National Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program (BREP) - FY2025

Background
The National Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program (BREP) is administered by the Fisheries Headquarters Program Office (FHQ) under NOAA. Its mission is to support the development of technological solutions and changes in fishing practices aimed at minimizing bycatch of fish and protected species, including those listed under the Endangered Species Act. The program also seeks to reduce impacts on invertebrates and minimize mortality and injury of bycaught species.

The goal for FY2025 is to fund projects that can directly influence management needs of federally managed living marine resources.

Grant Details
The BREP will provide competitive grants to non-Federal researchers focusing on improved fishing practices and innovative gear technologies. Projects must address at least one of the following priorities:
1) Develop innovative technologies or gear modifications to reduce bycatch impacts;
2) Further test or develop technologies that have shown success in reducing bycatch;
3) Improve understanding and reduction of post-release mortality;
4) Conduct comprehensive international bycatch analyses that inform U.S. fisheries conservation engineering. Approximately $2,300,000 is available for 10-15 projects, with individual awards ranging from $50,000 to $250,000, though proposals requesting more than $350,000 are not anticipated to be funded.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include individuals, institutions of higher education, nonprofits, for-profit organizations, foreign public entities or organizations, and state/local/tribal governments. Federal agencies are not eligible. Preference will be given to proposals involving collaboration with U.S. industry, fishermen, or underserved communities.

Period of Performance
Projects should propose a performance period of 12-18 months. The earliest start date for projects is September 1, 2025.

Grant Value
Approximately $2,300,000 total funding available for FY2025 with individual project awards ranging from $50,000 to $250,000.

Place of Performance
The geographic location for project performance must align with federally managed living marine resources.