Massachusetts Infrastructure Grants

This funding opportunity provides $5,000 to Massachusetts K-12 schools and organizations for creative projects in the arts, sciences, and humanities that engage students and promote equity and accessibility.

This program provides financial assistance to Massachusetts municipalities for the maintenance and improvement of unpaved roads, ensuring safe access for residents and emergency services in rural and underserved areas.

This grant provides funding to Massachusetts state and local public safety agencies to acquire advanced technologies for detecting and mitigating unlawful drone activities, particularly in support of security efforts for the upcoming Boston 2026 FIFA World Cup.

This program provides funding to municipalities and tribal governments in Massachusetts for the modernization and repair of small culverts to improve transportation, ecological health, and climate resilience.

This program provides annual funding to licensed community health centers in Massachusetts for infrastructure improvements, including construction, renovations, and technology upgrades, to enhance their services.

The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources administers the Food Security Infrastructure Grant Program to strengthen the local food system, enhance equitable access to locally produced food, and improve resilience to supply and distribution disruptions. The program connects farmers, fishermen, and local producers to markets and builds the infrastructure required to produce and distribute healthy food efficiently and safely. Eligible projects are capital in nature and may include equipment purchases, contracted labor for implementation, and planning and design costs directly tied to capital improvements. Projects must address systemic inequities and expand access to fresh local food while improving the resiliency of the Commonwealths food system. Maximum funding per applicant is 500,000 dollars in both agriculture and local food system tracks. Applicants may be individuals, for profit entities, nonprofit organizations, municipalities, or other governmental entities that can meet application requirements and enter into contracts with the department. The grant period runs from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025, and projects must be located within Massachusetts with benefits to residents statewide. Applications are due May 2, 2024. Additional information is available from the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources.

The Career Readiness and Educational Access Grant Program, spearheaded by the Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts, aims to bolster the economic well-being of residents within its 33-community region. This initiative aligns directly with the Foundation's broader mission to advance economic wellness by enhancing access to education and effective career development. The program's core objective is to prepare local residents for family-supporting jobs through targeted career-related training, post-secondary education, and other educational initiatives, thereby fostering a stronger, more skilled workforce in North Central Massachusetts. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are residents of North Central Massachusetts who seek to improve their career prospects and access higher education. The program's impact goals are centered on increasing educational attainment and career readiness, ultimately leading to greater economic stability for individuals and families. By focusing on critical areas such as scholarship programs, career exploration, and work-based learning, the Foundation seeks to create clear pathways to career advancement and ensure that residents are equipped with the necessary skills for in-demand jobs. The program prioritizes several key areas to achieve its objectives. These include funding scholarship programs that directly foster career pathways, initiatives that promote career exploration, and robust career navigation support systems. Additionally, the grant supports work-based learning programs that provide practical experience and intermediaries that connect stakeholders to essential career advancement resources and services. These priorities collectively form a comprehensive strategy to address various facets of career development and educational access. Proposals for competitive grants under this program are expected to adhere to specific principles that underscore the Foundation's strategic approach. Applicants must demonstrate a clear capacity for achieving and sustaining long-term impact, ensuring that investments yield lasting benefits. A detailed plan of action with evidence of its likelihood to achieve intended outcomes is also required. Furthermore, proposals must include measurable objectives and outcomes, alongside a robust plan for monitoring progress, reflecting the Foundation's commitment to accountability and data-driven results. This framework ensures that funded initiatives are not only impactful but also contribute to the Foundation's overall theory of change, which posits that increased access to education and career development opportunities will directly lead to improved economic wellness for the community.

This program provides matching funds to municipalities and nonprofit organizations in Massachusetts for projects that preserve and enhance the history and experiences of veterans.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations that provide essential services to Provincetown residents, particularly those with low to moderate income, in areas such as mental health, family support, housing, and services for marginalized communities.

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) is seeking a technical consultant and project manager for its On-Street Charging Program. This program, funded by American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds provided by the Healey-Driscoll administration in January 2024, aims to improve access to affordable electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure for residents in multi-unit dwellings. The core mission of the program aligns with increasing the supply of overnight curbside parking, with a strong emphasis on generating positive impacts for Low Income Disadvantaged Communities (LIDAC) within Massachusetts. MassCEC's overarching mission to promote wide-scale adoption of innovative On-Street Charging options across the Commonwealth is evident through this initiative. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are residents in multi-unit dwellings, particularly those residing in LIDACs, who currently face barriers to EV adoption due to limited charging infrastructure. The program is designed to address these inequalities by increasing access to on-street charging options. MassCEC also encourages the involvement of small and diverse MA-based businesses, including Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (Minority, Women, Veteran, LGBTQ, Portuguese, and/or Disability-Owned Business Enterprises), thereby fostering Massachusetts workforce development and ensuring meaningful compensation for these entities. The program's priorities and focuses include piloting innovative On-Street Charging technologies, models, and ownership structures in close collaboration with the MA Department of Energy Resources (DOER). A significant focus is on demonstrating successful deployments of these innovative solutions to encourage replication and scalability across Massachusetts. Additionally, the program prioritizes the development of resources for municipalities, empowering them to independently implement On-Street Charging solutions. Expected outcomes and measurable results include a demonstrable increase in access to On-Street Charging options, leading to a reduction in barriers to EV adoption for LIDACs. The program also aims to successfully pilot innovative On-Street Charging models that can be effectively replicated and scaled throughout the Commonwealth. Success will also be measured by the development of comprehensive resources for municipalities and the meaningful inclusion and compensation of small and diverse MA-based businesses, contributing to local workforce development. With a total funding of $11,250,000 available, MassCEC's strategic approach involves not only expanding EV infrastructure but also fostering economic growth and equitable access to clean energy solutions. The program's theory of change posits that by investing in accessible and innovative on-street charging, particularly in underserved communities, and by supporting local diverse businesses, Massachusetts can accelerate EV adoption, reduce carbon emissions, and build a more inclusive clean energy economy.

The Bliss, Gross, Horowitz Fund, established at the Rhode Island Foundation, is dedicated to supporting charitable Jewish community organizations that serve the greater Providence area. This fund aligns with the foundation's broader mission to enhance community well-being by specifically addressing the needs and fostering the culture of the Jewish community within the region. The grant program's overview emphasizes a commitment to strengthening Jewish life while also promoting connections and understanding with the wider Rhode Island population. The target beneficiaries for this grant are primarily Jewish community organizations located in and serving the greater Providence area, with an overarching goal to impact both the Jewish community and all Rhode Islanders. Impact goals include fostering connections between the Jewish community and other Rhode Islanders, deepening understanding of Jewish life and culture, providing essential human needs, and supporting the organizational development of Jewish institutions. Projects must be non-sectarian and reach beyond an institution's core constituency, highlighting a focus on broad community benefit. The program prioritizes projects that develop connections between the Jewish community and all Rhode Islanders through community service, those that deepen understanding of Jewish life and culture through scholarship and historic preservation, initiatives that provide basic human needs (food, clothing, housing, prescription assistance), and efforts supporting organizational development such as strategic planning, board development, and program evaluation. Capacity building requests require a scope of work. Capital requests are explicitly not considered, focusing resources on programmatic and organizational development. Expected outcomes include clearly stated goals, objectives, and measurable results from funded proposals. The foundation anticipates that successful organizations will demonstrate the capacity to implement their proposals effectively and outline clear sustainability plans. Ultimately, the grants aim to result in stronger Jewish institutions, increased community understanding, improved provision of basic human needs, and more vibrant connections between the Jewish community and the broader Rhode Island population. The foundation's strategic priorities for this fund revolve around fostering community connections, preserving cultural heritage, addressing fundamental human needs, and enhancing the operational capabilities of Jewish organizations. Its theory of change appears to be that by investing in these key areas, it can strengthen the Jewish community in Providence, facilitate greater integration and understanding with the wider population, and ensure the long-term vitality and impact of Jewish institutions in the region. The emphasis on non-sectarian projects that reach beyond a core constituency further underscores a commitment to inclusive community building.

The FY25 Firefighter Safety Equipment Grant Program is a $5 million fund aimed at helping fire departments across the Commonwealth purchase essential safety equipment that meets NFPA and OSHA standards, with applications open from September 19 to October 17, 2024.

The Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) Gives Back Grant Program, now in its second round for 2024, is an initiative by the Boston Athletic Association to support nonprofit organizations in Massachusetts. Launched in 2023, the program has already benefited 32 organizations, distributing $400,000 to date. This grant program is a direct reflection of the B.A.A.'s core mission, which is to promote a healthy lifestyle through sports, particularly running, with the overarching goal of building healthy communities. The program aligns with the B.A.A.'s strategic priorities by investing in local nonprofits that share this commitment to community well-being through athletic engagement. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are nonprofit organizations that are registered 501(c)(3)s or public agencies, are non-political, and are located in and serve residents of Massachusetts. These organizations must demonstrate a program that directly advances the B.A.A.'s mission of fostering healthy lifestyles through sports, especially running. The impact goal is to strengthen communities statewide by supporting initiatives that encourage physical activity and promote overall health. The program's priorities and focuses are centered on supporting organizations that use sports, particularly running, as a vehicle for community health and development. The grants range from $5,000 to $15,000 in this funding round, indicating a focus on providing accessible funding to a broad range of qualifying organizations. The B.A.A. emphasizes that organizations are eligible to receive funding once per calendar year, suggesting a commitment to sustained support for its partners. The expected outcomes of the B.A.A. Gives Back Grant Program include an increase in community engagement in healthy lifestyle activities, improved access to sports and running programs for Massachusetts residents, and the empowerment of local nonprofits to expand their reach and impact. While specific measurable results are not detailed in this description, the historical data of 32 organizations benefiting and $400,000 awarded statewide since inception serve as initial indicators of the program's reach and the B.A.A.'s theory of change—that by investing in local sports and running initiatives, they can foster healthier, more vibrant communities across the state.

This grant provides funding to Massachusetts schools and early education programs to promote food literacy and local food sourcing through initiatives like school gardens, cooking classes, and educational field trips.

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Technology Center (MassCEC) Commonwealth Hydro Program aims to increase energy production and reduce environmental impacts from hydropower facilities eligible for the Massachusetts Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard (MA RPS). The program provides funding for various projects, including construction, new technology deployment, relicensing, and feasibility studies for eligible hydropower generation facilities. The overarching mission of MassCEC, as implied by this program, is to advance clean energy technologies and promote sustainable energy practices within Massachusetts by leveraging existing hydropower infrastructure and encouraging innovation in the sector. The program targets a range of beneficiaries, including commercial, industrial, institutional, non-profit, or public entities that demonstrate long-term site control over project locations and water rights. The impact goals are centered on increasing the efficiency and capacity of hydropower facilities while simultaneously reducing their environmental footprint. This includes improving fish and eel passage, mitigating fish passage injury and mortality, and enhancing downstream water quality by increasing dissolved oxygen levels. Key priorities and focuses for funding include upgrades to existing hydropower facilities (e.g., turbine replacement, automated controls, improved fish passage), projects undergoing FERC relicensing to increase efficiency and reduce environmental impacts, the development of new hydropower facilities eligible for FERC conduit exemptions, and the deployment of advanced hydropower technologies such as fish-friendly hydropower and in-stream hydrokinetic power. Feasibility studies for these types of projects are also supported. Expected outcomes include a significant increase in renewable energy generation from hydropower facilities within Massachusetts, improved ecological health of waterways adjacent to these facilities, and the widespread adoption of more environmentally sound hydropower technologies. Measurable results would include the amount of additional energy generated, the number of successful upgrades and new facility deployments, and quantifiable improvements in environmental indicators like fish passage rates and water quality. While a specific "theory of change" or "strategic priorities" for MassCEC beyond the program's objectives are not explicitly detailed, the program's design clearly aligns with a strategy of investing in both the modernization of existing renewable energy infrastructure and the development of innovative solutions to address environmental concerns associated with hydropower. This approach suggests a belief that targeted financial support can accelerate the transition to a cleaner energy grid while ensuring ecological sustainability. The grant offers between $100,000 to $500,000, with a maximum cap of $300,000 or 50% of actual costs, demonstrating MassCEC's commitment to substantial investment in impactful projects. Eligibility criteria ensure that funded projects contribute to the state's renewable energy goals, maintain FERC compliance, and have a useful life of at least twenty years.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations and community groups in Brookline that provide programs for youth, particularly those from underserved or low-income families, focusing on areas like education, mental health, and leadership development.

This grant provides funding for organizations in Massachusetts and New York that support young individuals facing intellectual disabilities, learning disabilities, mental health challenges, or substance use disorders, with a focus on historically marginalized communities.

This grant provides funding for marketing initiatives that promote events in Provincetown, particularly those that attract visitors during off-peak seasons and enhance community collaboration and diversity.

The Museum on Main Street grant program is a collaborative effort between the Smithsonian and Mass Humanities, designed to bring world-class exhibits to six rural communities across Massachusetts. This initiative directly aligns with Mass Humanities' mission to foster a more informed and engaged citizenry by making humanities accessible to a broad audience, particularly those in underserved areas. By partnering with the Smithsonian, Mass Humanities leverages a national resource to enrich local communities, demonstrating a strategic priority of community engagement and cultural enrichment through accessible programming. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant are rural communities in Massachusetts, specifically those with a population of 12,000 or less, as defined by the 2020 US Census. The program aims to empower these communities to host the "Voices and Votes: Democracy in America" tour, thereby promoting civic discourse and understanding of American democracy. The impact goals include increased community engagement with humanities topics, enhanced local cultural programming, and a deeper connection to historical and civic themes within participating towns. The program's priorities and focuses revolve around community-rooted programming. Grantees are expected to not only host the "Voices and Votes" exhibit but also to create supplementary programming that resonates with their local context and addresses relevant community issues. This emphasis on tailored, local initiatives reflects a theory of change where broad national themes are made meaningful and impactful through local interpretation and application, fostering a sense of ownership and relevance among residents. Expected outcomes include robust participation from diverse community members in the exhibit and related events. Measurable results could include the number of attendees at the exhibit and associated programs, feedback from participants on their learning and engagement, and the development of new community partnerships. The grant's structure, offering $10,000 to host sites, enables these communities to invest in the necessary resources for successful program implementation, reinforcing Mass Humanities' commitment to supporting sustainable cultural initiatives at the local level.

The Swim Safe Access Grant, spearheaded by Mayor Michelle Wu, the Office of Human Services (OHS), and the Boston Centers for Youth & Families, is a critical initiative aimed at enhancing water safety and increasing access to swimming lessons for Boston families. The program's core mission aligns with public health goals to address the threat of drowning, which is a leading cause of death among children in the U.S. The grant seeks to mitigate this risk by providing free and easily accessible swim lessons, directly supporting a strategy proven to reduce drowning risk by up to 90 percent. This directly reflects a strategic priority of improving community health and safety through preventative measures, particularly for vulnerable populations. The primary beneficiaries of the Swim Safe Access Grant are Boston residents, with a specific focus on low-income families and socially and economically disadvantaged, historically underrepresented, or underserved groups. The program's impact goals center on improving water safety knowledge and skills among these residents, ultimately reducing the incidence of drowning. By making beginner-level swim programs free and accessible, the grant aims to lower existing barriers to access, ensuring that a broader segment of the community can acquire essential water safety skills. The grant prioritizes beginner-level swim programs operating within the city of Boston, emphasizing foundational water safety skills over intermediate or advanced instruction. Funding is specifically available for ongoing programs, explicitly excluding one-time events, to ensure sustained impact and skill development. Eligibility criteria further specify that applicants must be non-profit 501(c)3 tax-exempt organizations, with Boston Public Schools-affiliated entities encouraged to apply. Programs must also demonstrate either direct operation of an aquatics facility or a partnership with one that can accommodate the proposed activities. This focused approach reflects a theory of change that by investing in foundational, accessible, and sustained beginner swim instruction, a significant and measurable improvement in public water safety can be achieved across the city. Expected outcomes include a substantial increase in the number of Boston residents, particularly children from underserved backgrounds, who possess basic water safety skills. Measurable results will be tracked through regular reports on program outcomes, which award recipients are required to submit. These reports will provide data on participation rates, skill acquisition, and potentially anecdotal evidence of increased water confidence and safety awareness among participants. The total available funding of $250,000, with individual awards up to $49,999 per organization, underscores the program's commitment to supporting multiple community-based initiatives to achieve its broad safety and access goals.