Key Takeaways
- Strategic Investment: RuralWorks Partners, LLC (RuralWorks), an impact-driven investment firm, announces a strategic investment in American Unagi, Inc. (AU).
- Sustainable Aquaculture Leader: American Unagi is the only US producer and processor of locally sourced and harvested American Eel (Unagi), committed to sustainable practices.
- Local and Global Impact: This investment by RuralWorks supports AU’s expansion in the US market, catering to increasing consumer demand for sustainable seafood.
- Community and Environmental Focus: AU’s operations, in collaboration with the Passamaquoddy Tribe, emphasize local community growth and environmental sustainability.
- Aligned Missions: RuralWorks and AU are committed to fostering rural community growth, environmental sustainability, and responsible natural resource management.
RuralWorks Invests in Sustainable Seafood Innovator, American Unagi
RuralWorks Partners, LLC Announces Strategic Investment
RuralWorks Partners, LLC (RuralWorks), an impact-driven investment firm, has strategically invested in American Unagi, Inc. (AU). Based in rural Maine, AU is the sole producer and processor of locally sourced and harvested American eel, also known as Unagi, in the United States.
Disrupting the Traditional Eel Supply Chain
American Unagi is revolutionizing the traditional eel supply chain, challenging the dominance of imports from China. With this new investment, AU is set to expand its reach within the 5000 metric ton US market. The company’s innovative approach allows them to meet the increasing consumer demand for sustainable, traceable seafood. This demand is partly driven by the growing popularity of Japanese cuisine in the United States.
Community-Centric Approach
AU operates in close partnership with the local Passamaquoddy Tribe. Their business model is unique, emphasizing traceability and accountability, with products traceable to the specific fisherman harvesting the juvenile eels. This collaboration with the local community is a testament to AU’s commitment to community empowerment and sustainable natural resource management.
RuralWorks & AU: A Shared Vision for Sustainability
The founder of American Unagi, Sara Rademaker, emphasizes the company’s dedication to offering consumers a responsible alternative to imported eel products. “Our mission,” she states, “is to provide a traceable and responsible seafood option while promoting community growth and responsible natural resource management.”
Louisa Schibli, RuralWorks Partners’ chief engagement officer, echoes this sentiment. She expresses excitement about supporting American Unagi’s approach to sustainable aquaculture, aligning perfectly with RuralWorks’ mission to build local agriculture and food supply chains, create economic resilience, and promote environmentally responsible solutions.
