PORTLAND, Maine (AP) – A research institute in Maine has been awarded $750,000 from the federal government to help marine startups.

Democratic Rep. Chellie Pingree of Maine said the Economic Development Administration awarded the money to Gulf of Maine Research Institute in Portland. She said the money will support the “Gulf of Maine Blue Economy Initiative,” which is designed to help commercialize the startup businesses.

The institute said the initiative’s goals include improving competitiveness of Maine seafood and creating jobs.