Michigan Maritime and Port Facility Assistance Grants

The Michigan Maritime and Port Facility Assistance Grant Program provides financial assistance for maritime projects that strengthen Michigan's economic competitiveness, reduce the cost of freight transportation, improve reliability, and mitigate the environmental impact of freight movement. Established by Senate Bill 744 and House Bill 5291, the program invests in critical commercial marine infrastructure and port facilities across Michigan.

Eligible applicants include public or private owners, lessees, or controlling entities of commercial port facilities used for public purposes. Joint applications and public-private partnerships are eligible. Applicants must certify that they are compliant with all state and federal environmental regulations and have not received notice of violation within the preceding three years. Evaluation priority is given to projects that provide a funding match and to port facility owners that have achieved or are applying to achieve or improve Green Marine certification.

Grant funding supports capital improvements including harbor and channel dredging, seawall repairs, breakwaters, wharves, cargo terminals, warehouses, rail spurs, clean technology transitions, security enhancements, multimodal freight interchange facilities, and cargo handling equipment. Costs related to passenger marine operations, contract administration, refinancing of completed projects, and routine operating expenses are strictly ineligible.

To apply, eligible entities must complete MDOT Form 1487, attaching project layout plans or drawings, a detailed cost estimate, and an application merit criteria narrative not exceeding 10 pages addressing economic benefits, environmental improvements, public benefits, project readiness, innovation, and measurable annual goals. Completed applications and supporting documentation must be submitted electronically to MDOT Freight Policy staff.