Maryland Build Our Future Grant Pilot Program: Fueling Tech Infrastructure

Grant Overview

Up to $2M in Matching Grants for Transformative Technology and Innovation Projects in Maryland

Donor: Maryland Department of Commerce

About: The Maryland Build Our Future Grant Pilot Program is a key initiative established in 2023 by the Maryland Department of Commerce to catalyze innovation across the state’s most critical technology sectors. This program provides substantial grant funding specifically for infrastructure projects, helping to build the physical foundation necessary for technological advancement and economic growth. The program is designed to support a wide range of entities, from private companies to non-profits and universities, ensuring that innovation can flourish in various organizational settings throughout Maryland. For those looking to understand the broader landscape of available funding, exploring different grant categories can provide valuable context.

Scheduled to operate for four years, concluding on June 30, 2027, the program has a dedicated fund of $7 million allocated for fiscal year 2026. This financial commitment underscores the state’s dedication to becoming a leader in high-growth industries. The core mission is to fund “hard” costs associated with transformative projects, such as acquiring, constructing, or equipping facilities that directly support innovation. This focus on tangible infrastructure helps bridge a critical gap for many organizations that have groundbreaking ideas but lack the capital for physical development. Entrepreneurs seeking to launch such ambitious projects can often benefit from expert business plan development to articulate their vision effectively.

Fostering a Diverse Tech Ecosystem

The grant targets twelve specific high-impact technology sectors, including Advanced Manufacturing, Aerospace, Agriculture, Artificial Intelligence, Biotechnology, Blue Technology, Cybersecurity, Defense, Energy and Sustainability, Life Sciences, Quantum, and Sensors and Robotics. This broad scope encourages a diverse and interconnected ecosystem of innovation. Projects that are encouraged include the development of specialized facilities like Wet Laboratories, Cyber Ranges, and Prototype Manufacturing Centers. Such initiatives are crucial for both research and workforce development, creating spaces for cutting-edge work and skills training. Businesses operating in these fields may find opportunities in other specialized funding programs, such as grants for for-profit businesses.

A significant aspect of the program is its emphasis on collaboration and economic impact, particularly for projects involving higher education. Grants awarded to colleges and universities are prioritized for projects undertaken in partnership with private industry or those that promise substantial economic benefits and the growth of entrepreneurial clusters within the state. This strategic approach ensures that academic research translates into real-world applications and economic opportunities. Organizations based in the region should stay informed about all Maryland funding opportunities.

Application and Funding Process

The application process is structured in two distinct phases to ensure a thorough and fair evaluation. Phase 1 requires applicants to submit an initial proposal outlining the project’s scope, its alignment with the program’s goals, and its potential for transformation. Successful applicants from this initial stage are then invited to submit a more detailed Phase 2 application. This second phase delves deeper into the project’s specifics, including a comprehensive budget, sustainability plans, and demonstrated ability to secure the required matching funds. Navigating this process can be complex, and applicants might consider professional grant writing services to enhance their submissions.

Funding is contingent on a significant matching requirement from the applicant. For grants up to $1 million, a 200% match is required, and for grants over $1 million (up to the $2 million maximum), a 400% match is necessary. This leveraging model ensures that state funds are amplified by private and other non-state investment, maximizing the overall impact of each project. Federal funds can be used as part of the match, but other state grant funds cannot. If you need assistance preparing financial documents or securing capital for your match, Grantaura offers a suite of services, from grant research to document preparation and application submission support, to help you succeed.

Focus: Infrastructure Projects, Innovation, Technology, Advanced Manufacturing, Aerospace, Agriculture, Artificial Intelligence, Biotechnology, Blue Technology, Cybersecurity, Defense, Energy and Sustainability, Life Sciences, Quantum, Sensors and Robotics

Region: Maryland, United States

Eligibility:
– Eligible applicants include private companies (including publicly held), nonprofit entities, local governments, and colleges or universities located in Maryland.
– Foundations affiliated with an eligible college or university may also apply.
– Applicants must be in good standing with the State of Maryland.
– Projects must support innovation in one of the 12 designated technology sectors.
– For colleges and universities, projects should be performed in collaboration with private industry or offer significant economic impact and entrepreneurship development.

Benefits:
– Matching grants of up to $2,000,000 per entity in a fiscal year.
– Funding is available for “hard” costs, including:
— Acquiring, constructing, or rehabilitating real property and buildings.
— Installing or improving infrastructure.
— Purchasing machinery, equipment, furniture, and fixtures.
– Fifty percent of the grant funds are delivered upon execution of the grant agreement, with the balance reimbursed after submitting documented expenditures.

Deadline: Ongoing

Terms:
– Matching Funds: Applicants must provide matching funds.
— For grants up to $1 million, the match must be at least 200% of the grant amount.
— For grants exceeding $1 million and up to $2 million, the match must be at least 400% of the grant amount.
– In-kind Contributions: These cannot be used as part of the matching funds. Matching funds must be new costs directly related to the project.
– Use of Funds: Grant funds cannot be used for indirect or “soft” costs like operating expenses, administrative fees, or salaries of new positions.
– Project Timeline: Grant funds must be expended within two years, and the project must be fully operational within two years from the date the grant award is executed.
– Facility Ownership: For projects involving property purchase or construction, the grantee must maintain ownership and not sell the property for at least three years from the grant award date.
– Application Process: The application is a two-phase process. Phase 1 applications are reviewed, and successful applicants are invited to submit a more detailed Phase 2 application. Phase 1 applications for FY26 will be available in August 2025.