Introduction
General
This brochure explains the purpose of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Processing and Marketing Grant Scheme. It provides applicants with guidance on the terms of the scheme to enable them to prepare an application and explains the selection procedures. This grant scheme is competitive and not all eligible applications will receive assistance. It should be noted that these notes are for guidance only and do not represent a statement of the law.
You are strongly advised to read these notes and the application form carefully before taking any further action. If you are unsure of any point, or require further details, please contact the person named at 'How to Apply'.
Careful reading now can save time and effort which would otherwise be wasted preparing an application for a project ineligible for assistance.
Legislation
Processing and Marketing Grants are made under the terms of Council Regulation ( EC) 1263/1999 1, on the Financial Instrument for Fisheries Guidance ( FIFG); Council Regulation ( EC) 1260/1999 2, which lays down general provisions on the Structural Funds, Council Regulation 2792/1999 3, which lays down detailed rules and arrangements regarding Community structural assistance in the fisheries sector, and Council Regulation ( EC) 1685/2000 4 laying down detailed rules for the implementation of Council Regulation ( EC) 1260/1999 as regards eligibility of expenditure of operations co-financed by the Structural Funds.
Grant Rates, Project Costs
The maximum amount of assistance for Processing and Marketing allowed under FIFG is 15% of the total eligible costs (35% in the Highlands and Islands Special Transitional Plan Area). The level of grant will be based on need and it is unlikely that the maximum level will be awarded to all projects. To qualify for FIFG assistance you must also have a UK grant of at least 5% of the total cost of the project. Where this cannot be obtained from other sources we will provide the necessary grant should the project be successful. Your contribution to the project must be at least 60% (40% in the Highlands and Islands Special Plan Area). There is no minimum or maximum project cost. Funds are, however, limited and you should discuss the application with the contact given at 'How to Apply'.