A £7 million funding package has been announced to support innovation and sustainable growth in Scotland’s aquaculture sector, with significant benefits expected for the Highlands and Islands.
Crown Estate Scotland will provide £1.4 million a year over five years to the Sustainable Aquaculture Innovation Cluster, supporting core operations and new research projects.
The move will also see the organisation become fully independent, separating from its current host institution, the University of Stirling.
The funding will be delivered through a new agreement involving the Scottish Government, providing oversight of the cluster’s work.
Aquaculture remains a key industry in Scotland, particularly in coastal and rural communities, supporting jobs, exports and long term economic growth.
The Sustainable Aquaculture Innovation Cluster plays a central role in connecting researchers, producers and industry partners to develop new technologies and improve practices.
Its work covers finfish, shellfish and seaweed, addressing challenges such as environmental pressures, animal health and climate change.
Mike Spain of Crown Estate Scotland said:
“The Sustainable Aquaculture Innovation Cluster has a proud history and enviable reputation as Scotland’s independent aquaculture research and development coordination body, working across the finfish, shellfish and seaweed sectors.
“Its work is vital in supporting a programme of constant improvements to one of Scotland’s most important industries.
“This funding from Crown Estate Scotland represents a substantial investment in that expertise and in the sector more widely.
“SAIC’s research underpins the strategic priorities of Crown Estate Scotland, and this investment will help safeguard future aquaculture leasing, support sustainable development and enhance environmental outcomes, for the benefit of the people of Scotland.”
Cabinet Secretary Mairi Gougeon said:
“Scotland’s aquaculture sector plays an essential role in supporting food systems, coastal communities and sustainable economic growth.
“Establishing a new independent Sustainable Aquaculture Innovation Cluster will ensure the continuity of world class research and innovation for the sector.
“This new organisation will provide a strong and transparent framework for collaborative science, improved fish health and welfare, and climate ready practices.
“This transformation ensures that vital innovation support continues seamlessly as the current model comes to an end in March 2026.”
Sarah Riddle of SAIC said:
“The funding from the Scottish Government and Crown Estate Scotland marks a new start for SAIC.
“Aquaculture is an increasingly important part of Scotland’s economy, particularly in coastal and rural areas, providing high quality, skilled jobs and an export we can be proud of and there are significant opportunities to develop that further.
“Innovation is a critical part of helping the sector to grow sustainably and realising its full potential.
“We are very grateful for the continued support in delivering the important work SAIC has delivered to date, ranging from fish health and welfare to the adoption of new technologies, and look forward to sharing more details in the coming weeks.”
The new funding agreement will begin on 1 April 2026, with the aim of strengthening innovation, supporting jobs and ensuring the long term sustainability of the sector.
