Local Consumer Grant Program

The Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General administers the Local Consumer Program grant as part of its broader Local Consumer Aid Fund initiatives. This program is designed to support organizations that provide direct assistance to consumers at the local level, particularly in resolving consumer complaints and disputes. By leveraging local knowledge and community engagement, funded programs are expected to offer effective advocacy services that help individuals navigate consumer protection issues. The program reflects the Attorney General’s commitment to strengthening consumer protections across the Commonwealth and ensuring equitable access to assistance services. The grant supports Local Consumer Programs that operate within Massachusetts communities and are equipped to handle consumer complaints through outreach, advocacy, and education. These programs play a critical role in bridging the gap between consumers and regulatory systems by providing localized support. Funding is intended to sustain and enhance the capacity of organizations to deliver these services, particularly in underserved communities where access to consumer protection resources may be limited. Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong community ties and the ability to conduct outreach and engagement effectively. Grant awards are issued for a defined project period beginning July 1, 2026 and ending June 30, 2027. All awarded funds must be expended within this timeframe, and any unspent funds must be returned to the Commonwealth. Funding amounts are determined based on factors such as the geographic service area covered, the applicant’s demonstrated capacity to meet program requirements, and, for returning grantees, prior performance and reporting compliance. The Attorney General’s Office retains full discretion in determining award amounts and may choose not to fund applications in full or at all. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status in good standing with both the Internal Revenue Service and the Attorney General’s Non-Profit Organizations/Public Charities Division, as well as local governmental agencies and institutions of higher education. Nonprofits must comply with all applicable statutory requirements, including registration and annual financial reporting obligations. Applicants must also adhere to the Local Consumer Program Standards and Responsibilities, which govern program implementation, reporting, and allowable activities. Failure to comply with these standards may result in funding reductions, suspension, or termination. Applications were required to be submitted electronically through the Attorney General’s online grant portal by May 1, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Applicants were required to complete the full application within the portal and submit supporting documentation, including financial forms such as a W-9 and Electronic Funds Transfer form. The submission process required applicants to create or update an online account, and confirmation of submission was typically provided within two business days. The Attorney General’s Office encouraged early submission to avoid technical issues and required all applications to be submitted through the designated system. Applications are evaluated based on several criteria, including organizational capacity, demonstrated need, ability to comply with program requirements, and effectiveness in serving underserved populations. For existing grantees, past performance, including timely reporting and successful implementation of program standards, is also considered. Successful applicants are expected to participate in ongoing reporting and compliance activities throughout the grant period. Award notifications were expected to be issued in June 2026, with funding disbursed in installments contingent upon compliance with contractual and reporting obligations.

Applicants should demonstrate strong community engagement, capacity to meet program requirements, and ability to serve underserved populations. Prior performance and compliance with reporting requirements are important evaluation factors.