Marine Fund Scotland

Total Value of Fund:

The Marine Fund Scotland will make £14 million available in the 2025–26 funding round.

Amount that can be applied for:

Varies based on project type, individual grants have previously ranged from under £1,000 up to approximately £1.7 million in prior rounds. 

Percentage that can be applied for

• Up to 30% of eligible costs for most business projects. 
• Up to 50% for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). 
• Up to 60% for organisations of fishers or collectives of fishers acting collectively. 
• Certain projects with high collective added value (e.g., widespread benefits or innovation) may be eligible for up to 100% funding, depending on evidence provided.

Who can apply

The fund is open to eligible individuals, businesses, organisations and communities engaged in activities related to Scotland’s marine sectors.

Aims of the fund

Marine Fund Scotland is intended to support an innovative and sustainable marine economy, support coastal communities, and help Scotland reach net-zero emissions and deliver on the Blue Economy Vision, which targets ecosystem health, social inclusion and economic prosperity by 2045.

Timing

The 2025-26 fund opened for applications on 18 June 2025 and closed on 22 July 2025 at 23:59. 

Examples of successful projects

Previous rounds have funded a variety of initiatives, including:
• Modernising seafood processing facilities to reduce energy consumption and improve efficiency. 
• Establishing Scotland’s first facility to recycle mixed materials from fishing and aquaculture nets and marine litter prevention work. 
• Supporting young fishers in purchasing their first fishing vessels. 
• Marine research and innovation projects aimed at protecting iconic wild salmon. 
 

Contact info

• Email: MFS@gov.scot 
• Website:  https://www.gov.scot/publications/marine-fund-scotland-2025-26-general-guidance-notes-v1-2025/