A major funding boost has been announced for Scotland’s aquaculture innovation sector, with Crown Estate Scotland committing £7 million over five years to support the Sustainable Aquaculture Innovation Cluster (SAIC).
The agreement will see SAIC receive £1.4 million annually to strengthen core operations and provide seed funding for research and development projects. It also marks a significant transition, with SAIC becoming fully independent from the University of Stirling, where it has been hosted since its establishment in 2014.
“This funding represents a substantial investment in that expertise and in the sector more widely,” said Mike Spain of Crown Estate Scotland. “SAIC’s work is vital in supporting constant improvements to one of Scotland’s most important industries.”
The new structure introduces a direct contractual arrangement with the Scottish Government, ensuring clear oversight while enabling SAIC to operate as a standalone legal entity with its own governance model.
Aquaculture remains a key contributor to Scotland’s economy, particularly in rural and coastal regions, supporting jobs, exports and sustainable food production. SAIC plays a central role in linking industry, academia and government to address challenges such as environmental pressures, animal health and climate change.
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The funding agreement, developed with the government’s Marine Directorate, aims to safeguard future aquaculture development while enhancing environmental outcomes.
Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon said the move would ensure ‘world class research and innovation’ continues, supporting resilient coastal communities and sustainable growth.
The new agreement comes into effect on 1 April 2026.
