The primary goal is to foster economic diversification within fishing communities, stimulate job creation, and promote activities linked to the blue economy. This strategy will be implemented in 17 municipalities, including Bermeo, Mundaka, and Elantxobe.
This aid will be managed within the framework of the Participatory Local Development Strategy and the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund. The Government will collaborate with the Local Action Group of the Fisheries Sector, which will be responsible for ensuring the strategy's application within its territorial scope.
Potential beneficiaries include fishermen's guilds and their federations, worker associations, producer organizations, and other entities related to the fishing sector. Additionally, support will be available for stakeholders developing projects in areas such as nautical activities, promotion of fishery products, marine and coastal environment, maritime and fishing heritage, tourism, and the blue economy.
The total budget is 2.1 million euros. Of this amount, 1.47 million euros come from the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund, while the remaining 630,000 euros will be financed from the General Budgets of Euskadi. Investments will be allocated to production (1.85 million euros) and non-productive activities (230,000 euros), as well as job creation (20,000 euros).
Productive investments will enable the creation and launch of new companies and business lines related to the diversification of the fishing sector, targeting microenterprises, small and medium-sized enterprises, and individuals who will form companies. Non-productive investments, on the other hand, will support projects of collective interest, such as campaigns to promote fish consumption or activities to raise awareness of fishing heritage.
A dedicated line for employment promotion will encourage new hires and self-employment, provided the activities are linked to the diversification of the fishing sector or the blue economy. This initiative aims to strengthen the development of the fishing community by supporting new economic activities and job creation, while valuing the coastal environment, culture, and marine resources.
