The independent body which supports innovation and sustainable growth in Scotland’s aquaculture sector is to benefit from a new £7 million funding package from Crown Estate Scotland – the public corporation which manages Scotland’s seabed.

Under the new five-year agreement, Crown Estate Scotland (CES) will provide the Sustainable Aquaculture Innovation Cluster Ltd (SAIC) with £1.4 million per annum to deliver and enhance its core operations and to provide seed funding for R&D projects. The move will also see SAIC become independent from its current host institution, the University of Stirling. 

The funding arrangement will be guided by a new contractual arrangement between SAIC and the Scottish Government, ensuring there is clear governmental oversight of the work of the cluster.

Scottish aquaculture is a nationally significant sector that contributes substantial economic, social and environmental value to Scotland, particularly in the Highlands and Islands. Established in 2014, SAIC plays a critical role in supporting the sector’s resilience, innovation, capacity and long‑term prosperity and covers finfish, shellfish and seaweed. 

The new SAIC will operate as a fully independent legal entity with a distinct governance and delivery model, separate from the legacy SAIC which had been hosted by the University of Stirling.

SAIC coordinates cutting-edge research and development opportunities. It plays a pivotal role in connecting academics, producers, the aquaculture supply chain and government stakeholders to deliver innovation, technological development and knowledge‑exchange. This work directly addresses environmental pressures, productivity challenges, animal health and the impacts of climate change, helping ensure the sector remains competitive and future focused.

Mike Spain, Director of Aquaculture and Marine Ecosystem Services with 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.”
 

Crown Estate Scotland’s new funding agreement has been developed in partnership with the Scottish Government’s Marine Directorate. Mairi Gougeon, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands, 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, Head of Research and Innovation at 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.

KeyFacts Renewable Energy Directory: Crown Estate Scotland