National Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program (BREP) - FY2026/27
Description
This grant program provides competitive grants to non-Federal researchers working to benefit U.S. fishermen and fisheries, including aquaculture, through the development of improved fishing practices and innovative gear technologies. The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, as amended (MSA), 16 U.S.C. 1865, requires that NOAA’s conservation and management measures minimize bycatch to the extent practicable and established the Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program (BREP) to support the development of technological devices and other conservation engineering changes to minimize bycatch and reduce post-release mortality of non-target species in our nation’s fisheries. Bycatch reduction is a priority for the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), as outlined in the NMFS National Bycatch Reduction Strategy (https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/national/bycatch/national-bycatchreduction-strategy). Fisheries bycatch can contribute to overfishing, population declines for threatened and endangered species, and can result in commercial fishery closures. This Program seeks to support the development and testing of fishing gears and approaches that can be applied in commercial and recreational fisheries to reduce bycatch and post-release mortality and address the MSA requirements to minimize bycatch and habitat impacts.
Eligibility
See official grant page for eligibility requirements
Industry Tags
About This Grant
This grant program provides competitive grants to non-Federal researchers working to benefit U.S. fishermen and fisheries, including aquaculture, through the development of improved fishing practices and innovative gear technologies. The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, as amended (MSA), 16 U.S.C. 1865, requires that NOAA’s conservation and management measures minimize bycatch to the extent practicable and established the Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program (BREP) to support the development of technological devices and other conservation engineering changes to minimize bycatch and reduce post-release mortality of non-target species in our nation’s fisheries. Bycatch reduction is a priority for the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), as outlined in the NMFS National Bycatch Reduction Strategy (https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/national/bycatch/national-bycatchreduction-strategy). Fisheries bycatch can contribute to overfishing, population declines for threatened and endangered species, and can result in commercial fishery closures. This Program seeks to support the development and testing of fishing gears and approaches that can be applied in commercial and recreational fisheries to reduce bycatch and post-release mortality and address the MSA requirements to minimize bycatch and habitat impacts.
Funding Information
- Award Ceiling
- $400,000
- Award Floor
- $50,000
- Estimated Total Program Funding
- $4,600,000
- Expected Number of Awards
- 30
Eligibility Overview
This opportunity from DOC NOAA - ERA Production is open to eligible applicants nationwide. Organizations working in Federal are especially encouraged to review the requirements.
Federal grant opportunities like this one are typically open to a range of applicant types. Common eligible organizations include:
- Nonprofits and 501(c)(3) organizations
- Small businesses and startups (especially for SBIR/STTR programs)
- State, local, and tribal governments
- Colleges, universities, and research institutions
- Individuals (for select programs in education, arts, and research)
Eligibility requirements vary by opportunity. Always review the official listing before investing time in an application.
How to Apply
- 1
Review the full opportunity
Read the complete Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for this DOC NOAA - ERA Production program on its official page (https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/363692).
- 2
Confirm eligibility
Check that your organization meets every requirement set by DOC NOAA - ERA Production — applicant type, location, registration status, and any prior-award restrictions.
- 3
Prepare required documents
Gather your budget narrative, needs statement, organizational details, SAM.gov registration, and any required certifications.
- 4
Submit before the deadline
This opportunity closes on January 22, 2027. Submit at least 48 hours early — portal systems are often slow near closing time.
Grant Writing Tips
Proposals for federal programs such as those from DOC NOAA - ERA Production are competitive — these tips can strengthen your application:
- ✓Start your application at least 4 weeks before the deadline — rushed proposals score lower.
- ✓Tailor your needs statement to match the funder's stated priorities, using their exact language where possible.
- ✓Have a colleague outside your team review your budget narrative before submitting — fresh eyes catch errors reviewers penalize.
More Grants from DOC NOAA - ERA Production
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for National Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program (BREP) - FY2026/27?
This opportunity from DOC NOAA - ERA Production is open to eligible applicants nationwide. Organizations working in Federal are especially encouraged to review the requirements. Always confirm the full eligibility criteria on the official listing before applying.
How much funding does National Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program (BREP) - FY2026/27 provide?
Award amounts for National Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program (BREP) - FY2026/27 range from $50,000 to $400,000.
When is the deadline for National Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program (BREP) - FY2026/27?
The application deadline for National Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program (BREP) - FY2026/27 is January 22, 2027. Submit at least 48 hours early to avoid last-minute portal issues.
How do I apply for National Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program (BREP) - FY2026/27?
Apply for National Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program (BREP) - FY2026/27 through the official grant page (https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/363692). Confirm your eligibility and prepare your application materials before the deadline.
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