Right Whale Interaction Reduction Research Grant

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, through the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries (MADMF), is issuing a Request for Response (RFR) for a Right Whale Interaction Reduction Research Grant. The grant seeks proposals for research projects that aim to monitor the presence of North Atlantic right whales (NARW), analyze their co-occurrence with trap fisheries, and test innovative gear to reduce harmful interactions between NARWs and the lobster fishery. The key objectives are to fund projects that can make a substantial difference in protecting the endangered NARW population in a manner that allows fisheries to coexist. Eligible applicants include academic institutions, non-profit organizations, and commercial fishing operations. Proposals will be evaluated based on relevancy (40%) and execution (60%), and must follow specific format requirements. The grant awards will range from $100,000 to $500,000, with a total funding pool of $2 million available. Proposals are due by August 30, 2023, and grant recipients will be announced in November 2023. The contract term is 12 months, with the possibility of two 1-year extensions.

Small businesses and diverse suppliers are encouraged to participate, though these designations are not required for this grant opportunity. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is the sole funder for this initiative, which aims to support research that helps protect the endangered North Atlantic right whale population. Pricing information is not provided, as this is a grant program rather than a traditional procurement.