Request for Proposals Opens September 22, 2023
Maryland's Animal Waste Technology Fund (AWTF) is now accepting Fiscal Year 2024 grant proposals. Interested applicants should submit a Letter of Intent to the department by
October 25, 2023. Submissions will be reviewed and ranked by the department in consultation with the Animal Waste Technology Evaluation Committee. High-ranking projects will be invited to submit a full grant proposal by January 5, 2024. Additional details and instructions can be found in the
Grant Project Request.
What Qualifies as Animal Waste?
The department defines animal waste as “any waste stream generated by on-farm animals or through an animal production process involving Maryland livestock. Examples include dairy wastewater, poultry processing waste, and livestock carcasses. Eligible projects should demonstrate the potential to:
- Enhance public health and environmental well-being
- Offer alternative waste management solutions for the agricultural sector
- Have a positive economic development impact in the state
***Additional consideration will be given to projects that address climate and community benefits.
How Much Funding is Available?
Maryland’s Animal Waste Technology Fund has approximately $1.35 million available to invest in innovative technologies during the Fiscal Year 2024, which ends June 30, 2024. Funding support is provided by the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Trust Fund. Vendors, businesses, and individuals are encouraged to respond to this grant opportunity.
Background
Established in 2013, the Animal Waste Technology Fund provides grants to individuals, vendors, and businesses to showcase proven, innovative technologies for managing animal waste in Maryland. These technologies may reduce nutrient levels in animal waste, change its form or function for other uses, or generate energy and marketable products from waste. Please note that projects in the research and development stage are ineligible for this grant.
To help farmers protect waterways from excess nutrients and remain profitable, Maryland invests in innovative technologies that support new uses for animal waste. These include alternative product development and manure-to-energy projects that add value to the farm business model. Many of these technology projects may also provide climate and job creation benefits.
Updated September 21, 2023
