National Boating Infrastructure Grant Program (BIG)
Forecasted
National Boating Infrastructure Grant Program (BIG) supports South Carolina marina operators with projects serving transient recreational boats, improving places to dock, obtain services, and reach shore.
Funder: South Carolina Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates (Anticipated): July 2027 (proposals)
Funding Amounts: Tier I: up to $300,000 per project; Tier II: up to $1.5 million in federal funds per project
Summary: Funds South Carolina marina infrastructure serving transient recreational vessels at least 26 feet long.
Key Information: Applicants must contribute at least 25% of project costs and submit proposals to SCDNR, not Grants.gov.
Description
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service conducts the National Boating Infrastructure Grant Program, which the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) administers in the state. It supports construction, renovation, and maintenance of facilities for recreational vessels at least 26 feet long that visit for no more than 15 days. Eligible work can include slips, docks, mooring buoys, navigational aids, safe harbors, restrooms, utilities, and waste facilities.
The program addresses shortages of places for cruising boats to tie up, obtain services, or find shelter. Its goals include improving access to recreational, historic, cultural, natural, and scenic destinations; maintaining public access to shore; and strengthening connections between boaters and local communities. Funding may support only the transient-serving portion of a facility.
