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Educational Institutions
Educational institutions communicate research results to the public and provide a foundation
for informed discussion about society’s interaction with the ocean. Educational
institutions, ranging from the public and private K–16 educational providers, to universities,
to informal venues such as aquaria, also provide a foundation for educating future researchers,
managers, decision-makers, and leaders to expand understanding of the marine
environment and to ensure the safe, effective, and sustainable future use of ocean, coastal,
and Great Lakes resources.
Private Sector
The private sector provides expertise, resources, products, and services; uses research results
in establishing economic development opportunities; and facilitates the development
of research infrastructure. Developing research strategies in conjunction with the private
sector will help ensure that these strategies leverage private-sector expertise, capability,
and resources.
Nongovernmental Organizations
Nongovernmental organizations, such as advocacy groups and philanthropic organizations,
are critical links among communities, whether representing and communicating
needs, distributing resources, acting as conduits for research to enhance ocean literacy,
or serving as stewards for the ocean ecosystem. Engagement of these organizations in
developing plans to address high-priority ocean research is essential to ensure that diverse
sectors have the opportunity to communicate and engage with each other.
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