If you work in fisheries or aquaculture in Quebec, funding for science and research can be hard to pin down. Programs often focus on partnerships, applied research, and industry impact—not basic academic work. One of the main options is the Quebec Fisheries Fund – Science Partnerships, a federal program designed to support collaborative research that strengthens Quebec’s fisheries sector.
This guide explains who can apply, what kinds of science projects qualify, and how eligibility is assessed, so you can quickly see if this funding fits your organization.
The Quebec Fisheries Fund (QFF) is delivered by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and supports innovation, science, and partnerships in Quebec’s fisheries and aquaculture sectors. The Science Partnerships stream focuses specifically on collaborative research and applied science.
Science Partnerships is built around collaboration. Eligible applicants typically include:
Most projects involve formal partnerships between industry and researchers, such as a harvesting company working with a university lab or research institute.
To be eligible, projects must:
Projects should show a clear benefit to industry, such as improved sustainability, productivity, or decision-making.
Under the Science Partnerships stream, eligible projects often include:
Projects that combine scientific rigour with practical outcomes tend to score higher during assessment.
Funding under the Quebec Fisheries Fund:
Exact funding amounts are determined during the application and assessment process rather than set as a fixed maximum.
While project budgets are reviewed case by case, eligible costs commonly include:
General operating costs not tied to the project are usually not eligible.
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you quickly filter science and research funding by province, sector, and organization type, saving time before you apply.
Submitting a solo research project
Science Partnerships prioritizes collaboration. Applications without clear industry–research partnerships are less competitive.
Proposing basic or theoretical research only
Projects must show applied value for Quebec’s fisheries or aquaculture sector, not just academic outcomes.
Unclear industry benefit
If it’s not obvious how results will be used by industry or decision-makers, the project may be screened out.
Weak cost-sharing explanation
Budgets should clearly show who pays for what and how partners contribute financially or in kind.
Q: Who can apply for the Quebec Fisheries Fund – Science Partnerships?
Eligible applicants include fisheries and aquaculture businesses, non-profits, research institutions, and Indigenous organizations in Quebec. Most projects involve partnerships between industry and researchers.
Q: Is the funding repayable?
No. Funding is typically provided as a non-repayable contribution, meaning you do not pay it back if project terms are met.
Q: How much funding can a project receive?
There is no fixed amount. Funding levels depend on project scope, total budget, and expected benefits, and are finalized during assessment.
Q: Can businesses partner with universities or research centres?
Yes. Partnerships with universities, colleges, or research institutes are a core feature of the Science Partnerships stream.
Q: Is Quebec Fisheries Fund funding taxable?
Government grants are generally considered taxable income. You should confirm the tax treatment with your accountant based on your organization’s structure.
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