Fisheries businesses in Canada face higher costs, older facilities, and growing pressure to improve sustainability. Federal fisheries funding programs help you invest in equipment, buildings, and research that boost productivity and protect the environment. For Atlantic businesses, the Atlantic Fisheries Fund is a key option, with dedicated streams for infrastructure, innovation, and R&D.
Canada’s fisheries funding comes mainly from region-focused programs managed by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO). These programs support projects in harvesting, processing, and aquaculture that create real economic benefits.
The Atlantic Fisheries Fund — Infrastructure supports large capital projects that help modernize fisheries in Atlantic Canada.
Who can apply
What the funding supports
Funding structure
You can combine this stream with innovation or science activities, but keep infrastructure costs separate and clear in your budget.
The Atlantic Fisheries Fund — Innovation stream helps businesses develop and use new technologies and methods.
Eligible activities include
This stream works well for businesses investing in automation, digital monitoring, or new processing methods to improve yields or reduce waste.
The wider Atlantic Fisheries Fund also supports science projects focused on sustainability and understanding ecosystems.
Common R&D activities
Some funding in this program may be repayable, depending on how commercial the project is. Always check the funding type before you apply.
Quebec businesses can use the Quebec Fisheries Fund — Infrastructure.
Key details
This program is non-repayable and is similar to the Atlantic model, but only for Quebec.
Most fisheries infrastructure and innovation funding uses a similar process:
A tool like GrantHub can help you quickly check which programs fit your province and industry before you start an application.
Mixing infrastructure and R&D costs
Infrastructure, innovation, and science costs are reviewed differently. If you mix them in one budget line, your application may be delayed.
Not planning for cash flow
Most grants reimburse you after you spend the money. Make sure your business can cover costs upfront.
Weak economic benefit explanations
You must show how your project helps the region, not just your business. Job creation, better productivity, and supply chain impacts are important.
Assuming all funding is non-repayable
Some Atlantic Fisheries Fund contributions must be paid back. Always check the funding type before you accept.
Q: Can small fisheries businesses apply for infrastructure funding?
Yes. Small and medium-sized businesses can apply if they work in the fish and seafood sector and meet regional rules.
Q: Are fisheries grants only for commercial fishing companies?
No. Processing plants, aquaculture businesses, and support organizations may also qualify, depending on the stream.
Q: Can one project include infrastructure and innovation activities?
Yes, but you must separate costs and match them to the right funding stream. DFO reviews these parts on their own.
Q: Are Atlantic Fisheries Fund grants taxable?
Government grants are usually taxable income. Ask your accountant how this affects your business.
Q: How long does approval take?
It depends on the project’s size and complexity. Large infrastructure projects often take longer because of more review steps.
Fisheries infrastructure and R&D funding in Canada depends on your region, your project, and the benefits you can show for the wider sector. Before you start your application, check which programs match your business profile. GrantHub provides updates on hundreds of active grant programs across Canada to help you get started.
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