One of the most common questions I hear from terminal operators and port stakeholders is:
“We know what we need to upgrade—but how do we pay for it?”
The good news is that there is real money on the table right now for maritime terminals, port facilities, and related infrastructure. The challenge is knowing where to look and how to align your project with the right funding program.
Here’s an overview to help you get started.
Why funding opportunities are so strong right now
Federal funding for ports and terminals is being driven largely by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), which set aside billions of dollars to modernize maritime infrastructure, improve supply chain resilience, enhance safety, and support sustainability—including zero-emission equipment.
These programs apply to coastal ports, inland waterways, and Great Lakes facilities, and they cover everything from dock upgrades and cargo handling improvements to security and electrification projects.
Key federal funding programs to know
🚢 Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP)
Administered by Maritime Administration (MARAD), PIDP is the cornerstone program for port and terminal improvements. It supports projects that improve capacity, efficiency, safety, and resilience—and includes a set-aside specifically for small ports, which is often overlooked.
⚡ EPA Clean Ports Program
Funded through the Inflation Reduction Act, this program provides $3 billion for zero-emission equipment, shore power, charging infrastructure, and climate planning. It’s a major opportunity for terminals looking to modernize while reducing emissions.
🏗 RAISE & INFRA Grants (USDOT)
These highly competitive programs fund infrastructure projects with regional or national significance. Ports and terminals are eligible, especially when projects strengthen supply chains or improve multimodal connections.
🔐 Port Security Grant Program (PSGP)
Administered by Department of Homeland Security / FEMA, this funding focuses on protecting critical port infrastructure against security threats and improving preparedness.
🛠 Small Shipyard Grants
Also managed by MARAD, these grants support repairs, modernization, and equipment upgrades at smaller U.S. shipyards, which often play a critical role in local port ecosystems.
Where to track opportunities
Grant programs change frequently, so staying current matters. Two essential resources:
- Grants.gov – for active federal funding opportunities [use search words like ‘maritime’, ‘ports’, etc.]
- MARAD’s website – [https://www.maritime.dot.gov/grants-finances ] for port-specific programs, notices, and guidance
Why engineering matters early in the process
Here’s the part that often gets missed: strong funding applications are grounded in strong engineering.
Marine terminal engineering isn’t just about structures—it’s about understanding vessel traffic, cargo types, mooring arrangements, operational loads, and long-term asset performance. That’s where experienced engineering partners make a real difference.
NETSCo brings decades of experience in marine terminal engineering, from dock and mooring design to structural assessments and condition evaluations of existing facilities. Their team works closely with operators to identify practical upgrades, prioritize repairs, and develop solutions that are safe, efficient, and tailored to how a terminal actually operates—often providing the technical foundation needed to support grant applications and long-term planning.
If you’re thinking about terminal upgrades—whether for capacity, resilience, emissions reduction, or safety—now is a smart time to explore funding options and start aligning engineering, planning, and financing early.
If this topic is useful, feel free to reach out or share with others navigating the same questions.