Grant News
The UK Government has announced that the relaunched Fisheries and Seafood Scheme is now open to applicants across England, with more than £132 million available over the next five years through Defra’s Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund.
Administered by the Marine Management Organisation, the scheme is designed to support projects that strengthen the long-term sustainability, resilience and prosperity of the seafood sector and coastal communities.
The fund is open to a broad range of applicants, including commercial fishing, aquaculture and processing businesses, marine environmental organisations, local authorities, ports and harbours, universities, research institutes, and some new entrants to the sector.
Small-scale operators and first-time applicants are encouraged to apply, and around £6 million has been ring-fenced for small-scale coastal fishers. Standard applications can seek up to £250,000 per applicant per year, while larger projects over £250,000 can go through competitive funding rounds. Match funding is required.
Funding can support:
- workforce development, skills and new entrants;
- health and safety improvements;
- seafood processing, marketing and supply chain infrastructure;
- community partnerships, local regeneration and port or harbour improvements;
- environmental sustainability, biodiversity and marine litter projects.
Larger projects must meet funding round deadlines of 1 May, 12 June and 4 September 2026, with decisions following an appraisal period of around 8 to 12 weeks.
Useful Links:
More information on the Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund