Capacity development for technology adoption in fisheries and conservation requires two-way learning

Capacity development is pivotal to meeting global development goals, as demonstrated by its prominence in the Sustainable Development Goals and other international agreements. Yet, despite this growing recognition, challenges persist in translating capacity development principles into effective, sustainable practices, due in part, to a limited empirical base to inform theory and implementation. This paper contributes to addressing this gap by examining the experience of Global Fishing Watch, a technology-focused non-profit supporting the use of satellite-based technologies and big data to improve fisheries monitoring and management. Drawing on three case studies in Latin America—a national authority managing a distant-water fleet, a transboundary initiative managing a biodiversity-rich marine corridor, and a multi-stakeholder response to foreign fishing fleet activity—we analysed the practical challenges and successes of technology adoption in these diverse contexts using thematic network analysis. We found that individual and institutional learning, sustained and flexible resourcing, and trusted partnerships were key enablers of effective capacity development and technology uptake. We also highlight tensions between innovation-driven interventions, formal institutional systems, and the dynamic realities of local implementation. The lessons shared here extend beyond the fisheries sector, offering insights for broader capacity development initiatives amid rapid technological change.