DEP-BAW-NOI-2026-mattress social enterprise (MSE) pilot grant program-announcement only

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) is seeking grant proposals for a Mattress Social Enterprise (MSE) Pilot Grant Program focused on developing an employment social enterprise impact program for mattress recycling services. The primary objective is to create job opportunities for individuals facing employment barriers through mattress recycling work. Eligible non-profit entities must have a five-year history of providing mattress recycling services as an Operational Services Division approved state vendor and demonstrate substantial compliance with federal and state environmental laws. Key deliverables include establishing a mattress recycling program that fosters job security and provides meaningful employment opportunities. The grant opportunity requires all proposals to be submitted via email to Greg Cooper (greg.cooper@mass.gov) in PDF format by December 9, 2025, with questions due by December 1, 2025, and responses expected to be posted on COMMBUYS by December 4, 2025. All reimbursable work must be completed by June 30, 2026, with final reports due within thirty days of the grant period's conclusion. MassDEP reserves the right to conduct site visits with successful applicants to review program progress and assess compliance with grant terms.

The grant is exclusively available to non-profit entities registered in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, with no specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises mentioned. However, the evaluation criteria will rank proposals higher if matching funds are provided. The maximum grant award is $500,000, with MassDEP retaining the right to award one or more grants for amounts less than the maximum. Funding is contingent on appropriations from the FY2026 State Budget line-item 2200-0107. Grant funds will be distributed on a reimbursement basis only for expenses incurred after a signed grant agreement, and all purchases will require proof of payment and receipts. Successful grantees must submit a W-9 Form and agree to the Commonwealth's Standard Terms and Conditions prior to award issuance. Additionally, any equipment or resources purchased through the grant will remain the property of the grantee, emphasizing the program's focus on building sustainable infrastructure for mattress recycling and employment support.