The results of the 2012/13 SFF round are being announced to applicants this week.
The aquaculture sector was invited to put forward SFF proposals for the first time, following the creation of a merged Ministry.
MPI has approved a total of 61 projects for funding, with a total allocation of just over NZ$8 million over three years.
Of the new projects, 29 projects will receive grant funding of over NZ$25,000 for up to three years (with a total allocation of NZ$7,388,432).
Also, 29 smaller projects targeted at feasibility projects for smaller sectors or regional groups will receive grant funding of under NZ$25,000 (with a total allocation of NZ$636,472).
Also, three existing projects will receive extension funding (with a total allocation of NZ$76,087).
Kathy Mansell, MPI Director of Growth and Innovation, says the portfolio of approved projects provides a balance of funding across the primary sectors, regions of New Zealand and types of activities (such as development, extension, feasibility studies and capability building).
The SFF is typically between three and four times oversubscribed, and this round was no exception.
Competition is tough and the approved projects are very deserving of MPIs support. We look forward to seeing the outcomes of their work.
The approved aquaculture projects are:
- Blue Mussel Over-Settlement Project (Marine Farming Association Inc) SFF grant funding NZ$282,000;
- Oyster Industry Modernisation Project (Aquaculture New Zealand and New Zealand Oyster Industry Association) SFF grant funding NZ$407,000;
- Environmental Certification for New Zealand Aquaculture (Aquaculture New Zealand) SFF grant funding NZ$510,000;
- Kaitaia Spat Working Group Project (Marine Farming Association Inc) SFF grant funding NZ$25,000.
