RCG-Royal Caribbean Group Introduces Exciting Port Partners Program in Seward, Alaska

Royal Caribbean Group (RCG) has launched its first business accelerator as part of its new "Port Partners" initiative, choosing Seward, Alaska, as the pilot location. This program features a ten-week curriculum, personalized mentorship, and includes a pitch competition where participants can compete for a $20,000 grant.

Designed to enhance economic development and community engagement, the Port Partners program encourages local residents with entrepreneurial ideas, whether still in the planning phase or already in operation, to apply. The application deadline is December 15, 2025, with selections announced in January 2026, and the program set to begin in February.

Participants will receive instruction from an educator at AVTEC, covering essential business development concepts. Additionally, they will be paired with experienced local entrepreneurs for personalized mentoring. The University of Alaska system and AVTEC are collaborating to potentially offer this course as a 3-credit program. The initiative will culminate in a pitch session in front of Seward civic leaders, with one entrepreneur awarded a grant to assist in launching or expanding their business.

Royal Caribbean’s vice president of destination development emphasized that the program goes beyond a standard accelerator; it aims to convert local entrepreneurial aspirations into concrete business ventures. Meanwhile, AVTEC’s director highlighted the importance of education, mentorship, and community support in enhancing opportunities within Seward and throughout Alaska.

This initiative is a significant step for Royal Caribbean, marking the first instance of such an embedded capacity-building program in a port community, signifying a strategic link between cruise activities and local economic growth.

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