The National Aquaculture Technology and Innovation Hub

The National Aquaculture Technology and Innovation Hub (NATIH) will be a pioneering innovation centre set up to drive the UK’s ambitions to become a world leader in modern aquaculture practice. Due to open in 2025, NATIH will benefit from a £17 million investment through the Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal.

Aquaculture is a rapidly expanding global industry. In Scotland, the sector has ambitious plans to double its output by 2030. This gives us a unique opportunity to increase the economic, social and environmental benefits of aquaculture. The hub will use the latest research to tackle the major challenges facing aquaculture producers, such as fish welfare and managing environmental impacts, to ensure that the UK leads and innovates within the aquaculture industry.

The National Aquaculture Technology and Innovation Hub will deliver new state-of-the-art laboratories and aquatic experimental facilities, reinforcing this world-leading work. Collaboration will be at the heart of the approach, enabling experts to conduct dynamic and commercially relevant research in partnership with leading aquaculture companies to ensure our local workforce is prepared and equipped with the skills the blue food economy of the future will require.

By co-locating industry partners with the Institute, the aim of translating scientific research into practical and meaningful solutions to support economic development—locally, nationally and beyond—will be achieved, ensuring the region is at the heart of supporting and securing global food security.