The Massachusetts Marine Fisheries Institute (MFI) serves as a national model for consolidating and focusing regional assets and expertise to tackle vital marine fisheries questions. Through a cooperative partnership with the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries and the Department of Fisheries Oceanography at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth School for Marine Science and Technology, the MFI enhances the state's ability to positively affect marine fisheries management in the state and throughout the Northeast.

The MFI exists to promote sustainable fisheries by providing timely information needed to protect, conserve, and manage Massachusetts' marine and coastal resources. The federal government recognizes the strength of the Massachusetts MFI, and through the efforts of the Massachusetts congressional delegation, including Congressman Barney Frank and Senators Edward Kennedy and John Kerry, it has awarded funding to the MFI through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration [NOAA]. In addition, Massachusetts State Senators Bruce Tarr and Mark Montigny and Representatives John Quinn and Anthony Verga continue to be staunch supporters of the MFI.