European Maritime and Fisheries Fund: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how fishers can access grants to modernize gear and improve engine efficiency through this maritime support scheme.
The European Maritime and Fisheries Fund is a support mechanism designed to provide financial assistance to those working in the maritime and fishing sectors. This fund focuses on helping operators modernize their equipment and adapt to changing environmental needs.
Who it's for
This scheme is specifically intended for fishers looking to upgrade their professional tools and vessel capabilities. It is aimed at individuals who want to invest in more selective gear to reduce unwanted catch or those looking to improve the efficiency of their vessel engines to modernize their operations.
What you get
If your project is approved, you can receive grants to help offset the high costs of industrial upgrades. These grants are designed to cover a large portion of your modernization costs, typically providing between 50% and 80% of the total expense required for the investment.
What it costs you
While the financial grant covers a large part of the investment, there is a significant administrative cost in terms of your time. You will need to manage extensive paperwork and provide a thorough justification for your project to prove that the investment is necessary and beneficial.
The catch to know
It is important to understand that this is a competitive funding process, meaning not every application will be successful. Furthermore, your proposed projects must meet very strict environmental criteria to ensure they align with broader maritime goals.
How to apply
- Review your planned investments to ensure they focus on selective gear or engine efficiency.
- Verify that your equipment choices meet the strict environmental criteria required by the scheme.
- Prepare your project justification and complete the necessary extensive paperwork.
- Submit your full application through the official portal.