Research and Development

Federal investments in aquaculture research and development play a critical role in the seafood industry by advancing sustainability, innovation, and market opportunities.

Programs

USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) 

Small Business Innovation Research and Technology Transfer Programs 
These competitively awarded grants support high quality research on important scientific problems and opportunities in agriculture that could lead to significant public benefits. Read more on the grant topic areas Aquaculture (8.7) and Food Science and Nutrition (8.5).
 

Aquaculture Programs (Regional Aquaculture Centers and Special Research Grants for Aquaculture) 
USDA administers five Regional Aquaculture Centers that support research, development, and education to enhance U.S. aquaculture production. Special Research Grants for Aquaculture support the development of a sustainable aquaculture industry and science-based innovations to address industry constraints.
 

Agriculture and Food Research Initiative 
This funding portfolio includes both single- and multi-function research, education, and extension grants that address key problems of national, regional, and multi-state importance. AFRI-funded projects sustain all components of agriculture, including aquaculture. Each grant program has its own unique set of requirements, the details of which are available within specific requests for applications.

USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) 

USDA ARS National Program for Aquaculture 
This program seeks to conduct research and deliver technologies that improve domestic aquaculture production efficiency and product quality while minimizing impacts on natural resources.

USDA Rural Development (RD) 

Rural Business-Cooperative Services
This USDA RD agency offers financial assistance, technical support, and resources to help rural businesses expand, become more competitive, and promote community development. It aims to strengthen rural America's economic foundation by increasing access to capital, improving infrastructure, and encouraging entrepreneurship.
 

Agriculture Innovation Center Program
This program awards grants to eligible Agriculture Innovation Centers that help ag producers develop and market value-added agricultural products.
 

Value Added Producer Grant 
These grants help agricultural producers generate new products, create or expand marketing opportunities, and increase producer income.
 

Rural Energy for America Program
This program provides guaranteed loan financing and grant funding to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems or to make energy efficiency improvements. Among other uses, funds may be used for renewable energy systems, such as ocean (tidal, current, thermal) generation.