About SSFFN

The Small Scale Fisheries Funder Network (SSFFN) brings together marine funders committed to strengthening small-scale fisheries worldwide. We create space for collaboration through regular networking calls, webinars, and direct connections with grantees on the ground.

Launched in 2018, the SSFFN helps funders learn and connect to inform strategic investments across a range of critical issues. Our members represent diverse funding priorities — from ocean health and conservation to food systems, human rights, gender equity, and climate adaptation. What unites our members is a commitment to interventions that balance environmental sustainability, food security, and thriving fishing communities.

Why small-scale fisheries?

Small-scale fisheries employ over 60 million people — 90% of all fisheries workers globally — and provide essential nutrition and livelihoods for coastal and inland communities. Despite their critical role, small-scale fishers have been systematically excluded from the decisions that directly affect their futures.

Small-scale fisheries is about more than fish. It's about the food security of billions, the livelihoods of coastal communities, the rights of Indigenous peoples, the empowerment of women who process and trade seafood, and the health of ocean ecosystems. It intersects with climate adaptation, economic development, cultural preservation, human rights, and conservation. Supporting small-scale fisheries means recognizing these connections and funding holistically across social, economic, and environmental objectives.

Membership

Eligibility:

The SSFFN welcomes representatives from philanthropic and giving institutions committed to supporting small-scale fishing communities. While many of our members make direct grants to small-scale fisheries initiatives, this isn't a requirement for participation. We also welcome organizations whose programmatic work—whether in ocean conservation, food systems, climate adaptation, coastal resilience, or environmental justice—intersects with and supports small-scale fishing communities.

Why Join the SSFFN:

SSFFN members gain access to trusted peer expertise through learning exchange, field-based insights from small-scale fisher representatives and leading experts, and evidence that shapes meaningful investments. The result — more strategic, equitable grantmaking that delivers real impact for small-scale fishing communities.

Programming

  • Each year, the network hosts four webinars featuring guest speakers and provide time for ample discussion. The webinar topics are determined based on the annual learning goals of network members and have covered a range of topics, including: sustainable fisheries, gender and equity in SSF, communications, capacity building, impact investing, and monitoring, evaluation and learning.

  • Each quarter, the network hosts an informal call for Funders to connect, provide updates on their work, and reach out to colleagues for collaboration and support. These calls also offer an opportunity for funder learning exchange and discussion.

  • Connecting with the work of grantees provides funders an opportunity to learn about challenges, opportunities, and successes when funds are implemented. Twice a year, the network hosts calls to provide opportunities for learning from grantees.

  • Our newsletter keeps members informed with meeting recaps, webinar recordings, relevant news from the field, upcoming events, and funding opportunities.

Contact us

Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!