Announced on October 15, 2026, the renewed Atlantic Fisheries Fund (AFF) will provide more than $300 million over five years for strategic investments in Atlantic Canada’s fish and seafood sector.
Aquaculture producers, seafood processors, feed manufacturers and research organizations can explore funding for projects that improve productivity, advance innovation and support market growth.
The renewed fund is organized around four funding pillars.
1. Innovation
This pillar supports research and development that improves productivity and sustainability in the fish and seafood sector. Eligible activities may include developing new products or technologies, running pilot projects, testing innovations and helping bring them to market.
For aquaculture businesses, potential projects could include new production methods, feed innovations or approaches to improving animal health and production performance.
2. Infrastructure
This pillar supports the adoption or adaptation of technologies, processes and equipment that improve productivity and sustainability. Training related to adopting new technologies may also be eligible.
Potential projects include equipment upgrades, automation and process improvements that help businesses operate more efficiently and sustainably.
3. Science Partnerships
This pillar supports industry-based research partnerships with academic institutions and other organizations. Focus areas include the impacts of changing ocean conditions and the development of sustainable harvesting technologies.
These partnerships may suit businesses seeking research expertise to investigate industry challenges and build evidence for future decisions.
4. Market Development and Diversification
New to the renewed program, this pillar aims to help Atlantic Canada’s seafood sector reach new markets and become more resilient to global trade disruptions.
Eligible activities may include market research, export-focused advertising, industry promotion, market-specific packaging and branding, certifications, and research into regulatory requirements for market access. Certain trade missions and marketing management activities may also qualify.
Companies looking to expand internationally can explore whether their market development activities qualify for support.
Who can apply?
Eligible applicants include commercial enterprises and qualifying non-commercial organizations involved in fisheries, aquaculture, seafood processing or related research and development. They must operate in a participating Atlantic province or represent a national or regional fish and seafood sector interest.
Eligible organizations may include incorporated businesses, partnerships, cooperatives, industry associations, universities and research institutions.
Eligibility depends on the applicant, the proposed project and the program’s assessment criteria. Applicants should confirm the requirements before committing to an investment.
How to get started
The renewed AFF began accepting applications on October 15, 2026. To get started, review the program guidelines, confirm your eligibility and contact the program team to discuss your proposed project.
Before making financial commitments, clarify eligible costs, funding limits, contribution requirements and approval timelines. Funding is not guaranteed, and project-specific conditions apply.
Learn more and explore application requirements: Atlantic Fisheries Fund — Government of Canada
Considering an Atlantic Fisheries Fund project? Contact Onda to discuss your research needs and how we can help develop and evaluate your proposed innovation.