Quebec Fisheries Fund — Science partnerships

For fisheries and seafood organizations in Quebec looking to collaborate on applied research, the Quebec Fisheries Fund — Science Partnerships stream focuses on turning science into practical, on-the-water improvements. This funding is geared toward projects that bring industry together with universities or research institutions to better understand ecosystem changes, improve sustainability, and support innovation across commercial fisheries, processing, and aquaculture. Administered by Fisheries and Oceans Canada, the program is designed to strengthen the long-term competitiveness and resilience of Quebec’s fish and seafood sector.

Support is provided as non-repayable funding that can reach up to about $500,000 per project, helping offset the costs of research activities, technology development, and knowledge transfer. Projects often focus on improving data around environmental impacts on fisheries, testing or adopting more sustainable harvesting technologies, or advancing new approaches that benefit both industry and the broader marine ecosystem. The emphasis is on partnerships that generate clear economic and environmental benefits for Quebec, rather than standalone research with limited commercial application.

While applications are generally accepted on an ongoing basis, demand for this fund is currently high and new submissions may depend on future funding availability. For businesses, industry groups, and research partners considering a collaborative science project, understanding the program’s priorities and timing is key, and exploring the full details can help determine whether this opportunity is the right strategic fit.