Maryland's Animal Waste Technology Fund (AWTF) will evaluate program needs during Fiscal Year 2025 to ensure future AWTF projects deliver climate and community benefits as well as water quality improvements. No funding cycle will occur this fiscal year. Please check the website regularly for updated program information. A funding cycle is planned for Fiscal Year 2026.
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?
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 16, 2024
