Finance is a very important consideration. Private sector financing is generally conservative. Rarely will the private sector be persuaded to finance projects where risks are high, profits uncertain, and past experiences to guide decisions unavailable. Public financial assistance does not currently include specific programs for aquaculture; however, some United States Department of Agriculture programs have been extended to include aquaculture. Additional public financial assistance sources may become available pending the passage of aquaculture-oriented legislation. Thus, the current outlook for financing an aquacultural venture is dim — though the future holds promise.