Applying
Can applicants apply any other way than through the online form, such as a Word document, or mail in an application?
The online form is the only way we can accept applications. Support documents must be emailed to MDARGrants@mass.gov. If the required documents are not sent, an application will not be eligible for consideration. Please refer to the RFR for the required documentation for each Project Category.
Do I have to provide multiple quotes for the project to be considered?
Applicants must provide quotes as part of their application. However, multiple quotes are not required for the same project.
Can I reach out about specific projects and if they are a fit for the grant?
Unfortunately, we are not able to answer questions regarding specific projects. We recommend reviewing the RFR, the example projects listed, as well as the goals of the program and aligning your proposed project based on the information provided.
Is it possible to save my application and continue working on it at a later time?
Yes, applicants can save and continue their work. However, we recommend reviewing the Application Form – Attachment A in the RFR listed under ‘Downloads’ before starting your application.
Will I receive a confirmation email after submitting my application?
No. The system does not send a separate confirmation email after submission. Once you submit your application, the system will display a message confirming that your application has been successfully submitted.
Do I have to use the Budget Form available on the CSAP website?
A Budget Form template is available under ‘Downloads’, however applicants are not required to use this specific form. Please note that to be eligible for consideration under the Program a budget is required for all submissions, and we recommend either using either the form provided, or provide a budget in a similar format. There is a budget template available for each Project Category (Food Safety, Environment, Compost, and Energy).
Do I have to complete all the answers through the on-line application? For example, if I wanted to email the timeline as a separate document, is that allowed?
Answers should be completed through the online application. Please do not send separate documents for questions that can be completed through the online application.
General Eligibility
If I have applied to and have been funded under MDAR grants in the past, am I eligible to apply again? What if I have a current contract that has not been completed yet?
Yes, you are eligible to apply again. This includes if you have a current contract.
If I don’t have a written lease agreement, am I eligible to apply?
Yes, you are eligible to apply. However, if your proposed project is selected for funding, some type of written documentation will be required that shows the legal relationship between the parties to ensure the correct entity/individual who legally owns the property is allowing the proposed project to be completed on their land. The lease should include things like a description of the property, type of use(s) allowed, duration, and signatures of the parties involved, including the landowner.
Are non-profits eligible to apply?
Yes, non-profits are eligible to apply as long as the meet the defined eligibility requirements listed.
Budget
How do I calculate the required 20% match?
The match for each Project Category is a minimum of 20% of the total project costs. For example, if the total project costs are $45,000 for a Food Safety project – the match would be $9,000 and the eligible requested amount would be $36,000.
Can the required match be in-kind? Can I use other grant funding towards it?
The match must be a cash-match and can not be in-kind. Additional grant funding can be used towards the match as long as it is not other state grant funds.
For solar photovoltaic projects, the RFR says a maximum of $2,000 a kWh – are we eligible for more than the $50,000?
No, the maximum award amount for energy projects is $50,000.
For energy projects, can I also apply to USDA’s Renewable Energy for American Program (REAP)?
Yes, applicants can also apply for and be funded by REAP and CSAP for energy projects. The final award will take into consideration the multiple funding sources.
Can the costs of shipping, and installation be included in the request?
Yes, the costs of shipping and installation can be included in the total project costs.
Funding Process
When do you estimate awards will be released?
We estimate that awards will be released by August of 2026.
Will the award amounts be taxable?
Applicants may receive a 1099-G for funding received under the CSAP. MDAR cannot give any tax advice and applicants should reach out to a tax professional for questions regarding the implications of receiving this funding.
How will MDAR distribute the funding?
Applicants who are receiving funding will be required to enter into a contract with the Department before receiving funding. This includes documentation such as a Standard Contract Form, a W-9, and an Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) Form. More information about the required documentation is outlined in the RFR.
Can I start the project (purchase what I am applying for) before awards are made?
No, applicants that start a project or incur costs outside of a contract with the Department are not eligible for reimbursement under the grant.
Will there be any extensions if I am unable to complete the project by June 30th, 2027?
Projects are required to be completed by June 30th, 2027 with no options for extensions.
Eligible Projects
Are trucks eligible under the Program? What if they are needed to get to aquaculture sites?
As stated in the Request for Response (RFR), this grant does not support the purchase of non-agricultural equipment, including vehicles that are not strictly used for agricultural production. While we understand that a truck may a supportive role in farm operations, it is considered an indirect asset because it typically serves multiple purposes beyond the scope of on-farm food production – rather that being directly tied to a specific, measurable enhancement in practices on the farm.
What projects are ineligible under this grant program?
For a full list of ineligible projects and expenses, please refer to the RFR available under 'downloads'.
Contact
| Date published: | March 6, 2026 |
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| Last updated: | March 9, 2026 |