Young Fishermen's Career Development Projects

Young Fishermen's Career Development Projects is a NOAA Sea Grant competition housed under the National Sea Grant College Program. It is aimed at building the next generation of commercial fishermen through training, mentoring, and community partnerships, with eligible applicants coming from fishing communities, tribal organizations, educational institutions, and government or nonprofit partners. Sea Grant's national mission is broad coastal stewardship, but this track is narrow and workforce-centered. The program is a grant competition with a 25% non-federal match, maximum federal support of about $400,000 per project, and roughly $1 million available in the FY2025 round for two or three projects. The available fields point to a one- to two-year project window and U.S.-based applicants operating in commercial fishing or fisheries contexts. Federal agencies may participate as uncompensated co-PIs, but they are not eligible to receive funds. Strong proposals pair practical skills development with a real community network. The opportunity is built for seamanship, navigation, electronics, safety, vessel and engine care, and sustainable fishing practice, so the best fit is a partnership that can show access to working fishermen and a credible pathway into the trade. This is not a general fisheries research grant; it is a workforce and succession program.

Each grant below is a distinct funding opportunity with its own eligibility, scope, and deliverables.