If you run a fish or seafood business in Atlantic Canada, the Atlantic Fisheries Fund (AFF) can be one of the largest sources of non-repayable funding you may ever access. The challenge is choosing the right stream. Each stream supports very different activities. Applying to the wrong stream is a common reason for rejection. The Atlantic Fisheries Fund is delivered by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO). The program is run in partnership with the four Atlantic provinces.
The Atlantic Fisheries Fund has three main streams: Innovation, Infrastructure, and Science Partnerships. All projects must benefit the Atlantic fish and seafood sector. Projects must take place in Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, or Prince Edward Island.
The Innovation stream is for projects that test, adapt, or adopt new ideas in the seafood sector. This stream is a good fit if your project focuses on:
Eligible applicants include:
Projects must show clear benefits to the Atlantic region and the broader fish and seafood sector.
Tip: If your project involves risk, experimentation, or first-time adoption of a technology, it likely belongs in the Innovation stream.
The Infrastructure stream supports physical assets and large-scale upgrades that strengthen the seafood supply chain. This stream is usually the right choice if you need funding for:
Key eligibility rules:
Infrastructure funding is generally non-repayable, though contribution levels vary by project size and impact.
Tip: If most of your budget is equipment or construction-related, Infrastructure is usually the correct stream.
The Science Partnerships stream funds projects that improve scientific knowledge and decision-making in fisheries and aquaculture. This stream supports:
Eligible applicants often include:
Unlike the other streams, this one requires collaboration. Solo business projects rarely qualify.
Tip: If your project produces data, research, or science-based tools rather than commercial output, Science Partnerships is likely the best fit.
If you’re unsure, tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter programs by province, industry, and project type in seconds.
Choosing a stream based on funding size, not project fit
Reviewers assess alignment first. A strong project in the wrong stream will still be rejected.
Submitting an infrastructure-heavy project under Innovation
Large equipment purchases usually belong in the Infrastructure stream, even if the technology is new.
Applying alone to Science Partnerships
This stream expects collaboration. Lack of partners is a frequent deal-breaker.
Ignoring regional economic benefits
Projects must clearly benefit Atlantic Canada, not just your individual business.
Q: Who can apply to the Atlantic Fisheries Fund?
Applicants must be located in Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, or Prince Edward Island. They must be active in or support the fish and seafood sector.
Q: Is Atlantic Fisheries Fund funding repayable?
Most AFF contributions, especially under the Infrastructure stream, are non-repayable. Terms depend on project type and contribution agreement.
Q: Can training costs be included?
Yes. Training related to new equipment or technologies is typically an eligible expense under Infrastructure and Innovation streams.
Q: How much funding can I receive?
Funding amounts vary widely based on project scope, costs, and expected impact. Large infrastructure projects can receive substantial contributions.
Q: Are Atlantic Fisheries Fund grants taxable?
Grant funding is generally considered taxable income. You should confirm treatment with your accountant.
Choosing the right Atlantic Fisheries Fund stream can save months of effort and improve your approval odds. Start by clearly defining whether your project is about innovation, infrastructure, or science. From there, GrantHub can help you identify complementary programs and deadlines across Atlantic Canada, so you don’t miss funding opportunities that fit your business.
See also:
GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant programs across Canada, including fisheries and aquaculture funding. Check which ones match your business profile.
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