Fiscal Year 2026 United States Marine Highway Program (USMHP)

The United States Marine Highway Program is administered by the Maritime Administration within the U.S. Department of Transportation. The program is authorized under federal statute to support marine transportation projects that provide alternatives to landside freight movement. Its core objective is to reduce congestion on highways and rail systems by shifting cargo to waterborne routes, while improving the efficiency, resilience, and sustainability of the national freight network. The program reflects federal priorities to strengthen multimodal transportation and expand the use of designated Marine Highway Routes. This funding opportunity supports projects that develop, expand, or promote Marine Highway Transportation services. Eligible projects may include capital investments, development-phase activities such as planning or feasibility studies, and broader transportation planning efforts. Projects must demonstrate that they contribute to reducing landside congestion, enhancing freight mobility, or increasing the use of documented vessels. The program emphasizes measurable outcomes such as reduced vehicle miles traveled, improved safety, and enhanced supply chain efficiency. Funding can be used for a wide range of project components, including vessel acquisition or modification, port and terminal improvements, equipment purchases, and preconstruction activities like engineering and environmental review. However, funds cannot be used as an operating subsidy and are generally restricted from supporting improvements outside the United States or certain facility construction unless justified as necessary. All expenditures must comply with federal procurement and administrative requirements, and projects are reimbursed after costs are incurred. Cost sharing is required for most applicants. The federal share typically may not exceed 80 percent of total project costs, meaning applicants must provide at least 20 percent in non federal funding. Exceptions may apply for Tribal governments and rural projects, which may receive a higher federal share. Matching funds must be clearly documented through formal financial commitment letters and must come from eligible sources such as state, local, or private funds. Previously incurred costs cannot be counted toward the match. Eligible applicants include state and local governments, metropolitan planning organizations, port authorities, Tribal governments, and certain private sector operators involved in marine highway services. Private applicants must secure endorsement from a designated Marine Highway Route Sponsor. Applicants may form partnerships or coalitions, but a single lead applicant must be identified and is responsible for compliance and financial administration. Each applicant may submit only one application. Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov and include required forms such as the SF 424 and a detailed project narrative. The narrative must describe the project scope, location, funding sources, and alignment with program criteria. Applications are evaluated based on merit criteria including project need, benefits, stakeholder support, and financial viability. Additional considerations include technical capacity, environmental readiness, and the use of innovative technology. The application deadline for this funding cycle is August 31, 2026. Awards are expected to be announced by late October 2026. Selected projects must meet federal requirements before funds are obligated, including environmental review under NEPA. Grant recipients must report on performance outcomes for several years after project completion. The program is competitive and may be repeated in future fiscal years depending on available appropriations.

Focus on clearly demonstrating project need, measurable benefits such as congestion reduction, and strong financial viability with committed matching funds; provide detailed performance metrics and stakeholder support documentation