Future Ocean Foods, a Halifax-based nonprofit that has positioned itself as a global hub for seafood and seaweed innovation, is seeking new leadership and may be open to acquisition, according to its founder and executive director, Marissa Bronfman.

Founded two years ago, Future Ocean Foods describes itself as the world’s first association dedicated exclusively to alternative seafood and seaweed. The organization brings together 53 member companies across 17 countries, spanning startups, scientists, investors and industry leaders working in plant-based, fermentation and cultivated seafood, as well as related health, wellness and materials sectors.

Bronfman said the organization has reached a point at which new stewardship could help it scale more rapidly. “We’ve built a trusted global network without external funding,” she said in an email. “Now we’re looking for the right steward for the next chapter.”

FOF operates as a turnkey platform, offering industry memberships, corporate sponsorships, global events and summits, data and market insights, and access to grants and partnerships tied to ocean conservation and climate initiatives. Its assets include an established brand and intellectual property, a website and communications infrastructure, an active LinkedIn presence, and a global member database with direct introductions across the blue economy ecosystem, Bronfman said.

While headquartered in Canada, FOF’s footprint is international. Eleven of its member companies are based across Canada, including Atlantic Canadian startups Infusd Nutrition,  Mara Renewables, Profillet and Smallfood. The remainder are spread across Europe, the United States and other global markets.

Bronfman said she has already had exploratory conversations with potential partners outside Canada, though she would welcome continued Canadian leadership.

In a recent LinkedIn post announcing the search, Bronfman outlined three potential categories of buyers or successors she believes would be a strong fit: a venture capital firm focused on the blue economy seeking differentiated deal flow; a company developing products in food, health, wellness or beauty; or a nonprofit or foundation working on ocean sustainability.

The organization’s valuation has been kept “thoughtful and accessible,” Bronfman said, to encourage a smooth transition for a mission-aligned partner. An acquirer would also have the option of assuming FOF’s Canadian nonprofit status and associated benefits.

Future Ocean Foods will continue operating during the transition period as discussions progress.