Fisheries and Seafood Scheme support expanded to allow for grant contributions towards new engines and gearboxes on vessels

Fishermen across England will benefit from an expanded Fisheries and Seafood Scheme (FaSS), with grant support now available for engine and gearbox upgrades.

The funding will help vessels modernise and become more efficient, which will help reduce engine emissions. Eligible projects will be able to apply for support through the scheme’s standard application process. The scheme, administered by the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, is funded from the £132 million committed to the Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund over the next five years. 

From today, fishermen can apply for grant contributions through the scheme towards new engines and gearboxes for their vessels. The rates of support available are: 

65% contribution for the Small Scale Coastal Fleet (SSCF) installing new petrol or diesel engines 

50% contribution for all other vessels installing new petrol or diesel engines 

90% contribution for electric or hybrid engines, regardless of vessel or business size 

These rates align with previous support provided through the UK Seafood Fund for engines, and are more generous for the Small Scale Coastal Fleet, reflecting the government’s continued commitment to supporting smaller operators. By encouraging the uptake of lower-carbon technologies where they are appropriate and viable for fishing businesses, these changes will help improve efficiency and reduce emissions from the fishing sector, supporting long-term growth and sustainability. 

Since FaSS reopened on 13 April 2026, it has received a high level of interest from industry, with over £5 million of investment already approved for projects to date. The MMO continues to offer support for first-time applicants to help them through the application process. 

The scheme is open to anyone involved in fishing, aquaculture, seafood processing, marine conservation or related environmental work. It can support a wide range of activities, including: