Federal, Provincial Governments Invest $36.8M In Nova Scotia Fisheries

DARTMOUTH — Through the Atlantic Fisheries Fund (AFF), the federal government and the provincial government of Nova Scotia announced funding for 142 projects in the province’s fishing and seafood sector.

“Through the Atlantic Fisheries Fund, strategic investments in new technologies, automation, and science have assisted the seafood industry in increasing efficiencies, helping address labour constraints, access new markets, and maximize the economic benefits of the industry. Partnerships with a number of industry associations have allowed the fund to reach all regions and sectors of the industry,” said Kent Smith, minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Province of Nova Scotia.

The funding—a total contribution of $36,838,064—will help harvesters and processors modernize equipment and improve quality, productivity, and sustainability in the Nova Scotia fish and seafood sector. In particular, this funding will support new infrastructure, innovation and scientific partnerships in:

• Harvesting: 72 projects will procure new equipment and develop technologies to improve onboard handling techniques, data collection and bait performance.
• Processing: 43 projects advance processing technologies and product quality to improve competitiveness and add value to the industry.
• Aquaculture: 25 projects enable the adoption of new technology and processes to support the sustainable development of oysters and finfish.

The funding also includes support for two third-party delivery projects, one with the Nova Scotia Seafood Alliance ($6.3M) and the other with Perennia Food and Agriculture Corporation (just under $4.2M). Both projects are aimed at increasing productivity, competitiveness, quality and sustainability of the fish and seafood sector in Nova Scotia through innovation and infrastructure-related projects.

The contribution is from the $400 million Atlantic Fisheries Fund (AFF), funded by the federal and provincial governments.

The Atlantic Fisheries Fund will continue to invest in projects until March 31, 2026, at which time all projects receiving funding must be completed.