In a recent announcement, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) unveiled a Notice of Funding Opportunity, making $4.8 million available for Fiscal Year 2024 through the United States Marine Highway Program (USMHP).

Read also: MARAD Announces Nearly $20 Million in Funding Available for Small Shipyard Grants

The USMHP aims to enhance the movement of freight via America’s navigable waterways, presenting an efficient, sustainable alternative to road and rail transport. This initiative not only strengthens national supply chains but also reduces emissions and alleviates congestion.

Since its inception, the Marine Highway Program has distributed over $103 million to public and private organizations, fostering maritime transport options and funding essential freight infrastructure to bolster supply chain resilience.

The program’s evaluation criteria include the impact on goods movement, non-federal funding investment levels, project readiness, climate change and sustainability considerations, equity, and workforce development.

Applications must be submitted through grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. EST on July 12, 2024. For additional information, visit the USMHP website here. Potential applicants may also contact the USMHP staff via email at mh@dot.gov or by phone at 202-366-1123.