Why do I have to pay for the device before I can be reimbursed?

Unfortunately, there are specific rules and legislation on grants from the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) and there is no provision for upfront payments. A fisher can apply for and claim the grant for an I-VMS device, subject to the fund’s terms and conditions. This is no different to other general EMFF funding rules. 

The grant cap has been reviewed and increased to cover costs of up to £1,050 per vessel, and the claims process has been streamlined. 

Fishers can now claim their grant by providing proof of purchase. Grant applications will be processed and paid within 3-5 working days of receipt of all required information, and possibly even sooner. To ensure that payments are made as quickly as possible please follow the guidance and make sure you submit the invoice and proof of payment as well as completing the application form.    

For owners with more than one vessel, you can mitigate the upfront financial load by phasing your bookings to one vessel at a time. 

Advice can be found by contacting the MMO Grants team on 0330 041 6579 or ukfisheriessupport@marinemanagement.org.uk

EMFF grants: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/european-maritime-fisheries-fund-emff-i-vms