£1 million of Welsh Government funding is being made available to boost the marine, fisheries and aquaculture industry in Wales, Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths has announced.

This support comes from the Welsh Marine and Fisheries Scheme, the application window for which opened on February 29. With grants ranging from £500 minimum to £100,000 maximum, the funding can be for a wide range of activities from 11 separate categories.

To apply for funding, applications must be submitted by 10^th May with the intention to sustainably grow businesses and help local coastal communities prosper. The funding will be assisting the industry address key areas such as infrastructure, well being, workforce and efficiency facilitating long term industry growth and continuation.

Significant impact

Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths said

“I am pleased to be able to make £1 million available to support our marine, fisheries and aquaculture industry.

The Welsh Marine and Fisheries Scheme offers funding for a broad range of actions which can be vital in helping businesses to take advantage of opportunities and grow.

I encourage everyone with an interest to visit the Welsh Government’s website to learn more about the scheme and apply by the closing date of 10 May.”

The funding could be used for increasing the potential of aquaculture sites, purchasing new equipment on vessels aimed at reducing emissions and increasing energy efficiency, and professional advice for businesses ranging from marine environment sustainability to business and marketing strategies. Applicants could also apply for funding for projects to carry out research on health safety and wellbeing needs for the sector.

Details of the scheme, including guidance, can be found on the Welsh Government’s website.