The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) has opened applications for the Ocean Stewardship Fund 2025, a global grant initiative supporting fisheries and research projects that promote sustainability in marine ecosystems. Through this fund, the MSC aims to protect ocean life and ensure that future generations can continue to benefit from healthy seafood supplies.
Since 2020, the Ocean Stewardship Fund has invested over $8.8 million into nearly 200 fisheries and sustainability projects worldwide. This initiative reflects MSC’s mission to recognize and reward sustainable fishing practices while fostering collaboration between fisheries, scientists, and policymakers.
About the MSC Ocean Stewardship Fund
The MSC Ocean Stewardship Fund dedicates 5% of the organization’s annual royalties from certified product sales to support fisheries advancing toward sustainability. Combined with external donations, the fund provides financial assistance across multiple grant categories, including the Transition Assistance Fund, Science and Research Fund, and Recertification Assistance Fund.
Each fund is designed to address different needs within the marine sustainability sector—from supporting fisheries in the certification process to advancing research and maintaining long-term compliance with MSC standards.
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Transition Assistance Fund (TAF)
The Transition Assistance Fund provides up to £50,000 over two years to fisheries that are verified participants in the MSC Improvement Program.
Eligible fisheries can use this funding to:
- Implement improvement actions from their Action Plan.
- Hire program managers or technical consultants.
- Cover essential assets, salaries, and traceability improvements.
Application Timeline:
- Opens: 22 September 2025
- Closes: 1 December 2025
Applications are assessed based on feasibility, expertise, and impact, with preference given to fisheries in developing economies or those applying for their first grant.
Science and Research Fund
The Science and Research Fund supports projects helping MSC-certified fisheries adopt best practices and meet the MSC Fisheries Standard.
For 2025, proposals are invited under two main themes:
- At-Sea Monitoring: Developing monitoring systems that improve data collection and compliance.
- Harvest Strategies/Control Rules: Researching to improve harvest management and ensure sustainable fishing limits.
Grants under this category can provide up to £50,000 over 12–24 months, depending on project scope.
Key Dates:
- Expressions of Interest Deadline: 10 November 2025
- Application Deadline: 1 December 2025
- Winners Announced: March 2026
Recertification Assistance Fund
This fund helps long-standing MSC-certified fisheries cover up to 75% of recertification costs (up to £30,000).
It supports fisheries maintaining their sustainable status through continued assessments by accredited bodies. Applications are accepted year-round but reviewed annually after 15 October.
Eligibility & How to Apply
Applicants must be part of the MSC Improvement Program or hold an active MSC certification, depending on the fund.
Applications can be submitted via the MSC Grants Portal, with guidance and templates available on the MSC website.
Applicants can contact the MSC representative to begin the application process.
The MSC Ocean Stewardship Fund 2025 offers a unique opportunity for fisheries, researchers, and organizations dedicated to ocean conservation. By investing in sustainability, the fund continues to strengthen global efforts toward responsible fishing and a thriving marine future.
For more information, visit the MSC Ocean Stewardship Fund.
