A unique opportunity for early-career aquaculture professionals to understand how EU institutions and policy networks shape the future of fish farming.

RootLinks is pleased to share the 2026 call for participants for FEAP’s NextGen Deep Dive, a two-day intensive training in Brussels designed to equip Europe’s emerging aquaculture professionals with a strong understanding of EU-level decision-making, advocacy dynamics, and the broader policy ecosystem influencing sustainable fish farming.

Organised by FEAP – the Federation of European Aquaculture Producers, the Deep Dive brings together young professionals from across Europe to explore how institutions, lobbies, networks, and associations interact to shape the sector’s regulatory and innovation landscape. The programme combines institutional visits, workshops with leading experts, group work, and informal networking creating a practical, systems-level learning experience that strengthens both personal careers and the wider aquaculture community.

Participants will gain:

  • Entry into a knowledge-driven, European-wide community of aquaculture practitioners
  • Cross-country professional connections supporting long-term career development
  • Firsthand exposure to EU institutions and Brussels-based stakeholders
  • Skills to better influence and contribute to the future of European fish farming

Programme highlights:

  • Meetings with EU institutional representatives and Brussels aquaculture actors
  • Expert-led workshops
  • Group analysis and reporting activities
  • Informal networking sessions designed to build lasting connections

Eligibility requirements:

  • Age 25–45
  • Professional background in aquaculture production, marketing, associations, supply chains, research, or policy
  • Basic English proficiency
  • Ability to travel to Brussels (arrival 17 March morning; departure 19 March)
  • Mandatory contact with their national fish farming association (FEAP member) for endorsement

Costs covered by FEAP:

  • Travel to/from Brussels and local transport
  • Accommodation (two nights)
  • Dinner on 17 March & lunch on 18 March

Important dates:

  • 16 January 2026 – Application deadline
  • 9 February 2026 – Notification of selected participants

This inclusive programme welcomes diverse profiles across the fish farming sector. A maximum of 10 candidates will be selected based on a motivational letter and a short video introduction.

Apply or learn more through the form link here.