Aquaculture Collaborative Research and Development Program ### 📋 Eligible Entities - Aquaculture businesses (commercial fish farms, shellfish operations, etc.) - Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the aquaculture sector - Industry associations and aquaculture cooperatives - Research institutions and universities (as collaborative partners) - Private sector companies supporting aquaculture operations - Canadian-based organizations with demonstrated aquaculture involvement - Entities must have capacity to co-invest and collaborate on research initiatives ### 💰 Funding Details - Grant Structure: Contribution-based (non-repayable funding) - Matching Requirement: Typically 50% cost-sharing from applicant (varies by component) - Funding Range: Project-dependent; no fixed maximum stated - Repayability: Grant funds are non-repayable (not a loan) - Co-investment: In-kind or cash contributions from participants required - Payment Method: Reimbursement basis upon eligible expense verification - Duration: Multi-year project timelines typical for R&D initiatives ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - Research Payroll: Scientist and technician wages directly supporting collaborative research - Fish Health Research: Studies on disease prevention, immunity, and welfare optimization - Environmental Performance: Water quality monitoring, waste management, sustainability assessments - Equipment & Materials: Laboratory instruments, monitoring technology, research supplies - Technology Adoption: Implementation of data systems, automation tools, sensor technology - Competitiveness Analysis: Market research and benchmarking studies - Knowledge Transfer: Documentation, training materials, and industry dissemination activities - Project Management: Coordination and administrative costs (within reasonable limits) ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Mandatory Collaboration: Research must involve partnership between industry and government researchers - Competitive Selection: Application subject to merit-based review and prioritization - Deliverables Required: Clear research objectives, timelines, and measurable outcomes - Reporting Obligations: Progress reports, financial statements, and final research documentation - **Intellectual