The UK government has reopened the Fisheries and Seafood Scheme (FaSS), with more than £132 million (more than $176 million USD) available over the next five years for fishing, seafood and coastal projects across England. Managed by the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) through the Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund, the scheme will support ports and harbours, seafood processing, workforce training, supply chains and coastal communities.
The UK government has reopened the Fisheries and Seafood Scheme (FaSS), with more than £132 million (more than $176 million USD) available over the next five years for fishing, seafood and coastal projects across England. Managed by the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) through the Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund, the scheme will support ports and harbours, seafood processing, workforce training, supply chains and coastal communities.
According to the government, changes to the scheme follow discussions with industry groups and other stakeholders. The updated programme now allows applications for multi-year projects and widens eligibility to more organisations and businesses.
Fishing and aquaculture operators, seafood processors, charities, community groups, universities, coastal councils, port authorities and harbours can apply for funding. Organisations involved in marine environmental work and seafood-related sustainability projects are also eligible.
The government said it wants smaller operators and first-time applicants to take part in the scheme. Around £6 million ($8 million) has been reserved for small-scale coastal fishers, with guidance available during the application process.
UK fisheries minister Angela Eagle said: “The sector told us what they wanted and we listened. This scheme is the start of change, beginning with ring-fenced support for the small-scale coastal fleet, funding rounds to support higher value projects and multi-year funding. Whether that’s through safer vessels, better seafood processing facilities, stronger supply chains, or improved port infrastructure, this funding is designed to make a real and lasting difference.”
The wider Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund is expected to provide £304 million (more than $405 million) over 12 years.
Paul Errington, acting director of finance of MMO: “With this new funding we can continue to build on the legacy of this scheme and ensure the long-term success and sustainability of key coastal industries and communities.”
The MMO will review smaller applications directly, while projects worth more than £250,000 ($333 million) will go before a panel. Submission deadlines for larger projects in 2026 are on 1 May, 12 June and 4 September.
Applicants who are unsure about eligibility or project requirements can submit an expression of interest before making a full application.
According to the government, changes to the scheme follow discussions with industry groups and other stakeholders. The updated programme now allows applications for multi-year projects and widens eligibility to more organisations and businesses.
Fishing and aquaculture operators, seafood processors, charities, community groups, universities, coastal councils, port authorities and harbours can apply for funding. Organisations involved in marine environmental work and seafood-related sustainability projects are also eligible.
The government said it wants smaller operators and first-time applicants to take part in the scheme. Around £6 million ($8 million) has been reserved for small-scale coastal fishers, with guidance available during the application process.
UK fisheries minister Angela Eagle said: “The sector told us what they wanted and we listened. This scheme is the start of change, beginning with ring-fenced support for the small-scale coastal fleet, funding rounds to support higher value projects and multi-year funding. Whether that’s through safer vessels, better seafood processing facilities, stronger supply chains, or improved port infrastructure, this funding is designed to make a real and lasting difference.”
The wider Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund is expected to provide £304 million (more than $405 million) over 12 years.
Paul Errington, acting director of finance of MMO: “With this new funding we can continue to build on the legacy of this scheme and ensure the long-term success and sustainability of key coastal industries and communities.”
The MMO will review smaller applications directly, while projects worth more than £250,000 ($333 million) will go before a panel. Submission deadlines for larger projects in 2026 are on 1 May, 12 June and 4 September.
Applicants who are unsure about eligibility or project requirements can submit an expression of interest before making a full application.
