Donations And Support
Support Innovation in Education & Human Performance
Your donation helps advance training, research, and workforce development — strengthening readiness across defense, public service, and maritime communities.
Empowering Learners. Advancing Research. Improving Safety.
Spinnaker Institute is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to advancing human performance and education in the public interest.
Build accessible, skills-based learning programs
Expand workforce development and immersive training opportunities
Conduct applied research that improves safety and readiness
Provide open-access tools that make complex knowledge available to all
Every donation helps someone learn, perform, and thrive with confidence.
Building the Maritime Technical Systems Academy
Your support helps us build an online academy that brings practical, technical knowledge to recreational mariners—empowering safer, more self-reliant boating.
Most recreational marine training focuses on safety and licensing—not on understanding or maintaining vessel systems. This leaves a gap between knowing how to operate a boat and knowing how to care for it.
Even USCG-licensed captains receive little technical systems training, and current programs are designed for professional technicians, not everyday mariners.
As a result, boaters often rely on scattered, unreliable information.
The Maritime Technical Systems Academy will change that.
We are developing a nonprofit, online learning platform offering:
Training in electrical, propulsion, plumbing, solar, and mechanical systems
Clear learning paths for boaters, owners, and aspiring technicians
Expert video lessons with downloadable guides
Certificates to build confidence and technical skill
This initiative fills a critical gap in maritime education—creating a trusted, science-based resource for everyone on the water.
Where Your Contributions Go
All donations and grants directly fund the development and delivery of educational and
research programs.
Your contribution supports:
Course Development
Production of online learning content for the Maritime Technical Systems Academy.
Research
Studies in training science, simulation, and learning technology integration.
Scholarships
Free or discounted access for veterans, students, and underserved maritime communities.
Public Resources
Open-access guides, videos, and checklists to help boaters learn safely and independently.
One-Time Gift
Corporate or Foundation Grant
In-Kind Contributions
Make a Difference Today
For sponsorship or partnership opportunities, please contact us.