Upgrading docks, plants, or equipment can be expensive. For many fisheries and seafood businesses in Atlantic Canada, the Atlantic Fisheries Fund — Infrastructure Stream helps cover the cost of major capital projects. The program is run by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and aims to boost productivity, innovation, and economic benefits in the region.
This guide explains who can apply, what projects are eligible, and how to complete the application process.
The Atlantic Fisheries Fund (AFF) is a federal program that supports innovation, science partnerships, and infrastructure for the fish and seafood sector. The Infrastructure Stream focuses on large, capital projects that improve how seafood is harvested, processed, or farmed in Atlantic Canada.
Projects must show clear benefits to the Atlantic region, such as better efficiency, higher quality, or stronger competitiveness.
To apply for the Atlantic Fisheries Fund — Infrastructure Stream, you must meet all of these conditions:
Eligible applicants often include:
The Infrastructure Stream supports projects that improve capacity, productivity, or innovation across the seafood value chain.
Common eligible project types include:
Training costs are eligible only if they are directly tied to the new infrastructure.
The Atlantic Fisheries Fund does not set a fixed maximum for Infrastructure Stream funding. The amount you get depends on:
For larger infrastructure projects, funding can be significant and is usually provided as a non-repayable contribution. Your project budget and the reasons you provide are very important in the final decision.
Because funding levels differ, tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you compare the Atlantic Fisheries Fund with other programs in your province.
Before contacting DFO, you should prepare:
Applications are handled through regional AFF representatives. You usually start with a discussion before sending in formal documents.
You will need to provide:
DFO reviews applications based on:
Approval timelines depend on how complex your project is.
No regional impact Projects that only help one business, with no wider industry benefit, are often declined.
Unrelated training costs Training must be tied directly to new infrastructure or technology.
Weak project budgets Missing quotes, unclear costs, or unrealistic timelines can delay or stop approval.
Waiting too long to contact DFO Early talks help you know if your project is a good fit before you spend time on a full application.
Q: Is the Atlantic Fisheries Fund Infrastructure Stream repayable?
No. Infrastructure Stream funding is usually a non-repayable contribution.
Q: Which provinces are eligible?
Only Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island qualify.
Q: Can small businesses apply?
Yes, as long as they are in an eligible sector and can show real regional economic benefits.
Q: Are Atlantic Fisheries Fund grants taxable?
In most cases, yes. Grant funding is usually taxable income. Check with your accountant to see how it applies to your business.
Q: Can I combine AFF funding with other grants?
Often yes, but stacking rules apply. You must list all other government funding in your application.
The Atlantic Fisheries Fund — Infrastructure Stream can support major upgrades that would be hard to afford otherwise. Focus on showing strong regional impact and a solid project plan.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant programs across Canada. Use it to compare programs and find the best match for your business, location, and project goals before you apply.
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