Helping Hand Mini Grant

The Helping Hand Mini Grant is administered by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation’s Rail and Transit Division through the Massachusetts Regional Transit Assistance Program (MArtap). The purpose of this initiative is to support improved delivery of transportation services in rural and small urban areas throughout Massachusetts. The program is specifically targeted at enhancing the capacity and resources of eligible agencies by funding small-scale equipment and service upgrades directly related to transportation. Eligible applicants for this grant include organizations that are recipients or sub-recipients of federal transit programs such as Sections 5311, 5310, and the Mobility Assistance Program (MAP), as well as human service agencies that provide transportation services. While agencies based in urban areas are allowed to apply, the program gives priority to rural and small urban service providers. Awards to urban agencies are ultimately at the discretion of program managers and dependent on funding availability. In addition, applicants must comply with applicable Massachusetts General Laws, including the MBTA Communities Act, with compliance verified by the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities. The Helping Hand Mini Grant supports a narrow but meaningful range of expenditures. Eligible expenses include technology-related purchases (such as computers, printers, and fax machines), marketing materials, recruitment campaigns for drivers, community transportation surveys (excluding postage), safety tools, and vehicle accessory equipment like GPS units, tie-downs, and additional seats. Ineligible items include cell phones, monthly subscription services, postage, and operational costs like rent or salaries. Applicants must include two price quotes for each proposed item and submit a letter confirming the 10% local match requirement. If any item needs to be substituted due to procurement limitations, a written request for change must be sent to MArtap prior to purchase. All applicants are encouraged to utilize statewide contracts when purchasing certain items such as computers and office equipment. Applications must be submitted online, and any changes to proposed purchases must be pre-approved in writing before final acquisition. Assistance is available for organizations needing help in gathering quotes or requesting funding for unlisted but potentially eligible items. The maximum award available is $1,000, and a 10% local match is required, making the total purchase value $1,100. This grant is offered on an annual basis. The 2025 application period is now closed, and the next opportunity will open in Spring 2026. Contact for inquiries and support is available through MArtap at martap@state.ma.us or by phone at (877) 627-8271. Potential applicants are encouraged to subscribe to the MArtap newsletter for updates and announcements regarding future cycles.

Submit quote changes in writing before purchase; use statewide contracts where applicable; email MArtap for eligibility questions.