Dredging Construction and Regional Equipment Grants

The Seaport Economic Council Dredging Construction and Regional Equipment Grants are administered by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Economic Development to support coastal infrastructure and maritime economic development. The Seaport Economic Council serves all 78 coastal communities in Massachusetts and plays a strategic role in strengthening the state’s blue economy, which includes commercial fishing, maritime transportation, tourism, and waterfront industries. This grant program represents a continuation of state investment in dredging activities following the discontinuation of a prior state dredging program, ensuring that coastal communities maintain navigational access and economic viability. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to provide capital funding for shovel ready dredging construction projects and regional dredging equipment purchases. These investments are intended to improve navigational access in harbors, enhance maritime safety, support economic activity, and promote coastal resilience. The program aligns with statewide priorities related to economic development, environmental stewardship, and climate adaptation. Projects funded under this program are expected to contribute to public safety, preserve working waterfronts, and support long term sustainability of maritime infrastructure. Funding is restricted to construction phase activities and capital expenditures directly associated with dredging and equipment acquisition. Eligible uses include dredging operations, sediment removal and transport, disposal costs, mobilization, marine construction services, and equipment such as dredgers, pumps, barges, and navigation systems. The program explicitly excludes pre construction activities such as feasibility studies, design and engineering, permitting, and land acquisition. Funding is provided through cost reimbursement contracts, meaning recipients must incur and document eligible expenses before receiving reimbursement from the state. Eligibility is limited to public entities located within Massachusetts coastal communities. This includes municipal governments, public harbor commissions, county commissions, and other qualified public entities. Joint applications representing multiple municipalities are encouraged, particularly for regional equipment projects that demonstrate shared benefits and long term operational sustainability. Preference may be given to projects that show regional collaboration, broad economic impact, and the ability to serve multiple jurisdictions. The application process requires submission of a complete proposal through the designated online portal managed by the Executive Office of Economic Development. Applicants must provide detailed project descriptions, construction schedules, budget documentation, proof of matching funds, permitting status, procurement strategies, and narratives describing public benefits and economic impact. Applications are evaluated based on criteria including applicant capacity, project readiness, economic and public benefit, environmental impact, budget feasibility, and regional significance. The funding opportunity opened on July 30, 2026, with a full application deadline of September 17, 2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. Applications will be reviewed in October 2026, with award announcements anticipated in Winter 2026. The performance period for funded projects may extend up to two fiscal years following contract execution. A minimum non state match of fifty percent is required, emphasizing shared investment between the state and local entities. For questions regarding the program, applicants may contact the Seaport Economic Council via email at seaportcouncil@mass.gov or by phone at 617 788 3610. Additional program details and requirements are outlined in the official Notice of Funding Availability document, which governs the application process and funding conditions.

Ensure project is shovel ready with permits advanced; demonstrate strong regional benefits and partnerships; clearly document matching funds and cost estimates; align project with economic impact and environmental resilience criteria