About Us

Who We Are

The Canadian Seaweed Industry Network (CSIN) is a national initiative dedicated to fast-tracking the growth of Canada’s seaweed sector. With coastlines on three oceans, Canada is uniquely positioned to lead in sustainable seaweed production, research, and innovation. The CSIN serves as Canada’s seaweed hub, acting as a unifying voice for the sector while connecting people, initiatives and ideas across the country — from British Columbia to Atlantic Canada — and linking Canada’s seaweed community with partners and voices across North and South America.

Our mission is simple: to provide a trusted, inclusive platform that represents the Canadian seaweed industry at home and abroad, while supporting industry leaders and creating opportunities for the next generation of talent.

What We Do

The Canadian Seaweed Industry Network brings together a wide range of stakeholders across the seaweed ecosystem, including:

  • Media & Storytellers: Educators, communicators, journalists, and storytellers raising awareness about the potential and impact of seaweed in Canada.

  • Industry & Expansion: Farmers, producers, processors, and developers growing and innovating Canada’s seaweed supply chain.

  • Business & Retail: Entrepreneurs and companies turning seaweed into food, health, cosmetic, and agricultural products to sell globally.

  • Students & Early-Career Professionals: The next generation of researchers, innovators, and leaders shaping the future of the industry.

  • Training & Innovation: Cutting-edge, cross-sector innovation support and training for First Nations, industry and community organizations.

Together, these groups form a connected network that fosters collaboration, supports sustainable growth, and strengthens Canada’s position in the global seaweed market. By uniting voices from across North and South America, the CSIN will ensure Canada is an active and recognized contributor to the international seaweed community.

Students & Early Career Professionals.

Supporting the next generation is a priority for the Canadian Seaweed Industry Network. The seaweed sector is growing quickly, and students and early-career professionals have the opportunity to make an impact across research, innovation, and industry.

Through the CSIN, students can:

  • Learn about internships, scholarships, and placements across Canada.

  • Connect with researchers, farmers, and industry leaders.

  • Explore career pathways for young professionals in the sector.

  • Join events tailored to students, including workshops, webinars, and networking sessions.

We’re developing a student network, launching later this year. In the meantime, students can sign up for our newsletter to stay informed about opportunities and upcoming events.

Events & Networking.

The CSIN hosts and promotes events that bring the seaweed community together. From national conferences to regional workshops, these gatherings provide a chance to share knowledge, showcase innovation, and build connections.

Events are designed for a wide range of participants, from established professionals and researchers to students and newcomers exploring the sector. Whether in person or online, the CSIN events are opportunities to learn, network, and celebrate Canada’s role in the broader North and South American seaweed community.

Swag & Community Spirit

We believe in building a sense of identity and pride in Canada’s seaweed community. Part of that includes fun and visibility — the seaweed-branded swag allows members and purchasers to support the sector and spark conversations about seaweed wherever they go.

seaweed kelp forrest
Kelp floating on the ocean

Our Connection to the PSIA

The CSIN is powered by the Pacific Seaweed Industry Association (PSIA), led by Executive Director Mark Smith. PSIA has been at the forefront of advancing Canada’s seaweed sector on the West Coast, and through the CSIN, this leadership is extended nationally.

Together, the CSIN and PSIA are connecting Canada’s east and west coasts and linking to the broader North and South American seaweed industry. This collaboration ensures that the Canadian seaweed community has a strong, unified voice as the sector grows

kelp forrest underwater
kelp forrest underwater

Our Vision for the Future

The global seaweed market is expanding rapidly, and Canada is ready to take its place as a leader in this space. The CSIN’s vision is to:

  • Strengthen collaboration between farmers, industry, academia, and government.

  • Provide students and young professionals with the tools and opportunities to succeed.

  • Create a recognizable, national seaweed identity that resonates across Canada and abroad.

  • Ensure growth is sustainable, innovative, and inclusive.

  • Act as Canada’s seaweed hub, connecting voices across North and South America.

By working together, we can ensure that Canada’s seaweed industry is competitive globally and a force for sustainability, economic growth, and cultural connection.

Get Involved

The Canadian Seaweed Industry Network is open to everyone who wants to be part of this journey. Whether you’re a student, a farmer, an entrepreneur, a researcher, or simply curious about seaweed’s potential, we welcome your energy and ideas.

The best way to get started is to subscribe to our newsletter, where you’ll receive updates about upcoming events, new resources, student opportunities, and of course, grab some seaweed swag.