National Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program (BREP) - FY2026/27
This grant funds non-Federal researchers to develop and test fishing gear and practices that reduce bycatch and post-release mortality in U.S. fisheries, supporting sustainable fishing and conservation goals.
Funder: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
Due Dates: October 5, 2026 (Pre-proposal) | January 22, 2027 (Full proposal)
Funding Amounts: $50,000–$400,000 per project for 12–18 months; $4.6 million estimated total funding
Summary: Supports applied research on fishing gear and practices that reduce bycatch and post-release mortality in U.S. fisheries.
Key Information: A complete, timely pre-proposal is required to submit a full proposal, regardless of encouragement status.
Description
NOAA Fisheries’ Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program (BREP), administered by the Office of Sustainable Fisheries, supports non-Federal researchers developing improved fishing practices and innovative gear technologies to benefit U.S. fishermen and fisheries, including aquaculture. The program funds development and testing applicable to commercial and recreational fisheries, with the goal of minimizing bycatch, post-release mortality, and habitat impacts.
Projects must address at least one of three priorities: innovative technologies and practices reducing bycatch impacts; further development or testing of proven approaches for fleet- or fishery-scale adoption; or understanding and reducing post-release and other indirect mortality. Preference goes to projects involving U.S. industry or fishermen. Proposals should also address research and management priorities identified by fisheries councils, NOAA regions and science centers, commissions, and other fisheries management bodies.
