The Sustainable Aquaculture Innovation Centre (SAIC) has called for proposals for projects focused on improving Scotland’s aquaculture sector. 

The SAIC aims to transform Scottish aquaculture by unlocking sustainable growth through innovation excellence. SAIC will provide as much as 50% of the overall project costs. With this in mind, they are searching for projects which will have long-term commercial impacts and opportunities for sustainable growth.

The call outlines a desire for innovations for continued improvement in fish biology, regeneration, and environmental practices. These projects could include the integration of multiple species, such as multi trophic aquaculture.

Research teams submitting proposals must include an industry partner working collaboratively with at least one Scottish higher education institution. Teams have until December 8th to submit an expression of interest and must be ready for projects to begin by 1 June 2022, with collaboration agreements in place four weeks after funding has been awarded.

The funding will go to projects which, at their core, are innovative in their approach or lead to innovative solutions that will help support the Scottish aquaculture sector and associated supply chain. They will also evaluate how well the proposal aligned with their priority innovation areas:

  • supporting finfish health and welfare, 
  • unlocking additional capacity in the sector,
  • focus on shellfish and other non-finfish species.

Heather Jones, CEO of SAIC, said: “SAIC is committed to supporting innovation that enhances fish wellbeing, supports rural communities, and contributes to Scotland’s economy and we hope to see a range of ideas from across the sector submitted as proposals for funding.”

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