Artisanal shipbuilding is based on traditional knowledge applied to various fishing practices, with the integration of culture passed down from generation to generation by those who find their livelihood and identity in small-scale fishing, by those who find their family’s livelihood in the sea. One of the challenges found in this theme refers to the relationship between modernization and tradition. In this context, CONFREM understands that the main way to apply a good strategy of modernity in small-scale fishing depends on the improvement of the national artisanal fleet, with the development of new materials for building vessels, development of equipment that assist and facilitate artisanal work, with a focus on optimizing fishing processes, on the strategic use of fishing resources and on improving the quality of life of small-scale fisherfolk. This project aims to develop and enable the production of vessels and strategic equipment for small-scale fishing by the fishing communities of Rio de Janeiro, valuing traditional knowledge in meeting the needs of small-scale fisherfolk. In this sense, the project intends to develop modern shipbuilding techniques; structure a shipyard-school; train small-scale and interested fisherfolk and build vessels suited to the needs of the small-scale fishing activity. 

The strategy to achieve these objectives involves valuing different types of knowledge, safeguarding the traditional fishing culture combined with modern shipbuilding techniques, aimed at optimizing the small-scale fishing activity. Transversely, activities are planned to involve fisherfolk and interested parties, in addition to disclosing the progress of the project. Project management will be focused on the quality of technical execution, optimization of resources and compliance with the 18-month deadline proposed in the call for proposals. Direct training will be carried out for 30 fisherfolk and others interested in shipbuilding aimed at the needs of small-scale fishing, which will result in an alternative income for fishing communities, combined with the appreciation of the culture of small-scale fishing. At the end of the project, the expectation is that there will be fishing communities able to produce vessels and equipment suited to the needs of the small-scale fishing activity and that communities will be able to expand their capacity to sell production, as well as develop the potential for marketing these products and serve as an example for Brazilian small-scale fishing to develop equally and with quality.