The Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) has announced 2023 funding for the state’s Offshore Wind Capital Expenditure Grant Program.
This US$1.6m programme will assist new or existing emerging businesses enter the offshore wind supply chain in Maryland by offsetting their capital expenditure investments.
Grant funds will be awarded on a first-come first-serve basis for qualifying proposals until January 1, 2023, or until all funding has been awarded, according to MEA.
Offshore wind remains a growing industry and grant funds are provided to awardees to offset capital expenditures required to enter the offshore wind supply chain.
Proposed projects must provide a positive net economic benefit to the state and local communities through job opportunities while encouraging diversity, inclusion, and equity in their business operations.
Proposed projects should also be designed to serve the larger US offshore wind market and related industries.
MEA calculates grant awards as 50% of the total project costs.
Grant awards may not exceed US$400,000.
Applicants must contribute at least 50% of the total project costs as matching funds or in-kind services.
The programme is open to emerging businesses, including minority-owned emerging businesses located in, or relocating to Maryland.
MEA strongly encourages emerging businesses representing and working to empower Maryland’s underserved communities (including minorities, women, and people with disabilities) and veterans of the United States Armed Forces to apply.