A newly formed network is encouraging the fishing industry to come forward with ideas for scientific studies that support evidence-based decision-making in the UK.
The network launched in November 2021 in tandem with the government’s Fisheries Industry Science Partnership (FISP), a £10 million grant scheme managed by Defra which seeks to improve data collection, enhance technical knowledge and build a better understanding of the benefits and environmental impacts of aquaculture.
The associated FISP network comprises three charities and was set up to help fishers and scientists jointly develop a scientific proposal in line with the requirements of the grant scheme. The scheme is currently closed, but the network is asking for ideas for the next round which is scheduled for spring 2022.
Projects can apply for funding to develop a research study (Part A) or fully developed scientific proposals can apply under Part B of the FISP scheme. Grants of up to £20,000 are available to develop research proposals and contracts of up to £300,000 are available to carry out a full research project.
The three charities involved are the Fishing Animateurs which connects industry with academic institutes, helping write grant application bids; Fishing into the Future with its emphasis on helping industry, science and government share knowledge; and The Fishmongers’ Company’s Fisheries Charitable Trust which offers match-funding for bids approved under the FISP scheme.
More information can be found at the Fishing Animateurs website.
