Request for Proposals: Ocean Innovation Network

MassCEC is seeking applicants to its Ocean Innovation Network Program, which will provide competitive funding for assets and initiatives that strengthen commercialization pathways for start-ups and early-stage companies in marine science and technology. The program promotes collaboration among organizations, entities, suppliers, and institutions to foster mutual growth and innovation within ocean technology clusters.

Track 1: Development and Operation of OceanTech Testing Facilities and Sites focuses on advancing ocean testing and product validation sites, from dockside test sites to open-ocean test beds. Cost-shared funding supports design, engineering, permitting, construction, deployment, and commissioning costs to create, improve, or expand access to facilities enabling testing and validation of ocean technology in representative ocean environments, plus initial operations and maintenance for 18-24 months.

Track 2: Ocean Innovation Network Support seeks to support and grow the ocean technology innovation ecosystem. Cost-shared funding is available for improving and enhancing co-work, office and maker spaces for start-ups and early-stage companies; providing business coaching and supply-chain networking; supporting industry engagement through events, workshops, roundtables and working groups; coordinating access and vessel transportation, technical support, and deployment logistics to test sites; conducting marketing, outreach, and promotional activities; and offering scholarships reimbursing startup companies for commercialization and in-water testing expenses.

Key dates include RFP release on May 16, 2025, questions with answers posted by June 6, 2025, proposals due June 30, 2025, award notification by August 15, 2025, deadline to spend Track 1 capital funds by December 31, 2026, and deadline to spend all other funds by December 31, 2028. Applicants must demonstrate a minimum 10% cost-share (financial or in-kind contributions). Applicants must be Massachusetts-based entities. The total award potential is $3,000,000.