Ocean Innovation Network Program

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Technology Center (MassCEC), a quasi-state economic development agency, has released a Request for Proposals (RFP) for its new Ocean Innovation Network Program (OSW-2025-02). The MassCEC is committed to advancing the Commonwealth’s clean energy goals by accelerating clean energy innovation and fostering inclusive economic growth. This particular program is aligned with Massachusetts’ broader climate and economic development objectives, including reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and strengthening the state’s position as a global leader in climatetech. The Ocean Innovation Network Program provides competitive grant funding through two distinct but complementary tracks. Track 1 supports the development and operation of ocean technology testing facilities and validation sites. Funding may be used for a wide range of capital activities, including design, engineering, permitting, construction, deployment, commissioning, and the first 18-24 months of operations and maintenance. Track 2 supports the broader ecosystem around ocean innovation. This includes capital and operational funding for Entrepreneur Support Organizations (ESOs) that offer workspace enhancements, business coaching, and supply chain networking. It also includes startup scholarships of up to $20,000 on a cost-shared reimbursement basis for commercialization and in-water testing expenses. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, universities, research institutions, and other entities registered to do business in Massachusetts with at least three years of operational experience. Federal and state entities, as well as private companies seeking to commercialize their own technology, are ineligible to apply directly. However, private startups may receive support through Track 2B scholarships administered by ESO grantees. Projects must ensure broad accessibility and cannot be restricted to a single organization. Proposals can involve partnerships, but one lead applicant must be designated. Applications are due by June 30, 2025, and must be submitted via email in a single PDF or Word file using the provided Attachment A application form. Required documents include financial statements, team resumes, and a signed signature page (Attachment B). MassCEC will respond to questions submitted by May 30, 2025, with public answers posted by June 6, 2025. Awards will be announced by July 15, 2025. Capital funds from Track 1 must be spent by December 31, 2026, while all other funds must be spent by December 31, 2028. Evaluation criteria include alignment with program goals, articulation of need, feasibility and readiness, anticipated impact, applicant qualifications, and overall value. Applicants must propose clear milestones and budgets and will be subject to quarterly and annual reporting. Track 1 is funded in part by ARPA and requires compliance with federal regulations, including a minimum 10% cost share. MassCEC will disburse funds on a reimbursement basis, tied to achievement of deliverables and milestones. All grantees must report on outcomes using a range of defined performance metrics.