Florida Boating Improvement Program (FBIP)

The Florida Boating Improvement Program (FBIP) is a financial assistance initiative designed to support boating access and related activities in Florida's coastal and inland waterways. Administered by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), this competitive grant program funds projects that enhance recreational boating opportunities for motorized vessels. Established under Sections 206.606 and 327.47 of the Florida Statutes, the program prioritizes construction and maintenance of publicly accessible boating infrastructure and initiatives that promote safe and efficient waterway use. FBIP funding can be utilized for a wide range of projects, including the development or improvement of public boat ramps, lifts, hoists, marine railways, piers, docks, mooring buoys, and associated amenities such as parking areas, restrooms, and utilities. Additional eligible uses include recreational channel marking, boater education programs, derelict vessel removal, and economic development projects that promote recreational boating. However, ineligible projects include those not directly related to motorized boating, facilities that impose discriminatory access restrictions, or general infrastructure unrelated to boating access. Eligible applicants are county governments, municipalities, and other local government entities in Florida. Private or nonprofit organizations are not eligible. Applications are evaluated on both technical and qualitative criteria, with additional bonus points awarded for projects in rural or high-need areas, such as counties with over 35,000 registered vessels. A critical aspect of the program is the reimbursement structure, meaning grantees must initially fund project expenses and submit documentation for reimbursement. While no cost-sharing is required, applicants offering cost-sharing through in-kind services or cash contributions may receive higher scores during the evaluation process. Applications must be submitted using the designated FBIP form and include a cover letter, detailed cost estimates, project timeline, supporting documentation, and legal authorization. Submissions are accepted during designated periods announced annually in the Florida Administrative Register, with the next application window set from February 3, 2025, through April 8, 2025. Completed applications must include both physical and digital copies and adhere to strict guidelines regarding format and required attachments. Late applications will not be considered. The evaluation process includes an assessment of completeness and scoring based on criteria such as project need, purpose, expected outcomes, and budget reasonableness. Grants are awarded to the highest-scoring applications until all funds are allocated. Unfunded projects may be reconsidered in subsequent cycles. To maintain eligibility, recipients must comply with all local, state, and federal regulations, provide regular progress reports, and ensure public access to funded facilities for at least 20 years. For further assistance, technical guidance is available via online sessions hosted by the FWC. Additional inquiries can be directed to the program administrator at FBIP@MyFWC.com or by calling (850) 488-5600.