MOTT FY27 MASSACHUSETTS Destination Development Capital Grants

The Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism (MOTT), under the Executive Office of Economic Development, is soliciting applications for the FY27 Destination Development Capital Grants program, with proposals due August 11, 2026 at 3:00 PM. An optional informational webinar is scheduled for July 8, 2026, and written questions are due August 4, 2026 by 5:00 PM.

Eligible applicants are Massachusetts-based public agencies, municipalities, tribal entities, and nonprofit organizations with 501(c)3, 501(c)5, or 501(c)6 status that have been operational for at least 24 months, are in good standing with the Commonwealth and local jurisdiction, spend at least $15,000 annually on tourism-related items, and demonstrate diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.

The program funds capital improvement projects that enhance tourism infrastructure and destinations, including infrastructure improvements (additions, renovations, repairs, signage, parking and transportation solutions), facility upgrades (restroom facilities, ADA accessibility, systems replacements, garbage management), and design and engineering services directly connected to capital projects. Engineering or construction funding requests must be accompanied by a Climate Resilience Design Standards Tool Report.

The FY27 program will award $8,000,000 in total grants, with individual awards ranging from $25,000 to $1,000,000. Matching fund requirements vary: 50% match for grants between $25,000–$100,000; 75% match for $100,001–$250,000; and 100% match for $250,001–$1,000,000. Matching funds may consist of cash, in-kind contributions, donated land, design and engineering donations, capital equipment donations, municipal funding, or consultant time. Grant funds are disbursed quarterly on a cost-reimbursement basis for eligible expenses.

Evaluation criteria are vision and clarity (30%), alignment and partnerships (25%), ability to execute (20%), economic impact (15%), and policy priorities (10%). Additional consideration is given to projects enhancing climate resilience, relating to nature-based, agricultural, or rural tourism, or located within Designated Cultural Districts. Award recipients must participate in two one-hour virtual progress meetings annually with MOTT staff. All projects must be completed by June 30, 2029. Submissions are made through the Submittable portal only; no direct contact with staff is permitted.