National Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program (BREP) - FY2026/27

Background
The National Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program (BREP) is a grant program established under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, aimed at minimizing bycatch in U.S. fisheries. The program supports non-Federal researchers in developing improved fishing practices and innovative gear technologies to benefit U.S. fishermen and fisheries, including aquaculture. Bycatch reduction is a priority for the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), as it can contribute to overfishing and population declines of threatened species.

Grant Details
The BREP provides competitive grants for projects that develop technological devices and conservation engineering changes to minimize bycatch and reduce post-release mortality of non-target species. Proposals must address at least one of the following priorities:

1) Development of innovative technologies or practices to reduce bycatch impacts, particularly on overfished stocks or protected species;

2) Further testing of previously piloted technologies that successfully reduced bycatch;

3) Understanding and reducing post-release mortality associated with commercial and recreational fisheries.

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

Period of Performance
Projects should propose a period of performance between 12 to 18 months, with an expected start date no earlier than August 1, 2027.

Grant Value
Up to $4,600,000 in federal funds is available for FY 2027 to support approximately 20 to 30 projects with individual awards ranging from $50,000 to $400,000.

Place of Performance
The specific geographic locations for project performance are expected to be within U.S. fisheries.