Science partnership funding provides fisheries businesses with the chance to work directly with researchers to solve real, on-the-water problems. In Canada, these programs aim to improve sustainability, productivity, and decision-making by sharing the cost of applied science. This article highlights Quebec’s approach through the Quebec Fisheries Fund – Science Partnerships. Other provinces offer similar funding streams, each designed to fit local fisheries needs.
This type of funding matters if your business needs data, trials, or scientific validation to move forward, but cannot cover the full cost alone.
Science partnership funding provides support for collaborative projects between industry and science experts. The focus is on applied science that leads to useful outcomes for fisheries and aquaculture, not just academic research.
In Quebec, science partnership projects are funded through the Quebec Fisheries Fund – Science Partnerships stream. Other regions, such as the Atlantic provinces and British Columbia, have their own programs with different criteria.
According to Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), science partnership funding under the Quebec Fisheries Fund aims to:
The Quebec Fisheries Fund – Science Partnerships is part of a larger federal investment in regional fisheries funding. It is similar in structure to the Atlantic Fisheries Fund but tailored to Quebec’s sector.
Eligible applicants usually include:
Projects must involve a science partner, such as:
Funded science partnership projects often focus on:
The science partner leads or co-leads the research work, while the industry partner makes sure the project addresses real operational needs.
Science partnership funding is generally provided as:
The exact amount of funding depends on the project’s scope and budget. Each project has its own contribution rates and maximum funding levels. If you want to compare programs by province or project type, GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help filter options quickly.
Science partnership funding follows a more structured process than many general business grants.
Project design
You define a clear problem that needs scientific input, such as stock uncertainty or gear impacts.
Partner matching
You secure a qualified science partner before applying. Applications without a confirmed partner are rarely accepted.
Application submission
The proposal outlines objectives, methods, roles, timelines, and budget, including cost-sharing.
Technical review
DFO assesses scientific merit, feasibility, and industry relevance.
Funding agreement and reporting
Approved projects must meet reporting and data-sharing requirements during and after the project.
Applying without a science partner
The program is built around collaboration. Informal or unconfirmed partnerships weaken applications.
Proposing academic research with no industry outcome
Projects must lead to practical benefits for fisheries operations or management.
Underestimating reporting requirements
Science partnership funding involves progress reports, financial tracking, and final results submission.
Assuming funding covers 100% of costs
Most projects require applicant contributions, either cash or in-kind.
Q: Is science partnership funding repayable?
No. Funding under the Quebec Fisheries Fund – Science Partnerships is generally provided as non-repayable contributions.
Q: Do small fishing businesses qualify, or only large organizations?
Small and mid-sized fisheries businesses can qualify, as long as the project is well-defined and includes a qualified science partner.
Q: Can Indigenous organizations apply directly?
Yes. Indigenous organizations involved in fisheries and aquaculture are typically eligible applicants.
Q: How long does approval usually take?
Timelines vary, but science partnership projects often take several months due to technical review requirements.
Q: Can science partnership funding be stacked with other grants?
In many cases, yes. However, total government assistance limits apply and must be disclosed in your application.
GrantHub maintains a database of active grant programs across Canada. This can help you check which ones fit your business profile before you apply.
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