Fisheries Innovation Fund
The Fisheries Innovation Fund supports research and projects advancing sustainable fisheries, bycatch reduction, aquaculture, and technological innovation in U.S. fishing communities.
Funder: National Fish and Wildlife Foundation
Due Dates: June 3, 2026 (Contract to Develop an Analysis of the Potential Link Between Coastal Habitat Restoration and Fisheries) | October 2, 2025 (Electronic Monitoring and Reporting Grant Program 2025-2026 RFP closed)
Funding Amounts: Typical awards range from ~$25,000 to $275,000 per project; total annual funding varies by RFP; multi-year and matching funds often encouraged.
Summary: Supports U.S. fishing communities and projects that foster innovation and sustainability in fisheries through targeted grant programs and partnerships.
Description
The Fisheries Innovation Fund, managed by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, is a competitive grant program established to foster innovation and support active participation of fishermen and fishing communities in implementing sustainable fisheries across the United States. The Fund encompasses several targeted initiatives, including the Electronic Monitoring and Reporting Grant Program and the New England Gear Innovation Fund, each with distinct requests for proposals (RFPs).
Key priorities include:
- Bycatch reduction
- Enhancement of recreational fisheries
- Offshore aquaculture
- Community capacity building
- Sustainable seafood production and market innovation
Projects are often locally driven, addressing specific community needs while supporting broader goals of sustaining working waterfronts, livelihoods, and fish stocks. Major funding partners include NOAA, the Walton Family Foundation, and the Kingfisher Foundation, with additional support from public and private partners. Since its inception in 2010, the Fund has supported over 100 projects nationwide, leveraging significant matching funds from grantees.
