Since re-opening in June, the Fisheries and Seafood Scheme (FaSS) has once again attracted a high volume of interest from across the seafood and marine sectors in England. Due to the number and total value of applications received, the scheme is now closed to new applications.

This year’s £6 million funding allocation builds on the more than £35 million already committed through FaSS to over 1,700 projects, supporting innovation and growth across the catching, aquaculture, processing, charity and recreational sectors, as well as efforts to enhance the marine environment.

Applications to FaSS are processed on a first-come, first-served basis. All applications submitted before the closure date are currently being reviewed. Applicants who have received an acknowledgement from the MMO’s grants team will continue through the assessment process. The team will also contact any recent applicants who have not yet received confirmation to advise them of next steps.

Paul Errington, Acting Director of Finance and Resources at MMO, said:

We’re pleased to see another strong response to FaSS this year, with applications that demonstrate the sector’s drive to innovate, build a resilient seafood sector and grow sustainably. The projects that FaSS supports will help boost local economies in our coastal communities and create long-term opportunities across the seafood supply chain.

Applications submitted after 5pm on 25 July 2025 will not be considered. The FaSS panel will meet in September to assess all eligible applications for projects with total costs of £150,000 or more that were submitted before the 21 July 2025 deadline.

All funded projects must be completed by 31 March 2026. All applicants will be notified directly, once all projects have been considered.

Further information

For more information about FaSS, please visit: www.gov.uk/guidance/fisheries-and-seafood-scheme