The North Coast Cetacean Research Initiative (NCCRI) was established in Prince Rupert in 2014 and has since grown to become a dynamic community-based program of cetacean research, conservation, and public outreach with broad collaborative links with industry, government, First Nations, and educational institutions. The NCCRI contributes to cetacean conservation by upholding several core program mandates. These include (1) conducting research focused on cetacean abundance, distribution, and habitat use in nearshore waters to Prince Rupert; (2) developing and advancing citizen science and applied conservation projects such as the BC Cetacean Sightings Network and the Whale Report Alert System; (3) engaging in conservation management by providing expert knowledge for local advisory boards