Our investment into European fish farming future
In 2024, FEAP initiated preliminary actions, meetings, exchanges and brainstorms with its members and rising stars of European aquaculture: the Young Aquaculture Professionals Networks. FEAP believes that young professionals working in different sectors of the industry, from production to sales, veterinary, innovation and management, must be connected, heard and, whenever needed, supported and mentored by FEAP members and their experts.
Grouped under the “FEAP NextGen” operation name, these actions intend to build bridges and exchange opportunities between young professionals across countries and maritime basins, connecting young inland farmers with their coastal counterparts to create a community of knowledge and practice.
Kickstarted in Lisbon during FEAP’s General Assembly in the presence of NOWA (Network of Women in Aquaculture) YAS (Young Aquaculture Society) WiSA (Women in Scottish Aquaculture) and Young Fish Norway, the FEAP NextGen actions will develop in 2025 with a first capacity building dedicated to Young professionals of different horizons, communication actions such as the FEAP video series “Fantastic Fish Farmers” and more cooperation initiatives between FEAP and Young Aquaculture Professionals Networks.
The FEAP–Laschinger NextGen Award
The FEAP-Laschinger NextGen Award recognises exceptional entrepreneurship, business leadership, and innovation among young professionals in European aquaculture. Established jointly with Mr. Rudolf Laschinger, the award celebrates individuals who demonstrate initiative, resilience, and dedication to advancing aquaculture production. In 2025, this first edition awarded Mr Josef Stier’s, a young aquaculture producer who developed a modern indoor fish farm in Bärnau, Germany. His innovative, holistic production concept is a prime example of sustainable and responsible food production and deserves recognition through the FEAP–Laschinger NextGen Award.
More information about Stier Fische – Fischzucht in Bayern und Baden Württemberg
FEAP NEXTGEN DEEP DIVE 2: Calling our next generation of applicants!
FEAP is opening its second call for young aquaculture and fish farming professionals across Europe, to join a two days training in Brussels on March 17th and 18th 2026.
With this new training opportunity, FEAP wants to help young professionals better understand the role of EU level institutions, lobbies, networks, but also how to have a transformative impact on the future of fish farming in Europe, from farm to associations.
Who is it for? Fish farmers and aquaculture professionals under 45, eager to learn about Brussels institutions, ready to exchange in English. 10 participants will be selected to attend the training.
FEAP NEXTGEN ACADEMY: TRAINING#1
A Deep Dive into EU Institutions
FEAP successfully organised a two-day training course for young fish farming professionals across Europe in Brussels on March 25 and 26, 2025.
Over a hundred applications, 15 participants were selected to:
- gain insights into the role of the EU institutions and the decision-making process;
- understand the dynamics of lobbying , networking and advocacy;
- learn how to create a tangible impact, from farm-level to associations and policies.
This unique opportunity offers the participants the opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals across Europe, help them in their careers, and open opportunities for their professional development.
Read our Press Release
