Island Institute Spark! Grants

Spark! Grants fund working waterfront energy projects that improve energy efficiency, switch to renewable energy, and/or reduce consumption of fossil fuels. We are currently prioritizing applications to fund working waterfront projects for shoreside charging infrastructure, shoreside renewable energy generation, marine electrification, energy efficiency, and weatherization, with a particular focus on communities that are highly dependent on lobstering and under-resourced to address climate change. Other projects may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Projects with environmental and financial benefits that are highly visible within the community and/or marine sector are more likely to receive funding. Applicants can receive up to $4,000 per fiscal year (July–June). For-profit businesses, non-profit organizations, municipalities, and tribal governments are welcome to apply. For-profit businesses require a 50% match of funding, i.e., if a business has a $4,000 project, they may be funded for up to but not exceed $2,000. The match requirement may be waived for financial needs or new technology applications. Past projects have supported the purchase of: • Heat pumps. • Solar panels. • EV and shoreside charging stations. • Electric propulsion outboard motors. • Weatherization materials or services: insulation, air sealing, window inserts, etc.