Massachusetts Aquaculture Center Funding

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources is soliciting grant proposals from the state's Aquaculture Centers for projects to assist the Massachusetts aquaculture industry. The Department is looking to award multiple grants totaling $100,000 for projects to be completed by June 30, 2016. Eligible projects could include research related to Vibrio parahaemolyticus in shellfish, shellfish genetics studies, shellfish disease diagnostics, culture technologies, and finfish aquaculture/aquaponics outreach and research. Proposals are due by 5:00 PM on July 13, 2015 and must include information on the need addressed, project description, timeline, impact and measurability, and a budget. Proposals will be evaluated on completeness, significance of need, adequacy in addressing the need, measurability of impact, and quality of budget.

The RFR indicates that while matching funds are not required, any additional funding from other sources should be listed. The Department may ask for clarification on the submission requirements before awarding any grants. There are no set-aside designations or restrictions on the types of organizations that can respond, and no information is provided on any incumbent vendors or current contractors. The total available funding for this opportunity is $100,000.