If your business or organization works in fishing, aquaculture, or seafood processing in Atlantic Canada, the Atlantic Fisheries Fund (AFF) can help cover the cost of innovation, infrastructure upgrades, and collaborative science projects. This federal program supports projects in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador that improve sustainability, productivity, and long-term competitiveness.
The Atlantic Fisheries Fund is ongoing and application-based, not a one-time intake. That means understanding how to apply—and which stream fits your project—is important.
The Atlantic Fisheries Fund is a Government of Canada program delivered by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO). It supports projects that strengthen the Atlantic fish and seafood sector through three core streams:
Projects must be based in Atlantic Canada and directly relate to fisheries, aquaculture, or seafood processing.
The fund supports a wide range of activities, including research and development, pilot projects, adoption of new technology, and collaborative science that improves sustainable harvesting and ecosystem understanding.
Eligibility depends on your organization type and project focus. Based on program criteria, eligible applicants typically include:
Your project must:
This stream supports projects that improve efficiency, quality, or sustainability through new or improved processes.
Examples include:
Projects often involve technical risk and clear performance outcomes.
The infrastructure stream focuses on physical upgrades that support long-term productivity and safety.
Examples include:
These projects are usually capital-intensive and require detailed cost breakdowns.
Science partnerships support collaborative research between industry and science organizations.
Examples include:
These projects must involve collaboration and clear knowledge-sharing outcomes.
Funding amounts vary based on:
The Atlantic Fisheries Fund provides contribution funding, which may be repayable or non-repayable depending on the project and applicant.
Cost-sharing is common. You should expect to contribute a portion of total project costs, either in cash or eligible in-kind contributions.
Because funding structures differ by project, tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you quickly see how this program compares to others in your province and sector. For more guidance, GrantHub also offers resources to help you prepare your application and understand your funding options.
The application process involves several steps and benefits from early contact with program staff. Typical steps include:
Develop a clear project plan
Define objectives, outcomes, timelines, and how the project benefits the sector.
Contact your regional DFO office
DFO encourages early discussions before submitting a full proposal.
Prepare a formal application package
This usually includes:
Undergo technical and financial review
DFO assesses feasibility, impact, and alignment with program priorities.
Sign a contribution agreement if approved
Funding is released based on agreed milestones and reporting.
Approval timelines vary depending on project complexity and completeness.
Applying without early DFO engagement
Projects are stronger when discussed with program officers first.
Unclear sector benefits
Projects must benefit the broader Atlantic fisheries sector, not just your business.
Weak budgets
Missing quotes or vague cost categories can delay or derail approval.
Incomplete partnerships for science projects
Science partnerships require clearly defined roles and collaboration.
Q: Is the Atlantic Fisheries Fund always open?
The program is ongoing, but funding availability depends on regional allocations. Early contact with DFO is recommended.
Q: Is Atlantic Fisheries Fund funding repayable?
Funding may be repayable or non-repayable depending on the project type and applicant. DFO confirms this during assessment.
Q: How long does approval take?
Timelines vary. Complex infrastructure or science projects can take several months due to technical review requirements.
Q: Are research institutions allowed to apply on their own?
Research organizations usually apply as partners with industry, especially under the science partnerships stream.
Q: Is Atlantic Fisheries Fund funding taxable?
Government contributions may be considered taxable income. Speak with your accountant for project-specific guidance.
The Atlantic Fisheries Fund can be a strong fit if your project improves sustainability, efficiency, or scientific knowledge in Atlantic fisheries. The key is matching your project scope to the right stream and preparing a solid, well-documented proposal.
GrantHub tracks active fisheries and innovation grants across Canada—check which programs align with your location, project type, and funding needs before you apply. You can use GrantHub’s resources to stay up to date on deadlines and eligibility for similar grants in your sector.
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