Assessing the Sustainable Aquaculture Innovation Cluster (SAIC): equality impact assessment

Background

The original SAIC was established in 2014 as a project of the University of Stirling (UoS) supported by funding from the Scottish Funding Council (SFC). The original SAIC has supported more than a hundred innovative projects, has played a vital role in knowledge exchange and thought leadership and has supported the delivery of a “team Scotland” approach to aquaculture development alongside Government, industry and development agencies. SFC funding has now ended and SAIC currently operates on a transitional basis, through to 31st March 2026, with funding from SFC and Marine Directorate. It is necessary to develop a sustainable and long term solution for aquaculture innovation finance, in order to maintain and enhance these benefits for Scotland.

SAIC is an enabling, strategic decision focused on strengthening sector capacity rather than directly affecting individuals. It seeks to reduce structural barriers to innovation and expand knowledge exchange across industry and research partners. Policy aims include:

• Supporting micro and small aquaculture enterprises particularly those in rural and island communities to overcome structural barriers to innovation
• Sector resilience productivity and sustainability through targeted interventions
• encouraging collaboration between industry research institutions and stakeholders to drive technological and process innovation

Rationale

• Scotland's aquaculture sector is a major employer in rural and island communities contributing significantly to local economies
• Micro and small businesses face challenges accessing funding, knowledge networks and innovation opportunities particularly in remote or island locations
• SAIC addresses these needs by providing a voluntary, enabling framework that reduces barriers and encourages inclusive participation