Marine carbon dioxide removal technologies (mCDR) are being developed to enhance the ocean’s capacity as a carbon sink. Effective engagement with local stakeholders is essential for responsible research and deployment. We consider how stakeholders could actively participate in mCDR activities, enhancing their agency and identifying pathways to incorporate their skills and knowledge. Adopting a place-based approach in Tasmania, we interviewed 23 participants and asked them how they might contribute to a particular mCDR proposal: ocean alkalinity enhancement (OAE). Participants saw themselves contributing to one or more activity-based themes: knowledge creation, regulatory oversight, safeguarding values, and/or stakeholder networking. While some responses were predictable (i.e. government representatives adopting regulatory roles), others were unexpected, highlighting the importance of proactive engagement. Several participants identified the need for further support to effectively perform their roles, including expert advice and access to resources. Capacity assessment can evaluate the ability of local stakeholders to play an active role in mCDR activities and thus inform strategies to bolster capacity through learning and infrastructure development. We recommend integrating capacity assessments into stakeholder engagement strategies. Further research is needed to develop and implement capacity assessments for OAE and other mCDR approaches.