Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and Israel Innovation Authority invite companies to develop next-generation aquaculture technologies through the Aquaculture Pilot Program
The Israel Innovation Authority, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, today announced a new call for proposals under the Aquaculture Pilot Program, inviting industrial corporations conducting commercial research and development (R&D) to test and demonstrate innovative technologies in the field of aquaculture.
The global aquaculture industry is facing mounting challenges, including climate change, increasing pressure on water and energy resources, and the need to strengthen food security for future generations. The new program is designed to accelerate the commercialization of Israeli technologies that address these challenges while reinforcing Israel’s leadership in sustainable food production and agricultural innovation.
Dror Bin, CEO of the Israel Innovation Authority, said: “Aquaculture is an area where Israel has the opportunity to build a clear competitive advantage by combining biological expertise, engineering, monitoring and control systems, data, and artificial intelligence. Bringing together advanced technological capabilities with the challenges facing aquaculture creates a significant opportunity to develop solutions with global impact, measured not only by innovation, but by successful demonstration in real-world farming environments. This is how Israeli solutions become commercial products that advance smart agriculture, address the climate crisis, and strengthen advanced food systems in Israel and around the world.”
Dr. Michal Levy, Chief Scientist at the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, said: “Israeli innovation in aquaculture and future food is just around the corner. This new Call for Proposals is designed to provide the momentum and resources needed to take technologies out of the laboratory, validate them in real-world conditions, pave the way for commercialization, and develop solutions for the future of food and high-quality protein that will strengthen Israel’s national food security.”
The program is designed to support projects that can be completed within a period of up to 24 months and bring participating companies to an advanced level of technological readiness, including field demonstration and proof of feasibility. The call for proposals focuses on advancing breakthrough solutions, including precision aquaculture technologies featuring monitoring and control systems, sensing technologies, data management, and artificial intelligence for optimized cultivation.
The initiative also supports closed systems and controlled environments that improve resource efficiency and reduce environmental risks, as well as genetic and bio-ecological technologies to enhance the health of fish and crustaceans, improve disease resistance, and adapt species to changing climate conditions. In addition, it promotes solutions for algae cultivation and alternative feed, including algae-based nutritional supplements and functional products, sustainable feed alternatives, and sustainability and climate solutions aimed at reducing emissions, improving energy and water management, and preparing marine and land-based systems for the impacts of climate change.
Government grants may cover up to 50% of eligible project costs. Companies carrying out the majority of their program in Development Area A will be eligible for an additional 10% grant.