The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) is proud to celebrate
the extensive support it has provided to UK's fishing and seafood
industry in 2024 through various administered grant schemes.
In 2024 MMO has delivered £30m in funding to support 535 projects
nationwide. This grant support has been delivered to industry
thanks to a collaboration of teams across the MMO, with funding
provided by the government and the Department for Environment,
Food & Rural Affairs.
These grant funded projects have collectively helped to empower
businesses in the marine and fishing sectors, enhancing their
sustainability and strengthening coastal communities across the
country. They include:
Fisheries and Seafood Scheme (FaSS)
The scheme provides financial assistance for projects that:
-
Support the development of catching, processing, and
aquaculture sectors.
-
Enhance the marine environment.
Open to a broad range of applicants—from businesses to charities
and public organisations - this scheme exemplifies MMOs
commitment to fostering innovation, sustainability, and
resilience across England's seafood supply chain.
Sharing some feedback from industry, Antony Hosking - owner of
two offshore gill netters in Newlyn, comments:
I found the FaSS system easy to use and the MMO grants team were
extremely helpful when I had questions. I would definitely
encourage people to apply for FaSS grants because I have
personally seen the benefits of FaSS funded projects in my local
area in both the catching and processing sectors. Every
project that I have had funding for has made a positive impact to
my business.
Ross King, Under 10m static gear fisherman from Newquay
continues:
I would wholeheartedly recommend the FaSS scheme to anyone who is
eligible. Over the last few years I have benefitted greatly
with some brilliant projects that I am very thankful for the help
and support with. My business and its working practices
have been vastly improved by the MMO funding schemes I have used.
FaSS is currently closed but set to reopen in 2025. People
are advised to check MMOs website for future updates. MMO
continues to celebrate the positive impact of these grants by
sharing Fisheries and Seafood
Scheme: Selected case studies.
UK Seafood Fund – Infrastructure Scheme
(UKSF)
This initiative has been delivered in phases and focuses on
modernising the seafood sector through investments in:
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Upgraded port and harbour capabilities.
-
Processing and aquaculture facilities.
-
Fleet modernisation.
-
Support for recreational sea fishing.
This funding has not only improved industry capacity but also
reinforced the social and economic ties with coastal
communities.
Pollack Compensation Scheme
Launched on 10 April 2024, the Pollack Compensation Scheme has
provided vital assistance to those most impacted by the
bycatch-only pollack fishery in the South-West. The scheme was
shaped in collaboration with industry stakeholders to ensure
targeted support for pollack fishers and their livelihoods.
Paul Errington, MMO Acting Director of Finance and Resources,
said:
We're incredibly proud of the role these grant schemes have
played in strengthening the fishing and seafood industry. By
working closely with stakeholders, we've delivered tangible
benefits to our fishers. businesses and communities, supporting
their long-term growth and sustainability.”
For more information about MMO grant support, please visit:
www.gov.uk/mmo
