Royal Caribbean Launches Small Business Accelerator Program in Seward
Photo Credit: Royal Caribbean Group
With development progressing on a $137 million cruise ship terminal in Seward, Royal Caribbean cruise line is partnering with local organizations to support the small businesses that will serve its passengers during port calls. The company, which has a thirty-year commitment to using the terminal, launched the Port Partners to empower community businesses and accelerate aspiring entrepreneurs.
Building Dreams and Partnerships
Port Partners entails a ten-week academic course, personalized mentorship and coaching, and an interactive pitch competition that culminates in a $20,000 grant awarded to one standout participant to help make their business dream a reality.
Details were unveiled at The Seward Chamber of Commerce Small Business Appreciation Event during Alaska Entrepreneurship Week. Key partners included the Alaska Vocational Technical Center (AVTEC), the state-run trade school in Seward; the University of Alaska; the Seward Small Business Development Center; and the City of Seward.
Royal Caribbean says the program is 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. This inaugural Port Partners effort is an effort aimed at uplifting future entrepreneurs in Seward.
“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,” says Preston Carnahan, vice president of destination development for the West Coast region of 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.”
Current Issue
October 2025
Residents of Seward who are interested in growing a business idea, whether in the conceptual phase or in early operational stages, are welcome to apply. Applications are being accepted through December 15. Those selected will be notified in January 2026, with the program starting in February 2026.
Taught by an AVTEC instructor over a ten-week period, the curriculum covers small business creation and development. Participants will be paired with successful local entrepreneurs in mentorship sessions to gather lessons learned, career highlights, and advice. 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.
“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,” says Cory Ortiz, 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.”
Both AVTEC and the UA system are developing a pathway for participants to earn course credits.
“The University of Alaska is proud to support the Port Partners program in collaboration with Royal Caribbean Group, AVTEC, and other partners in Seward,” says Teri Cothren, University of Alaska associate vice president of workforce development. “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.”
Royal Caribbean says Port Partners embodies part of its “SEA the Future” strategy. “S” stands for “sustaining our planet.” “E” stands for “energizing communities” through initiatives such as workforce development and small business support. And “A” stands for “accelerating innovation” through technological efficiencies.
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