and reviewed.
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No. You can receive the Spring Bonus for any amount of kelp under 15,000 lbs that is either sold or stabilized with proper documentation.
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In addition to the tips provided in our Kelp Climate Fund Evolution document, GreenWave offers many resources that can help you optimize your Spring Bonus. Explore these resources below for primers on relevant topics or assistance from community members on the Hub.
Kelp Marketing and Sales
Stabilizing Kelp
Achieving Higher Yields
Communities on the Hub
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In the spring, you will be eligible for the sales or stabilization bonus pending the submission of any of the following:
Sales
Copy of invoice(s) sent to your customer(s) for kelp sales, OR
Delivery ticket or other form of receipt from buyer
Stabilization
Invoice for costs incurred during outsourced stabilization of kelp (e.g. copacking) OR
Written summary including volume, format and photo documentation of your stabilization process
