Youth Marine Foundation

What Youth Marine Foundation does

Youth Marine Foundation (YMF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1992 and headquartered at 820 East D Street, Tacoma, Washington, providing hands-on maritime training and STEM education to youth and underserved adults in the Puget Sound region. The organization's core operating asset is the 110-foot MV Doolin-Rogers training vessel, acquired from Sea Star Base Galveston in December 2021 following a multi-million-dollar 2015 remodel, supplemented by a small fleet including a 26-foot Motor Lifeboat, kayaks, sailboats, and chase boats at the Tacoma Sea Scout Base campus.

YMF operates a hybrid program portfolio: K-12 floating classroom STEM experiences in partnership with Tacoma Public Schools' Science and Math Institute (SAMI) and Tacoma School of the Arts (SOTA); the Sea Scout Ship 110 youth mentorship program (operating continuously since 1923) serving approximately 100+ youth annually; and the WAVE Seafarer Readiness Program, a free 40-hour maritime workforce training initiative funded by Washington State Department of Transportation that delivers U.S. Coast Guard-approved Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) and TWIC credentials to economically disadvantaged adult jobseekers. YMF also functions as a Third-Party Agent for MMC applications.

The business model combines four revenue streams: tax-deductible charitable donations ($50/month to $2,500+ tiers via PayPal), charter-based event rentals (corporate retreats, weddings, fundraisers accommodating up to 80 guests), fee-based educational programming for schools and youth organizations, and corporate sponsorships from PSE, Heritage Bank, and Schnitzer Steel. The organization is governed by an independent board including representation from Port of Tacoma, Petrich Marine Dock, Heritage Bank, Radius Recycling, and LeMay Family Foundation Trust, with leadership including CEO Sandesh Sadalge, President Tom Rogers, and Executive Director/CEO Kim Mercier.

Name

Youth Marine Foundation

Legal name

Youth Marine Foundation

Website

https://tacomaymf.org

Company type

Private

Founded year

1992

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

1–10 employees

Short description

Youth Marine Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Tacoma, Washington, operating the 110-foot MV Doolin-Rogers training vessel to deliver hands-on STEM education, maritime credentialing, and workforce training to K-12 youth and underserved adults in the Puget Sound region.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Youth Maritime Education and Training

NAICS

Technical and Trade Schools (6115), Educational Support Services (611710), Ship Building and Repairing (336611)

SIC

Services-Educational Services (8200), Services-Membership Sports & Recreation Clubs (7997), Ship & Boat Building & Repairing (3730)

akta.pro primary industry

Merchant Marine & Deck Operations (EDAOANAA)

akta.pro secondary industries

Educational Cruises & Shipboard Learning Programs (THAKAGAM), Maritime Safety Management Systems & Training (ISM/ISO 45001, Drills, Competency) (TLAHANAF)

Keywords

• Youth maritime education
• Maritime workforce training
• Marine science programs
• Vessel charter services
• Merchant mariner credentials

Headquarters

HQ city

Tacoma

HQ country

United States

HQ region

North America

Offices1 record

Markets served

GTM type

B2B and B2C

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Operations, Infrastructure, Marketing or Sales, Others

Revenue model

1. Donations and Charitable Contributions: 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization generating revenue through tax-deductible donations from individuals, corporations, and foundations. EIN 91-1536334. Donation tiers range from $50/month to $2,500+ one-time contributions supporting youth programs, vessel maintenance, and scholarships.
2. Charter Services and Event Rentals: Revenue generated from chartering the MV Doolin-Rogers for corporate retreats, weddings, receptions, holiday celebrations, fundraisers, and educational tours. The 110-foot vessel accommodates up to 80 guests and offers climate-controlled interiors with open-air decks.
3. Educational Programs and Training Services: Revenue from educational field trips, classroom programs, and maritime training courses for schools and youth organizations. Programs include floating classrooms, STEM curriculum, and vessel operation courses.
4. Sponsorships and Corporate Partnerships: Corporate sponsors including PSE, Heritage Bank, and Schnitzer Steel provide financial support in exchange for recognition and association with youth maritime education programs.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion2 records

Distribution channels5 records

Marketing channels6 records

Core offering

Youth Marine Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides hands-on maritime training, STEM-based marine science education, and charter event services centered on its 110-foot training vessel MV Doolin-Rogers in Tacoma, Washington. Its offerings include youth programs (Sea Scout Ship 110, Floating Classrooms, Seamanship Readiness, Vessel Operation courses), the WAVE Seafarer Readiness workforce program for disadvantaged adults, MMC credentialing support, and charter services for corporate retreats, weddings, fundraisers, and educational tours.

Product overview

Youth Marine Foundation operates as a maritime training and education nonprofit offering a fleet of vessels and structured programs. The core fleet includes the MV Doolin-Rogers (110-foot training vessel serving as the primary floating classroom), The Odyssey (90-foot yawl, retired 2024), Motor Lifeboat (26-foot), kayak fleets, sailboats, and chase boats. The organization delivers educational programs including the WAVE Seafarer Readiness Program (free maritime workforce training funded by Washington State DOT), Floating Classrooms (STEM-based learning aboard Doolin-Rogers in partnership with Tacoma Public Schools), STEM-Based Curriculum for educators, Vessel Operation and Management Course, Seamanship Readiness Program (four-week intensive with Coast Guard certifications), and Merchant Mariner Credential support. Additional offerings include Sea Scouts Ship 110 mentorship program, charter services for events (corporate, weddings, holidays, fundraisers), education and vessel training field trips, and 360-degree virtual tours of the Doolin-Rogers.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• WAVE Seafarer Readiness Program Free maritime workforce training program for socially and economically disadvantaged adult jobseekers in Washington State, providing 40 hours of hands-on vessel training, job readiness coaching, and credential support (MMC, TWIC card), with placement pathways into Washington State Ferries and the broader maritime industry.
• Floating Classrooms STEM-based educational field trip program aboard the MV Doolin-Rogers in which K-12 students explore Puget Sound through hands-on science, navigation, and marine ecosystem studies, delivered in partnership with Tacoma Public Schools (SAMI and SOTA).
• STEM-Based Curriculum Structured marine science curriculum for private and homeschooling educators, with lesson plans, interactive activities, and real-world applications across oceanography, marine biology, environmental conservation, and maritime technology.
• Vessel Operation and Management Course Introductory maritime industry course held twice weekly for three hours aboard the MV Doolin-Rogers, covering vessel operations, navigation, seamanship, and safety procedures, taught by a retired U.S. Coast Guard veteran with a 100-Ton Master, Near Coastal credential.
• Seamanship Readiness Program Four-week intensive maritime training program combining practical shipboard experience and formal instruction in navigation, vessel operations, safety procedures, and seamanship fundamentals, leading to U.S. Coast Guard-approved certifications and the Merchant Mariner Credential.
• Merchant Mariner Credentials (MMC) Support Expert guidance and hands-on support as a U.S. Coast Guard-approved Third-Party Agent for individuals navigating the Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) application process, including document preparation, submission, and regulatory requirements.
• Sea Scouts Ship 110 Mentorship Program Year-round mentorship and seamanship program for youth ages 13-21, providing practical navigation, vessel maintenance, safety, leadership, and career exploration training in partnership with Sea Scout Ship 110 (operating since 1923).
• Charter Services Event charter services aboard the MV Doolin-Rogers for corporate retreats, weddings and receptions, holidays, fundraisers, and South Puget Sound tours. The 110-foot vessel accommodates up to 80 guests with climate-controlled interiors, open-air decks, full galley access, and optional alcohol service.
• Education & Vessel Training Maritime field trip program aboard the MV Doolin-Rogers exposing students to life at sea through navigation, seamanship, and interaction with maritime professionals, with underway time applicable toward the Able Seaman (AB) certification.

Quantifiable outcome

• 100+ youth served annually through Sea Scout programs
• +2 more outcomes

Named customers7 records

Segments7 records

Ideal customer profiles5 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature4 records

Partnerships

Twelve partnerships are on record, tiered core, major and secondary.

• Sea Scout Ship 110 (Tacoma Sea Scouts)coreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 1923YMF's core programming partner, continuously operating since 1923. YMF provides docks, classroom space, storage, and use of small vessel fleet at the Tacoma Sea Scout Base. Approximately 100+ youth registered for full-year program. Youth train aboard Doolin-Rogers and other Coast Guard licensed vessels year-round.
• Tacoma Public Schools - Science and Math Institute (SAMI)coreStrategic or Co-development Partner10-year partnership providing on-the-water educational experiences aboard the Doolin-Rogers. SAMI offers integrated, inquiry-based curriculum combining science, math, arts, and environmental studies. YMF provides hands-on STEM learning, marine conservation, navigation, and ecosystem studies while exploring Puget Sound.
• Tacoma School of the Arts (SOTA)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerPartnership providing rigorous visual and performing arts education blended with maritime experiences. YMF expands access to dynamic, real-world learning that connects students to the water in meaningful ways.
• Port of TacomamajorStrategic or Co-development PartnerIn 2012, YMF leased its present property and purchased marine businesses including boat repair facility and fuel dock from the Port of Tacoma to help fund youth programs.
• Metro Parks Sails & Trails CampssecondaryStrategic or Co-development PartnerYouth-focused outdoor maritime programs and camping experiences collaborating with YMF's training facilities and vessels.
• Foss Waterway Seaport MuseumsecondaryStrategic or Co-development PartnerHeritage museum partnership featuring hands-on displays, wooden boat shop, and functional dock. Collaborates on maritime education and community engagement.
• Sea Star Base GalvestonmajorStrategic or Co-development PartnerAcquired the MV Doolin-Rogers training vessel from Sea Star Base in Galveston, Texas. The multi-million-dollar vessel underwent extensive remodel and was transported to Pierce County, Washington.
• PSE (Puget Sound Energy)majorGTM or Marketing PartnerCorporate sponsor providing financial support for youth maritime and marine science training programs.
• Heritage BankmajorGTM or Marketing PartnerCorporate sponsor with 100+ years of community leadership, supporting youth programs. Representative Ann Fish serves as YMF Secretary.
• Schnitzer SteelmajorGTM or Marketing PartnerCorporate sponsor supporting youth maritime and marine science training in the South Sound community.
• City of TacomamajorStrategic or Co-development PartnerIn 2013, acquired 30x80-foot building from the city for youth classroom and program space for training classes.
• Washington State FerriessecondaryGTM or Marketing PartnerWAVE Seafarer Readiness Program connects graduates to job opportunities in Washington State Ferries and the broader maritime industry.

Scale indicators7 records

Recent moves11 records

Expansion highlights4 records

Direct peers

• Sound Experience: Port Townsend, WA-based nonprofit running youth sail-training and marine education programs in the Puget Sound region on the historic schooner Adventuress. Comparable youth maritime education mission, geographic market, and nonprofit funding model.
• Oliver Hazard Perry Rhode Island: Rhode Island nonprofit operating a 196-ft tall ship for youth maritime education and credentialing. Closely comparable nonprofit tall-ship training model serving K-12 and career-track maritime students, with similar reliance on donations, charters, and crew credentialing.
• Pacific Maritime Institute: Seattle-based maritime training organization offering USCG-approved credentialing courses and STCW-compliant programs. Directly comparable in serving the same Pacific Northwest maritime workforce pipeline with similar course catalog and credentialing focus, though structured as a for-profit operator.
• Living Classrooms Foundation: Baltimore-based nonprofit providing hands-on maritime workforce training and STEM education for underserved youth aboard working vessels. Directly comparable dual mission of maritime career pipeline + STEM education + credentialing, with similar reliance on corporate and government funding.
• Sea Star Base Galveston: Galveston-based youth maritime education nonprofit operating a Sea Scout base and fleet of training vessels — directly comparable mission, customer base, and operating model. Notably, Sea Star Base was the prior owner of the MV Doolin-Rogers before selling it to YMF in 2021, demonstrating near-identical operating footprints.

Others

• Tall Ships America: National membership organization supporting sail training and tall ship education programs across the US. YMF operates in this ecosystem as a member organization with similar program structures, and the relationship is more enabling/ecosystem than competitive.

Broad incumbents

• Maine Maritime Academy: Four-year maritime academy in Castine, ME producing licensed mariners and marine engineers. Comparable credentialing mission but at much larger institutional scale with degree programs, federal aid, and a dedicated training vessel.
• Seattle Maritime Academy: Degree-granting maritime academy within Seattle Central College offering associate degrees and USCG credentialing. Comparable Pacific Northwest maritime workforce training market but at a larger, more institutionalized scale with federal financial aid eligibility.
• Cal Maritime (California State University Maritime Academy): Four-year California state maritime academy producing licensed merchant mariners. Comparable core mission of producing credentialed maritime workforce, but operating at significantly larger scale as a public university with federal aid.

Emerging players

• Northwest Maritime: Port Townsend-based maritime education and wooden boat skills nonprofit. Comparable Pacific Northwest focus and youth/adult maritime training mission, though smaller scale and narrower curriculum than YMF.

Market position

Strengths4 records

Weaknesses4 records

Competitive moat4 records

Key risks5 records

Key highlights6 records

Customer concentration

• Xx.com/YMF_Tacoma
• Facebookfacebook.com/tacomayouthmarinecenter
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/tacomaymf

Compliance1 record

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles14 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Youth Marine Foundation