The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is offering a funding opportunity under the Marine Fisheries Initiative Program (MARFIN) for research projects aimed at optimizing U.S. marine fishery resources, particularly in the Gulf of Mexico and Southeastern U.S. Eligible applicants include institutions of higher education, nonprofit organizations, individuals, and state, local, and Indian tribal governments, with no cost-sharing requirement. This initiative is crucial for enhancing sustainable fisheries management and conservation, addressing both ecological and economic aspects of marine resources. Proposals can request funding between $175,000 and $525,000, with a submission deadline of December 31, 2024. Interested parties can reach out to Kelly Donnelly at kelly.donnelly@noaa.gov for further inquiries regarding the application process.