Funding Opportunities

Since 1998, NOAA has funded research to boost the production of commercially and recreationally valuable marine shellfish and finfish species in the U.S. through the National Marine Aquaculture Initiative competitive grants program. These projects have responded to key scientific, engineering, environmental, and economic questions for aquaculture. [NOAA Aquaculture Program photo]

As a Federal agency under the U.S. Department of Commerce, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) administers a variety of competitive grant programs and other financial assistance programs targeted to the development of sustainable aquaculture in the United States. Areas of interest include aquaculture research, technology development, and the commercial development of the domestic aquaculture industry. The programs below outline NOAA-managed funding opportunities for aquaculture and funding opportunities available through other agencies or venues.

NOAA Competitive Grants Programs for Aquaculture

  • The National Marine Aquaculture Initiative - A national competitive grant program coordinated by NOAA, the National Marine Aquaculture Initiative encourages demonstration projects and research targeted to the development of sustainable marine aquaculture in the United States. The competition is designed to foster dynamic partnerships that channel resources toward the development of sustainable aquaculture technologies. Projects often involve partnerships among commercial companies, research institutions, universities, state governments, and coastal communities.

  • Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program - NOAA's SBIR Program supports creative advanced research in scientific and engineering areas, including aquaculture, and encourages the commercial application of Government-funded research. SBIR awards lead to major breakthroughs, innovative technologies, and next-generation products and processes.

  • Saltonstall-Kennedy Grant Program - Since 1990 the Saltonstall-Kennedy Grant Program has included aquaculture as a priority to fund projects that encourage the development of environmentally and economically sound aquacultures, relieve fishing pressure, and improve market availability. In recent years, however, this competitive grant program has been canceled because of insufficient funding. Clicking on the link above will take you to a bibliography of information on project reports or products prepared under the Saltonstall-Kennedy Grant Program since 1990.

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NOAA Financial Assistance Programs

  • NOAA Fisheries Finance Program - NOAA Fisheries Financial Services Division manages a national financial assistance program in the form of direct loans, a tax-deferred capital construction fund, and vessel and gear loss and damage. Aquaculture businesses are eligible for loans for capital construction and certain other investment costs. Clicking on the link above will take you to a description of each NOAA Fisheries financial assistance program.

Programs Offered Through Other Federal Agencies

Other Links

For information about all federal funding opportunities

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