2026 Atlantic Sea Scallop Research Set Aside Program
Grant Opportunity Analysis
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is soliciting proposals for the 2026 Atlantic Sea Scallop Research Set-Aside (RSA) Program, aimed at enhancing knowledge of the scallop fishery resource and informing management decisions. This competitive grant opportunity allows successful applicants to receive scallop RSA quota, with proceeds from its sale funding approved research activities and compensating scallop vessel owners, rather than providing direct federal funds. Key research priorities include scallop resource surveys, biology, interactions with sea turtles, improvements in commercial fishing gear, bycatch reduction, and impacts of offshore wind energy. Proposals are due by March 23, 2026, and interested applicants must register in SAM.gov, eRA Commons, and Grants.gov. For further inquiries, contact Ryan Silva at ryan.silva@noaa.gov or by phone at 978-281-9326.
Eligible Applicants
Eligible applicants include, but are not limited to, institutions of higher education, hospitals, other nonprofits, commercial organizations, individuals, state, local, and Native American tribal governments. Federal agencies and instrumentalities are not eligible to receive Federal assistance under this notice. Additionally, employees of any Federal agency or Regional Fishery Management (RFM) Council, including Council members, are ineligible to submit an application under this program.