Canada and Atlantic Provinces Renew Fisheries Fund With $300 Million Investment

What was announced

Fisheries and Oceans Canada and four Atlantic provinces have extended the Atlantic Fisheries Fund (AFF) for another five years with over $300 million in combined investment. The federal government is contributing 60 per cent of the funding, while Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador are providing 40 per cent. The renewed fund aims to strengthen Atlantic Canada's fish and seafood sector by supporting projects that increase competitiveness, sustainability, and market access globally.

Four funding pillars

The AFF directs investment across four strategic areas designed to modernize and diversify the Atlantic fisheries industry.

• Market Diversification: support for export-focused advertising, market analysis, industry branding, and research on market access requirements such as regulatory standards
• Innovation: research and development of new innovations, pilot testing, and creation of partnerships and networks to support sector innovation
• Infrastructure: adoption of new technologies, processes, and equipment to improve effectiveness and sustainability, plus associated training
• Science Partnerships: research on ecosystem impacts, sustainable harvesting technologies, and industry partnerships with academic and research institutions

Who can apply for funding

Eligible recipients must be based in a participating Atlantic province or represent a national or regional fish and seafood sector interest, and be active in or support fish and seafood harvesting, processing, or aquaculture activities. Commercial enterprises eligible for funding include sole proprietorships, partnerships, co-operatives, and incorporated entities, as well as Indigenous-owned commercial operations. Non-commercial organizations such as industry associations, post-secondary institutions, research organizations, and Indigenous groups are also eligible. All applicants must have the legal capacity to enter into a contribution agreement.

Eligible activities by pillar

Within each funding pillar, the AFF supports specific activities. Market Diversification projects may include developing quality and sustainability certifications, creating export-focused advertising, conducting market analysis, researching regulatory standards, and hiring marketing managers. Innovation funding covers research and development, pilots and testing of new products or processes, and initiatives that build partnerships in the sector. Infrastructure support includes technology adoption and training on new equipment or processes. Science Partnerships projects focus on research examining ecosystem changes, sustainable harvesting methods, and creating collaborative networks between industry and academic partners.

Next steps

Businesses and organizations interested in applying should consult the official Atlantic Fisheries Fund program page for detailed eligibility criteria, application procedures, and deadlines. The source material does not specify application timelines or submission dates.