We are excited to announce the launch of our new Environment & Climate One Stop (ECO One Stop). The application for the FY27 Planning Assistance Grants will be a part of the ECO One Stop, a new initiative created to simplify the grant application process for climate and environmental resilience projects in Massachusetts. By consolidating multiple grant applications into one streamlined process, the ECO One Stop allows applicants to apply to multiple grants through a single application.
A key component of this new process is the optional, but highly recommended, Expression of Interest (EOI) period. Submitting an EOI allows applicants to provide a summary of their project idea and receive early feedback from relevant grant program staff before the formal application period begins in early 2026.
- Expression of Interest Form: ECO Expression of Interest | Mass.gov
- Due: October 28th at 11:59 p.m.
Overview
Grants are available to the Commonwealth’s municipalities, and Regional - Planning Agencies acting on their behalf to support their efforts to plan, regulate (zone), and act to conserve and develop land consistent with the Massachusetts’ Sustainable Development Principles.
These Planning Assistance Grants are part of an effort to encourage municipalities to implement land use regulations that are consistent with the Administration’s land conservation and development objectives including reduction of land, energy, and natural resource consumption, provision of sufficient and diverse housing, and mitigation of/preparation for climate change. Funds help communities retain appropriate technical expertise and undertake the public process associated with creating plans and adopting land use regulations.
Priorities for Program spending include:
- Zoning for sustainable housing production, including zoning to address compliance with Section 3A of the Zoning Act (MBTA Communities) or any of the Housing Choice Best Practices (e.g. Accessory Dwelling Units, 40R Smart Growth Zoning, Transit Oriented Development, or Mixed-Use zoning);
- Mitigation of climate change through zoning and other regulations that reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions via a better mix of land uses, more compact growth, enhanced design, etc.; and
- Zoning that results in permanent land conservation (e.g. Natural Resource Protection Zoning or Transfer of Development Rights).
Past Grant Rounds:
FY18 Grants: $1,296,219 was awarded to 37 applicants
FY19 Grants: $1,030,659 was awarded to 31 applicants
FY20 Grants: $1,072,175 was awarded to 21 applicants
FY21 Grants: $1,153,000 was awarded to 29 applicants
FY22 Grants: $1,452,098 was awarded to 35 applicants
FY24 Grants: $1,397,556 was awarded to 26 applicants
Contact: Corrin.Meise-Munns@mass.gov