Aquaculture Collaborative Research and Development Program
Highlights
This program is designed for aquaculture producers like you. It offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) on research projects that can significantly benefit your business. By participating, you can improve the environmental sustainability of your operations and enhance fish health management practices.
Why Apply?
- Collaborative Research: Work directly with DFO researchers to address critical issues in aquaculture.
- Funding Support: Receive joint funding for your proposed projects, reducing your financial burden.
- Technology Transfer: Gain access to cutting-edge technology and knowledge that can improve your business operations.
What's in It for You?
- Improved Fish Health: Research aimed at better understanding and managing pathogens and diseases.
- Environmental Sustainability: Projects focused on minimizing the environmental impact of your operations.
- Scientific Capacity: Enhance your business's research capabilities and stay ahead in the industry.
The program is designed to be accessible, with a straightforward application process and a minimum industry contribution requirement. By participating, you can ensure your business remains competitive and sustainable in the long term.
Financing Details
Type of Financing: Grant
Repayment Terms:
- No repayment required. This is a non-repayable grant.
Eligible Expenses:
- Wages and salaries of project-specific personnel.
- Equipment directly related to the project.
- Laboratory and field supplies.
- Travel costs directly related to the project goals.
- Other necessary expenses agreed upon for project success.
Use of Funds:
- Funds cannot be used for projects related to improving fish production solely for economic objectives.
- Projects on transgenic aquatic organisms are not supported.
Fees:
- No fees are associated with this grant program.
Qualifications
- Must be an aquaculture producer operating within Canada.
- Must be directly involved in producing marine aquatic species for pre-commercial or commercial purposes.
- Must have ownership of the product or an aquaculture license or lease to culture the product.
- Must be undertaking commercial or developmental production activities on existing or new aquaculture species.
- Aquaculture companies or associations involved with sea ranching mariculture operations are eligible.
Industry producer associations or consortia of producers are eligible to apply.
Disqualifications:
- Projects on transgenic aquatic organisms.
- Projects related to improving fish production solely for economic objectives.
Description
This program offers your business a chance to partner with Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) to conduct important research. You can work with DFO researchers on projects that focus on improving fish health and environmental sustainability. These projects can take place at DFO facilities or your own.
Funding is shared between the program and your business. This means you only need to cover a portion of the costs. The minimum industry contribution is 30% of the requested amount, with at least 7.5% in cash and the rest as in-kind contributions.
The program aims to boost your business's scientific capacity and promote sustainable practices. This can help you manage fish health better and reduce environmental impacts. By participating, you gain access to cutting-edge research and technology, which can give you a competitive edge and support long-term growth.
Program Steps
Download the Application Form and Proposal Format: Visit the Fisheries and Oceans Canada website to download the standard Application Form and Proposal Format.
Prepare Necessary Documentation: Gather the following documents to support your application:
- Financial statements
- Business plan
- Details of intended research project
- Proof of industry contributions (cash and in-kind)
- Any other relevant documentation that demonstrates your project’s alignment with program objectives
Develop Your Research Proposal: Clearly outline your research project, ensuring it aligns with the program’s objectives and research priorities. Include:
- Project objectives
- Methodology
- Expected outcomes
- Budget breakdown
Collaborate with DFO Researchers: Engage with Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) researchers to refine your proposal and ensure it meets scientific and technical standards.
Submit Your Application: Complete the Application Form and Proposal Format, and submit them along with the required documentation to the appropriate contact at Fisheries and Oceans Canada.
Review Process: Your proposal will undergo a comprehensive review, including a scientific peer-review and evaluation by the ACRDP Technical Review Committee.
Respond to Feedback: If required, address any feedback or requests for additional information from the review committee.
Finalize Collaborative Agreement: Upon approval, work with Fisheries and Oceans Canada to finalize a formal agreement detailing project activities, deliverables, and funding arrangements.
Begin Project Implementation: Once the agreement is in place, start your research project according to the agreed-upon schedule and deliverables.
Provide Progress Reports: Submit annual progress reports and a final report upon project completion to Fisheries and Oceans Canada.