Funding for Inland Fisheries and Aquaculture
The State of Lower Saxony promotes the sustainable development of inland fisheries and aquaculture with funds from the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) and its own state funds. The aim is to support economically, socially, and ecologically viable, as well as competitive and knowledge-based activities in these sectors. This includes a wide range of investments, research and development measures, and qualification projects that contribute to strengthening resilience to climate change and protecting aquatic biodiversity.
Who is Funded
This funding program targets a wide range of stakeholders in inland fisheries and aquaculture in Lower Saxony. It supports small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), natural persons, fishing cooperatives, recognized fishing associations, as well as scientific and public institutions that wish to contribute to the sustainable development and strengthening of these sectors.
What is Funded
The funding program supports a variety of measures in inland fisheries and aquaculture, from investments in production and infrastructure to education and diversification projects, as well as research and development projects. Measures for environmental protection and animal health improvement are also eligible for funding, while certain operating expenses and real estate acquisition are excluded.
Type and Scope of Funding
Funding is provided as a non-repayable grant and varies in amount depending on the applicant type, project, and investment volume. It consists of EMFAF and state funds and is tied to specific thresholds.
Conditions and Requirements
Funding is subject to numerous conditions, including compliance with European and national guidelines, providing collateral for high subsidies, and specific requirements for the economic viability and qualification of applicants. Special regulations apply to contract awards.
Application Process
The application process is managed through the Lower Saxony State Office for Consumer Protection and Food Safety (LAVES) and requires detailed documentation, including a project description, financing plans, and, if applicable, economic viability calculations. Projects are selected based on defined criteria and a minimum score, with disbursement of funds occurring only after proof of incurred expenses.
Legal Basis
The funding for inland fisheries and aquaculture in Lower Saxony is based on a specific state directive, which is legitimized and shaped by comprehensive European regulations and further national laws. These legal foundations ensure that the program is in line with the objectives and requirements of the European Union in the field of fisheries and aquaculture and is implemented transparently.
Similar Programs
Funding Overview
Funding Status:
Open
Maximum Amount:
Depending on the type and size of the applicant, as well as the type of measure, between 10% and 100%. Maximum 75,000 € for diversification in fisheries. Maximum 3,000,000 € for investments in aquaculture facilities.
Open Until:
31.12.2029
Award Channel:
Demand Driven Scheme
Region:
Lower Saxony (Germany)
Sectors:
Agriculture and Agribusiness
Beneficiaries:
Inland Fisheries and Aquaculture
Application Type:
Optional Consortium
Funding Stages:
Basic Research, Applied Research, Experimental Development, Prototyping, Product Development, Process Optimization, Market Introduction, Implementation, Infrastructure, Capacity Building, Awareness Campaigns, Monitoring
Funding Provider
Program Level:
Regional
Funding Body:
Lower Saxony Ministry for Food, Agriculture, and Consumer Protection
Managed By:
Lower Saxony State Office for Consumer Protection and Food Safety
Additional Partners:
Chamber of Agriculture Lower Saxony (LWK)