The Fisheries and Seafood Scheme (FaSS) has funding available and the MMO is now encouraging small-scale operators and fishermen to come forward and apply.
A £6 million funding pot has been ring-fenced for the small-scale sector, and MMO is also offering support for first time applicants to help them through the application process.
‘We’ve seen an encouraging response to the Fisheries and Seafood Scheme, with hundreds of applications received and funding already approved for projects across England,’ commented Paul Errington, MMO acting Director of Finance.
‘We’re particularly keen to hear from small-scale operators and fishermen who may not have considered applying yet, this funding is here for you, and we can support you through the application process. We’re also pleased to provide a new panel date for higher value submissions in November.’
The scheme reopened in April this year and is administered by MMO on behalf of the Defra. It is funded from the over £132 million committed to the Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund over the next five years. Since reopening this year MMO has received a high level of interest and already approved over £1 million of investment in projects.
The scheme is open to anyone involved in fishing, aquaculture, seafood processing, marine conservation or related environmental work. It can support a wide range of activities. These include improving the resilience and sustainability of shore-based facilities, cooperative activities, building capability and advisory services, fishing-related activities including energy improvements on a vessel, health and safety improvements, achieving good environmental status through the conservation and restoration of the marine environment, and diversification and new forms of income.
This year’s priorities for funding rounds are labour and workforce development, community partnerships, and infrastructure.
