Scotland’s Sustainable Aquaculture Innovation Cluster (SAIC) has opened an Expression of Interest (EOI) call for collaborative research, development, and innovation projects across Scottish aquaculture. The window runs from May 22 to June 26.
The call targets projects aligned with SAIC’s strategic priorities: finfish health and welfare, shellfish, seaweed and other species, environmental sustainability, production capacity, climate resilience, and net-zero transition. It is designed to build a pipeline of proposals ahead of a full funding call in autumn 2026.
For the first time, both higher education institutions and small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are eligible for SAIC funding. Universities and research institutes may receive up to 80% of full economic costs; SMEs may receive up to 50% of eligible project costs. Match funding is mandatory for all applicants.
Projects must involve at least two partners and operate at Technology Readiness Level 4 or above. An academic partner is not required, provided the consortium can demonstrate access to the necessary technical or scientific expertise.
EOIs must clearly describe the challenge, proposed innovation, collaborative approach, anticipated outputs and impacts, and rationale for SAIC support. Eligible costs — including staff time, equipment, subcontracted expertise, and trials — will be assessed at the full application stage.
The autumn full funding call will be the next key moment to watch. Organisations considering an application can access the EOI form and further details on the SAIC website.