Marine Fund Scotland 2026/27 – Now Open
19 March 2026 • Sarah Medcraf
Mairi Gougeon, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform & Islands, has announced the launch of Marine Fund Scotland (MFS) 2026/27.
Guidance and full details:
- General Guidance Notes: https://www.gov.scot/publications/marine-fund-scotland-2026-27-general-guidance-notes/
- Marine & Fisheries Grants: https://www.gov.scot/policies/marine-and-fisheries-grants/
Who can apply? There’s no set list of eligible sectors or project types to keep the fund flexible and open to innovative ideas. Projects must:
- Fall within Scottish Ministers’ grant‑funding powers under the Fisheries Act 2020
- Meet the eligibility criteria outlined in the guidance
- Clearly contribute to the outcomes of MFS 2026/27
Applications are particularly encouraged where projects address market failures or deliver clear added value.
Key timing: • Funding is for projects delivering in the 2026–27 financial year • All work and associated spend must be completed and paid by 31 March 2027 • Application decisions aim to be issued within 12 weeks of the closing date (where all required information is submitted)
The fund’s closing date will be listed on the MFS webpage and can be confirmed via MFS@gov.scot.