The Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources has opened applications for the Aaruveri Matching Grant Scheme, inviting proposals in five of its seven priority areas to strengthen the fisheries, mariculture and circular-economy sectors.
The scheme, implemented under the World Bank-supported TRANSFORM Project, provides grants covering 40 percent of approved project costs. Total funding allocated across the programme stands at MVR 278 million (approximately USD 18 million). Individual grants range from MVR 1 million to MVR 30 million.
Windows currently open for concept notes include support for energy-efficient systems on fishing vessels, infrastructure development on leased uninhabited islands and licensed agricultural operations, mariculture and hatchery initiatives, fish processing facilities, and value-addition activities by small and medium enterprises. Special consideration is given to women- and youth-led businesses.
Applications must be submitted through the official portal by noon on 30 November 2026, together with all required supporting documents. Incomplete submissions will be rejected. The ministry previously launched the scheme in August and has held information sessions across the atolls.
Officials say the grants aim to improve energy efficiency, expand sustainable production, develop mariculture as a commercial activity and increase the volume of value-added fish products.
