The Research and Innovation Directorate (RID) is pleased to inform the University community of a funding opportunity under the Schmidt Marine Technology Partners (SMTP) Proposal Portal 2026. This call seeks proposals centred on the development of novel technologies with a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 2 to 6, as well as related projects that fall within Schmidt Marine’s four focus areas. The programme is designed to support innovative technologies with strong potential for significant impact in addressing ocean-related challenges. It is open to applicants from all geographic regions, including universities, non-profit organisations, and start-up companies.

Funding Focus Areas
Proposals should align with one or more of the following areas:

• Sustaining Fisheries — technologies to reduce bycatch and ghost gear, improve fisheries monitoring, increase seafood supply-chain transparency, improve enforcement, and support the sustainability of wild-caught fisheries;
• Habitat Health — technologies for restoration and protection of marine species and ecosystems, including coral, shellfish, seaweed, and seagrass, as well as technologies to monitor, mitigate, or prevent coastal pollution and invasive species impacts;
• Ocean Observing — technologies that significantly expand ocean monitoring and data collection capabilities for restoration and related research; and
• Network Support — services and tools that strengthen the marine technology ecosystem, including incubators, accelerators, community infrastructure, and related support mechanisms.

 Eligibility
The call is open to applicants working on innovative ideas with significant impact potential at:

• Universities
• Non-profit organisations
• Start-up companies

 Funding Level and Support

• Most grants are between USD 100,000 and USD 400,000
• While grants are generally offered for 12 months, projects showing strong progress may receive annual renewals for three years or more

 Application Deadline: 31 July 2026 at 12:00 PM PST

For more information on the call and application process, kindly visit: https://schmidtmarine.org/proposals/

RID encourages colleagues in marine science, fisheries, environmental science, ocean technology, engineering, data science, conservation technology, and related fields to explore this opportunity, particularly those developing technologies with strong scaling or commercialization potential for ocean conservation and sustainability. Please email rid-grantsmgt@ug.edu.gh, with  gobeng-benefo@noguchi.ug.edu.gh in copy, ahead of the deadline.