WTO Fish Fund Grant 2026: Second Call for Proposals Now Open
The World Trade Organization (WTO) Fisheries Funding Mechanism Trust Fund, popularly known as the Fish Fund, has announced its Second Call for Proposals for the 2026 funding cycle.
This funding opportunity is open to developing and least-developed country (LDC) WTO Members that have ratified the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies. The grant is designed to support countries in implementing the agreement while promoting sustainable fisheries management and ocean conservation.
What Is the WTO Fish Fund Grant 2026?
The WTO Fish Fund is a voluntary funding mechanism created to help eligible WTO Members:
Implement the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies
Strengthen fisheries governance and compliance
Promote sustainable use of marine resources
Protect oceans and coastal livelihoods
By supporting these efforts, the Fund contributes to long-term environmental sustainability and responsible fisheries practices worldwide.
Available Funding Categories
The Fish Fund supports projects under two funding categories, depending on the level and scope of intervention.
Category 1 Projects (Up to US$50,000)
Category 1 funding is meant for early-stage and preparatory activities, including:
Needs assessments
Feasibility studies
Planning and preparatory work
Development of proposals for Category 2 funding
This category is ideal for countries preparing for larger-scale implementation projects.
Category 2 Projects (Up to US$300,000)
Category 2 funding supports larger and more comprehensive projects, which may be:
Standalone initiatives, or
Part of broader development programmes supported by other partners
Projects under this category must be supported by a prior national needs assessment identifying key gaps and priorities in implementing fisheries subsidies disciplines.
Who Can Apply for the WTO Fish Fund Grant 2026?
Applications are open to:
Developing WTO Members
Least-Developed Country (LDC) WTO Members
Countries that have ratified the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies
Proposals must align with the objectives of sustainable fisheries and ocean protection.
How to Apply for the WTO Fish Fund Grant 2026
Eligible Members should submit their applications through the official WTO Fish Fund Portal:
Apply here:
https://www.wtofishfund.org/en/apply
Detailed guidance on eligibility, proposal requirements, and submission procedures is available on the portal.
Application Deadline
24 April 2026
Applicants are encouraged to begin preparations early to submit complete and competitive proposals before the deadline.
Need More Information?
For further enquiries, applicants can contact the Fish Fund Secretariat:
Why This Grant Matters
The WTO Fish Fund provides critical financial support that helps developing countries and LDCs:
Meet international fisheries obligations
Improve governance and policy implementation
Protect marine ecosystems
Support sustainable livelihoods in coastal communities
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) WTO Fish Fund Grant 2026
1. What is the WTO Fish Fund 2026?
The WTO Fish Fund is a voluntary funding mechanism established by the World Trade Organization (WTO) to help eligible Members implement the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies and promote sustainable fisheries and ocean conservation.
2. Who is eligible to apply for the WTO Fish Fund Grant 2026?
The grant is open to:
Developing country WTO Members
Least-Developed Country (LDC) WTO Members
Applicants must have ratified the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies.
3. What types of projects are funded?
The Fish Fund supports projects related to:
Fisheries policy and governance
Sustainable fisheries management
Compliance with fisheries subsidies rules
Capacity building, research, and implementation planning
4. How much funding is available?
Funding is available under two categories:
Category 1: Up to US$50,000 for assessments, feasibility studies, and preparatory work
Category 2: Up to US$300,000 for larger implementation and programmatic projects
5. What is the difference between Category 1 and Category 2 projects?
Category 1 projects focus on early-stage activities such as needs assessments and proposal development.
Category 2 projects support more advanced and comprehensive initiatives and must be based on a prior national needs assessment.
6. Can Category 1 funding be used to prepare for Category 2 projects?
Yes. Category 1 funding can be used to develop proposals and assessments that qualify an applicant for Category 2 funding.
7. How do eligible countries apply?
Applications must be submitted through the official WTO Fish Fund online portal at:
https://www.wtofishfund.org/en/apply
8. What is the deadline for the Second Call for Proposals?
The Second Call for Proposals closes on 24 April 2026.
9. Are NGOs or individuals allowed to apply directly?
No. Applications must be submitted by eligible WTO Member governments or their authorised institutions. NGOs and consultants may participate only through government-led projects.
10. Where can applicants get more information or support?
For further enquiries, applicants can contact the Fish Fund Secretariat via:
fishfund@wto.org
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