Maritime Assistance Program
Forecasted
Maritime Assistance Program supports Ohio public port authorities with terminal planning, infrastructure, and equipment projects to increase cargo efficiency or capacity and address supply chain needs.
Funder: Ohio Department of Transportation
Due Dates (Anticipated): December 2026 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Funding subject to biennial appropriations; at least $1 match per grant dollar required
Summary: Supports Ohio port authorities with planning, design, acquisition, and infrastructure projects that increase maritime cargo terminal efficiency or capacity.
Key Information: Applicants must qualify through terminal ownership, an owner co-application, or the specified opportunity-zone pathway.
Description
The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) Maritime Assistance Program funds eligible Ohio public port authorities undertaking improvements to maritime cargo terminal operations. It supports planning, design, land acquisition, site development, infrastructure construction and repair, and cargo-handling equipment. The program focuses on facilities that handle, store, and transfer goods and commodities transported by vessel as part of a transportation process.
Projects are evaluated on their potential to increase terminal efficiency or capacity, introduce new cargo types or increase cargo volume, and address supply chain needs or benefit Ohio firms engaged in international trade. Created through House Bill 166 by the 133rd Ohio General Assembly, the program is administered by ODOT under Ohio Revised Code Section 5501.91, with funding subject to appropriation in each biennial budget.
