MARAD opens $488.6M Port Infrastructure Development Program grants

Applications for Port Infrastructure Development Program grants totaling $488.6 million are currently open. Also, these federal funds are managed through the U.S. Maritime Administration. This funding helps modernize how goods move through maritime hubs. For instance, the program targets the rail and highway networks that connect them. Interested parties must submit their proposals by the June 26 deadline.

Updated priorities for Port Infrastructure Development Program grants

MARAD officials identified safety, efficiency, and reliability as the core benchmarks for selection. In addition, the program covers seafood industry support and environmental mitigation.

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These grants also fund port resiliency measures. Separately, USDOT policy mandates a specific reservation for small ports. At least 25% of the available pool is strictly reserved for small projects at small ports.

New criteria for maritime infrastructure applications

A recent amendment altered the program’s scope last week. This change followed the original funding notice from December 23, 2025. For example, Progressive Railroading reported an increase in total financial assistance. Still, the update also refined the rubrics used to evaluate each application. Selection priorities now favor innovative technology and national multimodal freight goals. Additionally, projects within Qualified Opportunity Zones receive higher value.

The updated NOFO removes workforce development as a selection factor. At the same time, the program focuses on the physical movement of goods. These adjustments improve port systems and their various intermodal connections.

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