Fishers, seafood businesses and coastal communities across England are being encouraged to apply for funding through the Fisheries and Seafood Scheme (FaSS), as the latest funding round reaches its three-month milestone with more than £1 million already approved for projects.
The scheme, administered by the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) on behalf of Defra, reopened on 13 April 2026 and is funded through the Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund, which has committed more than £132 million over the next five years.
“We’ve seen an encouraging response to the Fisheries and Seafood Scheme, with hundreds of applications received and funding already approved for projects across England,” said Paul Errington, acting director of finance at the MMO.
“We’re particularly keen to hear from small-scale operators and fishermen who may not have considered applying yet, this funding is here for you, and we can support you through the application process.”
Since reopening, the MMO has received hundreds of applications and is now encouraging more small-scale operators and fishermen to take advantage of the available funding. A total of £6 million has been ring-fenced specifically for the Small Scale Coastal Fleet, while first-time applicants can access support to help navigate the application process.
FaSS is open to organisations and individuals involved in fishing, aquaculture, seafood processing, marine conservation and related environmental activities. Funding is available for projects ranging from improving shore-based facilities and vessel energy efficiency to enhancing health and safety, supporting environmental restoration, developing new income streams and strengthening workforce skills and community partnerships.
Applications valued below £250,000 are assessed on a rolling, first-come, first-served basis, while larger projects are reviewed by a funding panel. The next panel deadline is 4 September 2026, with an additional submission deadline of 13 November introduced to provide greater flexibility for higher-value applications.
For more information visit the government’s website.
