Seafood businesses and marine organisations in Scotland’s coastal communities are set to benefit from a new year of funding through Marine Fund Scotland.
A total of up to £14 million will be available in 2023/24 to encourage the sustainable use of marine resources to create growth and support livelihoods.
“Our seas and coasts support vital jobs across our economy, especially in coastal and island communities,” said Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon.
“This fund continues to be key in supporting the sustainable development of Scotland’s blue economy and will play an important role in enabling our marine and fisheries businesses to grow.”
Marine Fund Scotland was established after Brexit and replaces funding previously available under the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund. Past projects to benefit include the modernisation of a salmon and trout processing facility, installation of solar panels at a seafood cold store, and process capacity building for a shellfish producer.
Donna Fordyce, chief executive of Seafood Scotland welcomed the announcement. “The Marine Fund Scotland has been crucial in the promotion of Scottish Seafood in both developing new markets for the premium seafood we produce, but also in retaining existing markets,” she said.
“We are now in the midst of a cost of living crisis, which requires continuing effort to ensure that the quality and affordability of Scottish seafood is recognised.”
Applications for funding can be submitted via a new web portal which will be live from 10am on 11 April 2023. The successful candidate to replace Nicola Sturgeon as Scotland’s First Minister will be announced this afternoon.
