MVF - Maine Venture Fund

07/29/2021 | News release | Distributed by Public on 07/29/2021 13:03

True Fin joins the Maine Venture Fund Portfolio

MVF is proud to welcome True Fin to our portfolio of innovative Maine start-ups. True Fin (previously Gulf of Maine Sashimi) launched in 2019 as the first mission-driven business venture of the Gulf of Maine Research Institute's Gulf of Maine Ventures initiative. After watching the region's fishing fleet dwindle amidst declining boat prices and increased competition from imported seafood, True Fin set out to build a better seafood business that works in harmony with the ocean and with regional fishermen.

Committed to providing professional and home chefs the best seafood from the Gulf of Maine, True Fin works directly with Gulf of Maine harvesters to procure the best fish, handled with special care for superior quality. True Fin buys all of its seafood directly from boats in Maine, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts. In exchange for specialized quality handling, the company pays fishermen a premium over traditional markets. 'Last year, fishermen harvested less than 20% of sustainable fish quotas in the region, largely driven by prices that are so low, fishermen can't afford to go fishing,' said Jen Levin, the company's President & CEO. 'We want to change the model, get more money to boats, and harvest more of our sustainable fish stocks locally.'

The catch includes a variety of finfish species, like cod, pollock, hake, and monkfish, as well as seasonally available items, like tuna, halibut, squid, and scallops. The company cuts the fish at its Portland, Maine facility and ships to top chefs and discerning home cooks across the country.

The new name reflects the company's commitment to transparency and authenticity. 'We want everyone to know more about Gulf of Maine seafood, including who harvested it, how to prepare it, and what makes it the best protein for your health and for the environment,' said Levin. On the newly launched website, consumers and chefs across the country will find information about sustainability, Gulf of Maine harvesters, cooking tips, and the chance to buy premium Gulf of Maine seafood directly.

True Fin team: welcome to the Maine Venture Fund portfolio!

See True Fin's updated website: http://www.truefinseafood.com, or follow @truefinseafood.

About Maine Venture Fund

Maine Venture Fund invests in dynamic businesses that have the potential for significant growth and impact in Maine. For more information, visit maineventurefund.com.