(9-30-2025) - Royal Caribbean Group launches 'Port Partners' in Seward with inaugural small business accelerator program

Royal Caribbean Group launches 'Port Partners' in Seward with inaugural small business accelerator program

Sept. 30, 2025
No. 25-18

SEWARD - Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) has launched an inaugural business accelerator program in the coastal community of Seward, Alaska, unveiling its first initiative in its 'Port Partners' program. Aimed at empowering aspiring entrepreneurs, the robust project entails a 10-week academic course, personalized mentorship and coaching, and an interactive pitch competition culminating in a $20,000 grant awarded to one standout participant to help make their business dream a reality. Port Partners is a new bespoke initiative dedicated to serving destinations the company visits around the world, collaboratively partnering with on-the-ground stakeholders to invest in economic development, community impact, and environmental protection. Embodying the 'Energizing Communities' pillar of its SEA the Future program, this first Port Partners effort offers an exciting, challenging, and rewarding experience that will uplift future entrepreneurs in Seward.

Residents of Seward who are interested in growing their innovative concept - whether in the ideation phase or in early operational stages - are welcome to apply. Details were unveiled at the Seward Chamber of Commerce Small Business Appreciation Event, held in celebration of Alaska Entrepreneurship Week. Key partners included Alaska Vocational Technical Center (AVTEC), a division of the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development; the University of Alaska system; Seward Small Business Development Center; and the City of Seward. Applications are now open to prospective candidates through Dec. 15, 2025. Those selected will be notified in January 2026, with the program starting in February 2026.

Taught by an AVTEC instructor over a 10-week period, the educational curriculum will provide an in-depth understanding of small business creation and development, with a focus on key fundamentals to prepare for a successful launch. Participants will be paired with successful local entrepreneurs in intimate mentorship sessions to gather lessons learned, career highlights, and advice. Both AVTEC and the University of Alaska system are actively developing a pathway for 3 credits to go to course participants upon completion. The cohort will pitch their idea to a panel of Seward leaders for the opportunity to win a $20,000 grant to kickstart their business.

"Port Partners reflects our deep dedication and gratitude to the people of Seward and other coastal communities, where small business innovation lies at the heart of economic development," said Preston Carnahan, Vice President, Destination Development, West Coast, Royal Caribbean Group. "Port Partners is more than just a business accelerator - it's an opportunity to make people's dreams a reality. This program is only possible with the time and effort generously given by AVTEC, City of Seward, the University of Alaska system, Seward Chamber of Commerce and additional partners."

"As Alaska's statewide postsecondary vocational training center, AVTEC is proud to partner with Royal Caribbean Group and other community leaders on the Port Partners program," said Cory Ortiz, Ph.D., Director of AVTEC. "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."

"The University of Alaska is proud to support the Port Partners program in collaboration with Royal Caribbean Group, AVTEC, and other partners in Seward," said Teri Cothren, associate vice president of Workforce Development, University of Alaska. "By creating pathways that connect education with entrepreneurship, we are ensuring Alaskans have the skills, resources, and opportunities to establish and grow businesses that contribute to their local and state economy."

For information on the program, visit PortPartners.com.