• 3 min de lectura
• 3 min de lectura
The comprehensive program supporting local entrepreneurs culminated in a pitch competition spotlighting local innovation and economic growth
SEWARD, Alaska— June 9, 2026 — Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL), a global vacation leader, today announced Exit Glacier Greenhouses, pioneered by Sydney Singer, as the recipient of its inaugural Port Partners Small Business Accelerator Award, recognizing the company's potential to drive economic growth, create local opportunity, and contribute to the long-term vitality of the Seward community.
Exit Glacier Greenhouses aims to provide Seward, Alaska with year-round produce and deliver premium quality freshness and taste, grown with the lowest environmental impact. In a state where more than 95% of food is imported, the need to develop resilient, eco-friendly infrastructure to ensure community food security is critical. With the $20,000 grant, Singer plans to begin development of six pre-designed, crop-specific greenhouse modules with solar powering. Upgraded infrastructure will expand production from 2026's anticipated 700 pounds of seasonal production to 4,000 pounds of food within a year.
"I look forward to growing my business to ensure that all 2,900 Seward residents can have access to much-needed fruits and vegetables for a healthy diet, made possible through the Port Partners grant," said Sydney Singer, founder of Exit Glacier Greenhouses. "The critical business skills and connections with fellow business owners and mentors I have gained through the program have been invaluable, and I am grateful for the joyful opportunity this has brought to me, my cohort participants, and our community."
The announcement follows the conclusion of the 2026 Port Partners Small Business Accelerator program in Seward, a multi-month initiative designed to help local entrepreneurs strengthen their businesses through education, mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to funding. Part of Royal Caribbean Group's broader SEA the Future platform, dedicated to Sustaining the Planet, Energizing Communities, and Accelerating Innovation, the program was supported by key partners including Alaska Vocational Technical Center (AVTEC), University of Alaska, Alaska Small Business Development Center, Seward Chamber of Commerce, and City of Seward.
"At Royal Caribbean Group, we believe strong communities are essential to delivering exceptional vacation experiences," said Preston Carnahan, vice president, Destination Development, Alaska, West Coast, and Pacific. "The Port Partners program is about investing in local entrepreneurs who are creating opportunities, supporting economic resilience, and helping communities thrive. We congratulate Exit Glacier Greenhouses on this well-deserved recognition and look forward to supporting their continued growth."
Exit Glacier Greenhouses receives $20,000 in funding, college credits, ongoing mentorship from business leaders, and increased exposure through the Port Partners network to help accelerate progress and expand their impact in the region.
This year's program brought together 15 participants from across Seward and surrounding communities for a series of workshops and coaching sessions focused on business planning, financial management, marketing, community engagement, and sustainable growth strategies. Participants were paired with experienced entrepreneurs and industry professionals who provided guidance throughout the program. Graduating participants received three credits from the University of Alaska system and had the chance to pitch their business plan to a group of community leader judges in a live community event.
To spotlight the current and future small business pipeline within Seward, the celebration was catered by Primrose Provisions, Flamingo Lounge, Firebrand BBQ, Alaskan Culinary Experience, and Stoney Creek Brewhouse, with decorations by Lift'd Gifts, and music from Blackwater Railroad.
Fuente: Royal Caribbean group
