Grant Programs
Several grant programs (federal, state, local and private) provide funds for seafood marketing and for fisheries more generally. These programs often require little, if any, out-of-pocket costs. However, applying for and accepting grants requires some (possibly substantial) time and effort. While applying for grants can be daunting, reviewing examples of funded project proposals and obtaining guidance from others who have gone through the process can be very helpful.
Funding Requirements
The types of expenses that a given grant will cover may be limited, for example some exclude salaries and/or capital costs. Most grants require reporting on the use of funds periodically during the project period as well as following project completion. Grant programs also have specific eligibility criteria and funding priorities that can vary from year to year.
Grant Topics
Despite these requirements, some fishermen have benefitted from grant programs for developing new products, starting/expanding markets, and developing educational materials for customers. These programs address a range of topics, including:
- Fisheries
- Seafood pro
- Agricultural and seafood marketing
- Food
- Health
- Environment
- Entrepreneur development
- Sustainability/green projects
Private foundations also may consider supporting seafood alternative marketing projects.
Examples
The following are examples of fishing-related grant programs and resources for exploring potential funding.
Federal funds administered through the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) for farm to school programs that improve access to local foods (including seafood) in eligible schools.
Farmers Market Promotion Program
Federal funds administered through the USDA for expanding direct-to-consumer marketing efforts of food producers (including commercial fishermen).
First Nations Development Institute
A Native American institute that provides financial (and technical) assistance to tribes and Native non-profit organizations to support development efforts.
Online directory of current federal funding opportunities for projects of all types.
Federal funds administered by the USDA for marketing opportunities that improve accessibility to US food products, with funds available only to enterprises that work as intermediaries between producers and consumers.