Promotion of the Sustainable Development of the Fisheries Area of the Lower Saxony North Sea Coast

The funding program supports the sustainable and integrated development of the fisheries area of the Lower Saxony North Sea coast and is aimed at companies, public institutions, private individuals, as well as interest groups and associations implementing projects in line with the development strategy developed by the Local Fisheries Action Group (FLAG). Preparatory measures for planning, management, and evaluation, as well as concrete investments and cooperation activities on site, are eligible for funding. Up to 100 % of the eligible expenses can be covered, with private applicants generally receiving a minimum of 50 % subsidy. Applications can be submitted continuously before the start of the measure to the Chamber of Agriculture of Lower Saxony and will be evaluated based on the EMFAF selection criteria.

A prerequisite is integration into the EMFAF program 2021–2027 as well as implementation within the defined districts of Leer, Aurich, Wittmund, Friesland, Wesermarsch, and Cuxhaven. The project must be selected by the FLAG and carried out by participants with proven expertise. Purely commercial projects require proof of profitability, while binding periods of up to twelve years apply for structural facilities and five years for machinery and equipment. The minimum amount of eligible expenses is €3,000 for private applicants and €10,000 for public-law entities. After a positive vote by the FLAG, the grant award is made by the Lower Saxony Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection.