Royal Caribbean Launches 'Port Partners' in Seward, Alaska with Small Business Accelerator Program

Royal Caribbean Group has launched a business accelerator program in Seward, Alaska, as part of its 'Port Partners' initiative. The program aims to empower entrepreneurs through educational curriculum, mentorship, and a $20,000 grant. It's the first initiative under the 'Port Partners' program, which focuses on economic development, community impact, and environmental protection. The program is open to residents of Seward who have innovative business concepts and will run from February 2026.

Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) has announced the launch of its inaugural business accelerator program in Seward, Alaska, as part of its 'Port Partners' initiative. The program, which is set to commence in February 2026, aims to empower entrepreneurs by providing educational curriculum, mentorship, and a $20,000 grant.

The 'Port Partners' initiative is designed to support economic development, community impact, and environmental protection in destinations visited by Royal Caribbean Group. The Seward program is the first of its kind under this new bespoke initiative, which collaborates with on-the-ground stakeholders to invest in local communities.

The 10-week academic course will be taught by an instructor from the Alaska Vocational Technical Center (AVTEC) and will provide participants with an in-depth understanding of small business creation and development. Participants will also receive personalized mentorship from successful local entrepreneurs and have the opportunity to pitch their ideas to a panel of Seward leaders for a chance to win the $20,000 grant.

Applications for the program are now open and will close on December 15, 2025. Selected participants will be notified in January 2026. The program is open to residents of Seward with innovative business concepts, whether in the ideation phase or early operational stages.

The initiative is a collaborative effort between Royal Caribbean Group, AVTEC, the University of Alaska System, the Seward Small Business Development Center, and the City of Seward. The University of Alaska System is actively developing a pathway for 3 credits to go to course participants upon completion.

"The Port Partners program reflects our deep dedication and gratitude to the people of Seward and other coastal communities," said Preston Carnahan, Vice President, Destination Development, West Coast, Royal Caribbean Group. "This program is more than just a business accelerator - it's an opportunity to make people's dreams a reality."

Cory Ortiz, Ph.D., Director of AVTEC, added, "Strong partnerships like this are vital to building opportunity in Seward and across Alaska. By combining education, mentorship, and real-world support, we're helping local entrepreneurs transform their ideas into businesses that will strengthen our community and create lasting economic impact."

For more information on the program, visit PortPartners.com.