Fisheries and Seafood Scheme Enhances Support for Grants on New Engines and Gearboxes for Vessels

The recent funding initiative aims to assist fishing vessels in modernising their operations and enhancing efficiency, ultimately leading to a reduction in engine emissions. Eligible projects can now apply for financial support through a streamlined application process. This programme, managed by the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, is part of the £132 million investment pledged to the Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund over the next five years.

Grant Availability for Vessel Upgrades

As of today, fishermen are invited to apply for grant contributions to facilitate the installation of new engines and gearboxes on their vessels. The support rates are structured as follows:

• 65% contribution for the Small Scale Coastal Fleet (SSCF) for new petrol or diesel engines
• 50% contribution for all other vessels installing new petrol or diesel engines
• 90% contribution for electric or hybrid engines, irrespective of vessel or business size

These rates build on previous support provided through the UK Seafood Fund and offer enhanced assistance for the Small Scale Coastal Fleet, underscoring the government’s ongoing commitment to supporting smaller operators. By promoting the adoption of lower-carbon technologies where feasible, these adjustments aim to enhance efficiency and minimise emissions within the fishing sector, fostering sustainable long-term growth.

High Demand for Funding and Support

Since the reopening of the Fishing and Seafood Scheme (FaSS) on 13 April 2026, there has been significant interest from the industry, with over £5 million already approved for various projects. The MMO remains dedicated to assisting first-time applicants to navigate the application process successfully.

The scheme is accessible to anyone engaged in fishing, aquaculture, seafood processing, marine conservation, or related environmental activities. It supports a diverse array of initiatives, including:

• Enhancing the resilience and sustainability of shore-based facilities
• Cooperative activities aimed at building capacity and providing advisory services
• Fishing-related initiatives, such as energy improvements on vessels
• Health and safety enhancements
• Achieving good environmental status through the conservation and restoration of marine ecosystems
• Diversification and the exploration of new income streams

Applicants are encouraged to consult the relevant guidance notes for the specific type of project they wish to seek funding for prior to submitting an application.

Priorities and Application Details

This year’s funding priorities focus on labour and workforce development, community partnerships, and infrastructure improvements. Applications seeking grants of £250,000 or more will require consideration by the funding round panel.

An additional panel deadline for projects exceeding £250,000 was introduced earlier this year, with the deadline set for Friday, 13 November 2026. This extension allows applicants with high-value projects additional time to submit their proposals. Projects below £250,000 will be evaluated on a first-come, first-served basis, with further panel dates for 2027 to be announced in due course.

Encouraging Participation in the Scheme

Paul Errington, Acting Director of Finance at MMO, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, stating: “This is a great opportunity for operators of all sizes to invest in their vessels, and I’d encourage anyone considering an engine upgrade to look at the expanded scheme and make the most of the support that is available. Whether you’re contemplating a new diesel engine or transitioning to electric or hybrid, we can provide meaningful assistance for that shift.”

For further information and to apply, please visit: www.gov.uk/guidance/fisheries-and-seafood-scheme.

For assistance with the application process, please contact the grants team:

• Telephone: 0208 026 5539
• Email: FaSS.queries@marinemanagement.org.uk

The Fishing Coastal Growth Fund in England is designed to function as a multi-year funding scheme, with an overall value of £304 million over a period of 12 years. Approximately £132 million is anticipated to be distributed by the financial year 2030 to 2031.