Ocean Innovation Network- Track 1: Development and Operation of OceanTech Testing Facilities and Sites RFP Grant

The Ocean Innovation Network Program, led by the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC), aims to foster the commercialization of marine science and technology. It offers funding for the development and operation of OceanTech testing facilities, enhancing collaboration among businesses and institutions. This initiative supports various stages from design to initial operations, ensuring accessible testing environments for ocean technologies, ultimately driving innovation and competitiveness in the marine sector.

The Ocean Innovation Network Program will provide competitive funding for assets and initiatives that will strengthen the route to commercialization for start-ups and early stage companies working in marine science and technology and promote and connect organizations and entities to further grow existing clusters of businesses, suppliers, and associated institutions fostering mutual growth, innovation, and competitiveness through collaboration. Through this Request for Proposals, MassCEC is seeking applicants to MassCEC’s Ocean Innovation Network Program for funding through grants and service agreements in two complimentary program tracks:

• Track 1: Development and Operation of OceanTech Testing Facilities and Sites

In this track, MassCEC seeks to advance the development of ocean testing and product validation sites, covering a range of archetypes from dockside test sites to open-ocean test beds. Cost-shared funding will be made available for:
Design, engineering, permitting, construction, deployment, and commissioning costs to create, improve, or expand access to facilities that enable testing and validation of ocean technology in representative ocean environments;Initial phase of operations and maintenance (18-24 months) for the funded sites/facilities