If your business or organization works in fisheries or aquaculture, developing new species can be expensive and risky. The Multi-Species Research and Development Fund helps reduce that risk by sharing the cost of early-stage research and development. This program is run by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and is currently open.
The fund is designed to support innovation beyond traditional species. It focuses on research, trials, and technical development that can strengthen the province’s seafood and aquaculture sector.
The Multi-Species Research and Development Fund provides repayable funding to support research and development projects related to new or emerging aquatic species.
Key program details:
The main goal is to help organizations test if their ideas are possible. You can also use the funding to improve production methods. The fund helps reduce technical barriers. All activities must happen before your project moves into full commercial operations.
To qualify for the Multi-Species Research and Development Fund, your organization must meet several criteria:
Indigenous organizations are specifically named as eligible applicants. This makes the program especially useful for community-led fisheries and aquaculture projects in the province.
The fund supports research and development activities tied to multi-species aquaculture and fisheries innovation. Priority is given to projects that explore or advance new species.
Eligible activities may include:
Projects must be clearly defined and have a set timeline. The work must focus on research and development, not commercial production.
Applications are reviewed through a provincial assessment process managed by the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture. While timelines can vary, applicants should expect a review that happens in several steps. The assessment looks at:
Before applying, make sure your budget shows provincial funding will cover no more than 80% of total eligible costs. Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you check if your organization and project fit this program or other Newfoundland and Labrador funds.
Assuming the funding is non-repayable
This program provides repayable contributions. Your cash flow plan should include future repayment based on provincial terms.
Applying with a commercial-scale project
The fund supports research and development, not full production or expansion.
Missing proof of organizational capacity
You must show you can deliver the project, either in-house or with qualified partners.
Exceeding the 80% funding cap
Requests above the maximum cost-share limit are likely to be rejected.
Q: How much funding can I receive from the Multi-Species Research and Development Fund?
You can receive up to $50,000, covering no more than 80% of eligible project costs. The funding is repayable under Newfoundland and Labrador provincial terms.
Q: Is the Multi-Species Research and Development Fund repayable?
Yes. The contribution must be repaid according to conditions set by the provincial government.
Q: Do Indigenous organizations qualify for this fund?
Yes. Indigenous groups are specifically listed as eligible applicants under the program.
Q: What types of species-focused projects are eligible?
Projects focused on research and development of new or emerging aquatic species, including culture plants and production methods, are prioritized.
Q: How long does the application review take?
Timelines vary, but applicants should plan for a multi-stage provincial review rather than a quick approval.
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