CINEA receives 42 project proposals for EMFAF funding calls on blue economy innovation and fisheries scientific advice
High Interest in Latest Maritime and Fisheries Fund Grants
The European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA) has received 42 project proposals for the latest European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) calls for proposals, reflecting strong engagement in blue economy innovation and fisheries science.
A total of 11 grants are expected to be awarded under the two recently closed funding calls, highlighting the high level of interest in these initiatives.
Funding for Smart Specialisation and Regenerative Ocean Farming
With a €5.7 million budget, the call for regional flagship projects supporting a sustainable blue economy in EU sea basins closed on 18 February 2025. This funding aims to support smart specialisation strategies and regenerative ocean farming innovations.
- Smart Specialisation & Innovation in the Blue Economy: CINEA received 16 proposals, covering key sectors such as aquaculture, fisheries, marine renewable energy, blue biotechnology, and tourism.
- Regenerative Ocean Farming: CINEA received 10 proposals, focusing on the farming of local seaweed species, integrated seaweed and shellfish cultivation, and the development of algae-based products.
Scientific Advice for Fisheries: Strengthening the Knowledge Base
A separate €2.6 million funding call focused on scientific advice for fisheries, aimed at enhancing the data and knowledge base to improve management decisions under the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).
- The call closed on 20 February 2025, with 16 proposals submitted for projects designed to strengthen scientific research in fisheries management.
Next Steps: Evaluation and Grant Allocations
CINEA will conduct a full eligibility and admissibility check, with the evaluation process set to begin in late February. Applicants can expect to receive updates on the outcomes by June 2025.
For ongoing updates, stakeholders are encouraged to follow CINEA’s official channels, including LinkedIn, X, and the EU’s website.
Background: EMFAF’s Role in EU Maritime Policy
The European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) plays a key role in implementing the EU’s Common Fisheries Policy and maritime strategy. With a €6.1 billion budget for 2021-2027, it focuses on:
- Sustainable fisheries and marine resource conservation
- Food security through competitive and sustainable aquaculture and markets
- Developing the blue economy and supporting coastal communities
- Strengthening international ocean governance
Under direct management, CINEA oversees funding aimed at policy development, procurement, and targeted grant allocations to advance sustainable maritime and fisheries initiatives across Europe.
Source