Program Overview
The U.S. Trout Farmers Association (USTFA) is pleased to announce a Small Grants Program to support education and outreach related to U.S. aquaculture. The goal of this program is to increase awareness and understanding of fish farming, support workforce development, and provide science-based educational resources about the role of aquaculture – especially trout farming – in sustainable food production.
USTFA seeks to fund projects that communicate the value of domestic aquaculture and fish hatchery operations, highlight innovation and environmental stewardship in the industry, and foster connections between producers, educators, students, and the public.
Projects should emphasize clear, accessible communication and practical engagement with audiences who may not be familiar with aquaculture or trout farming.
Funding Available
- Award size: Up to $2500 per project
- Project duration: Up to 12 months
- Expected number of awards: 1-2 projects per year depending on funding availability
Matching funds are not required but are encouraged where feasible.
Eligible Applicants
Applications are welcome from individuals and organizations involved in aquaculture education, outreach, and workforce development, including:
- Universities and colleges
- Extension programs and aquaculture specialists
- 4-H, Future Farmers of America, and similar nonprofit organizations
- K–12 educators and school districts
- Aquaculture producers and producer organizations
- Museums, aquaria, and science centers
- Community organizations and workforce training programs
Collaborations involving trout producers and educational institutions are particularly encouraged.
Priority Areas
USTFA is particularly interested in projects that address the following topics:
- Public Understanding of Trout Farming
Projects that help the public understand how trout are raised, including production practices in U.S. trout farms, environmental stewardship and water management, seafood safety/security, nutritional value of seafood consumption, and seafood sustainability. - Youth and Classroom Education
Development of educational materials and programs that introduce students to trout aquaculture, including classroom curricula, teacher resources, hands-on aquaculture learning activities, and STEM integration. - Workforce Development
Programs that support training and career awareness related to trout aquaculture, such as workshops, student internships, farm experiences, or training materials for aquaculture careers. - Producer-Community Engagement
Outreach activities that connect trout farmers with local communities, including farm tours, public talks, workshops, and demonstration events. - Digital and Media Outreach
Development of outreach materials such as educational videos, podcasts, webinars, online learning modules, or interactive digital content.
Examples of Fundable Projects
Examples of projects that may be supported include:
- Development of educational videos highlighting trout farming operations
- Teacher workshops focused on aquaculture in STEM education
- Educational field trips to fish farms and hatcheries
- Installation of fish rearing systems/equipment to facilitate hands-on learning
- Youth aquaculture camps or experiential learning programs
- Public outreach campaigns explaining how trout are farmed in the United States
- Online modules about aquaculture technology and sustainability
- Educational materials explaining feed, nutrition, or water management in trout farming
Application Requirements
Applications must include:
- Project Title and Applicant Information
- Project Description
- Goals and objectives
- Target audience
- Outreach methods and activities
- Expected Outcomes and Impact
- Estimated audience reach
- Educational products or other materials created
- Project Timeline
- Evaluation Plan
- Budget and Budget Justification
- Optional Letters of Collaboration or Support
Evaluation Criteria
Applications will be reviewed based on:
- Relevance to trout aquaculture education and outreach
- Potential impact and audience reach
- Innovation and effectiveness of communication approach
- Feasibility and clarity of the project plan
- Qualifications of the project team
- Engagement with trout producers or industry stakeholders
Reporting Requirements
Awardees will be required to:
- Provide a brief progress update midway through the project
- Submit a final report summarizing activities, audience reach, and outcomes
- Provide images/video to promote the funded project via USTFA social media and other USTFA outlets.
- Share any educational materials developed so they can be made available to the trout farming community
Although not required, awardees will be encouraged to attend the USTFA Fall Conference and present an overview of the project.
Timeline
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and will be reviewed as they are received until available funds are awarded.