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The government’s Fisheries and Seafood Scheme (FaSS) is being relaunched with £132 million in funding and wider eligibility.
The scheme, first set up in 2021, supports the fishing industry, seafood businesses and coastal communities in England.
In response to feedback from stakeholders, the fund’s eligibility has been expanded to businesses, organisations, education institutions, community groups and charities of all sizes, as well as port authorities, harbours and coastal councils.
Projects that the funding supports has also been expanded to include improving workforce development, health and safety, seafood processing, community partnerships and local regeneration, port and harbour infrastructure, and trade and market access.
Around £6 million has been ring-fenced specifically for small-scale coastal fishers, with guidance and practical support available throughout the application process. This is likely in respond to previous criticism that the scheme did not support small companies.
Funding applications will assessed by panels. The 2026 deadlines are 1 May, 12 June and 4 September. Find full details here.
Fisheries minister Dame 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.
“With £132 million available over the next five years, the relaunched Fisheries and Seafood Scheme will help businesses and organisations of all sizes to build long-term resilience across the industry.
“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 Fisheries and Seafood Scheme is run by the Marine Management Organisation and funded through the £360 million Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund.