The UK government has made around £6 million in match funding available to projects that develop the catching, processing and aquaculture sectors or enhance the marine environment.
Administered by the Marine Management Organisation on behalf of Defra, this latest round of the Fisheries and Seafood Scheme (FaSS) builds on the £27 million already supporting more than 1,300 projects.
“Our world-class fishing industry leads the way in making sure we offer the highest quality of seafood, support a multitude of highly skilled jobs and play a valuable role in ensuring our coastal communities thrive,” said Fisheries Minister Mark Spencer.
“This funding will help other projects and businesses to be more sustainable and resilient, enter new markets and improve our efforts to enhance and protect our precious marine environment.”
Successful applicants will be able to invest in a range of activities such as health and safety equipment, processing equipment, vessel modification to improve energy efficiency, innovation partnerships and support to diversify and create new forms of income.
Projects already benefitting from the scheme include the Lyme Bay Fisherman’s Community Interest Company which has received £140,000 to develop a new website, create a seafood trail and school’s outreach programme and supported local businesses and retailers.
Others include Larry’s Fishcakes, a seafood processing business in North Shields, awarded nearly £164,000 to help the company diversify and enter the retail market, the Cornish Fish Producers Organisation with a £310,000 investment to help with marketing and health and safety.
FaSS is open for applications until 31 March 2025 or until all funding has been allocated, whichever happens first, and is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
