Port Infrastructure Grant

The Port Infrastructure Request for Proposals 6041 is administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, a public authority responsible for advancing clean energy and economic development initiatives across New York State. This funding opportunity is designed to strengthen the state’s offshore wind supply chain by investing in maritime port infrastructure that can support both offshore wind activities and diversified commercial uses. The program reflects a strategic effort by the state to position itself as a leader in offshore wind development while ensuring long-term economic resilience through multi-use port capabilities. The primary objective of this funding opportunity is to support maritime port development and improvement projects at existing port sites within New York State. Projects are expected to enhance the ability of ports to handle offshore wind-related activities such as manufacturing, staging, logistics, and vessel servicing. At the same time, applicants must demonstrate that proposed improvements can serve additional commercial purposes beyond offshore wind to mitigate risks associated with market fluctuations. Eligible projects may range from large-scale upgrades supporting industrial manufacturing to smaller enhancements that enable logistics or repair operations. Funding for this program totals up to 300000000 dollars, with individual awards capped at 100000000 dollars per project. Grant funding may cover up to 75 percent of total project costs, requiring a minimum 25 percent match from applicants. Funds are disbursed on a reimbursement basis tied to project milestones, including commencement of construction, substantial completion, and ongoing commercial operation. The final portion of funding is distributed incrementally over a five-year period following commercial operation, contingent on continued facility use and efforts to attract offshore wind industry participants. Eligibility is limited to projects located in New York State that involve existing port infrastructure, as greenfield sites are not eligible. Applicants may include companies, organizations, institutions, or partnerships that have ownership or control over the proposed port site. Projects must demonstrate readiness to begin construction within two years of award and must have a total project cost of at least 1000000 dollars. Additionally, proposals must clearly show how the project will advance offshore wind capabilities while maintaining flexibility for other commercial uses. The application process requires submission through NYSERDA’s online Salesforce portal, with detailed proposal components including project overview, financial plan, site design, economic impact analysis, risk assessment, and supporting documentation. Applicants must also complete several required forms such as certification documents, disclosure statements, and data templates. Evaluation criteria focus on value proposition, project viability, team qualifications, and community support, with emphasis on economic impact, job creation, and alignment with state energy goals. This funding opportunity operates as a multi-round solicitation with up to five rounds of submissions. Initial proposals were due in April 2026, with subsequent rounds scheduled through November 2027. Each round has a firm submission deadline at 3:00 PM Eastern Time. Awards are expected to be announced approximately two months after each submission deadline, followed by contract negotiations and execution. The program allows flexibility in funding allocation across rounds, with unused funds potentially carried forward to future rounds. Recipients of funding must comply with various program requirements, including quarterly progress reporting, prevailing wage standards, and efforts to source structural iron and steel domestically. Additional obligations include maintaining project timelines, meeting operational milestones, and adhering to contractual performance standards. Failure to meet these requirements may result in funding reductions or repayment obligations. The program is structured to ensure accountability while supporting long-term infrastructure development that benefits New York’s workforce and economy.

Emphasize multi use functionality and clear offshore wind alignment; demonstrate strong financial plan and readiness; provide credible economic impact and job creation estimates; ensure compliance with funding and construction timeline requirements