Coastal Capacity Building Fund

The Coastal Capacity Building Fund funds local projects in coastal areas in Wales, bringing together partners to tackle the climate emergency. This enables communities to take action in Welsh coastal areas to support nature recovery and sustainability. The scheme is continuing for 2025-27, following a successful round of projects in 2023-25.

Funding is distributed via the Local Nature Partnerships (LNPs) and projects are run in partnership with the local LNP Co-ordinator. The fund aims to build capacity for community partners, helping them to deliver sustainable action that supports growth and recovery in local marine and coastal areas.

It encourages collaboration between stakeholders, such as communities, businesses, local authorities and other public bodies, and build networks that foster nature recovery and rejuvenation in coastal areas. All projects must meet at least one of the fisheries objectives of the Fisheries Act 2020.

Welsh Government is funding the scheme for 2025-27, building on its investment in local nature recovery through the Local Nature Partnerships.

Some examples of the kinds of activities the fund supports:

• Delivering the fisheries objectives, as outlined in the fisheries strategic approach
• Developing skills, knowledge and networks/partnerships to engage with marine and coastal issues
• Carrying out scoping exercises to look at reducing carbon emissions in the marine/coastal environment
• Increasing public understanding of local eco-systems and how to manage and use them responsibly
• Implementing recycling initiatives
• Conducting research into local environments and the impact of climate change
• Improving local seafood supply chains and their sustainability
• Fostering sustainable recreation and tourism
• Building understanding of how to improve water quality
• Developing environmentally friendly food packaging