Bids invited for EU money

ALMOST £500,000 of European funding has been made available for Shetland fisheries and aquaculture businesses.

The money comes from the European Maritime & Fisheries Fund (EMFF) 2014 t0 2020, and is locally administered by the Shetland Fisheries Local Action Group (FLAG).

The group is now inviting bids from companies and fisheries organisations that can meet the conditions of supporting sustainable development and helping coastal communities in diversifying their economies.

FLAG chairwoman Ruth Henderson said the £485,000 allocated would make a difference.

“I’m delighted that Shetland has received an allocation of EMFF funding and hope that we will be able to support a wide range of local projects.

“I would encourage potential project applicants to come forward as soon as possible,” she said.

Projects that fit with EMFF and local development strategy priorities will then be invited to complete a full application for funding through Marine Scotland’s online e-system portal.

FLAG will assess project applications and make recommendations for funding to Marine Scotland who will be responsible for making the final decision.

In accordance with current Marine Scotland guidance, projects have to be completed and fully claimed by 31 March 2018.

More information is available at: www.shetlandleader.org/about/european-maritime-fisheries-fund-emff-2014-20