PIDP Grants Guide

Jan 16, 2026

PIDP Grants: $450 Million for Port Infrastructure Development

The FY 2026 Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) makes $450 million available for projects that improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of goods movement through U.S. ports. Administered by the Maritime Administration (MARAD) under the U.S. Department of Transportation, PIDP provides critical funding for port authorities, local governments, and tribal nations seeking to modernize port infrastructure and strengthen supply chain resilience.

Program Overview

PIDP is authorized under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and codified at 46 U.S.C. § 54301. The program's goal is to assist in funding projects that improve the movement of goods through ports and their intermodal connections.

Key Program Details:

  • Total Funding: At least $450 million in FY 2026
  • Funding Opportunity Number: MA-PID-26-001
  • Assistance Listing Number: 20.823
  • Application Deadline: February 28, 2026 at 11:59:59 PM Eastern
  • Federal Agency: Maritime Administration (MARAD)

Who Can Apply

PIDP has a broad range of eligible applicants, making it accessible to various public entities involved in port operations and infrastructure development:

  • States
  • Political subdivisions of a State or local governments
  • Public agencies or publicly chartered authorities established by one or more States
  • Special purpose districts with a transportation function
  • Indian Tribes or consortia of Indian Tribes
  • Multistate or multijurisdictional groups of the entities listed above
  • A lead entity from the above categories jointly with a private entity or group of private entities, including port facility owners or operators

Note: Each eligible applicant may submit no more than one application. If multiple applications are submitted, only the last one received will be considered.

Eligible Projects

Projects must be located either within the boundary of a port or outside the boundary but directly related to port operations or intermodal connections. Eligible capital projects include those that improve the safety, efficiency, or reliability of:

Loading and Unloading Operations

Projects that enhance the loading and unloading of goods at ports, including marine terminal equipment upgrades and cargo handling improvements.

Goods Movement Infrastructure

Projects supporting the movement of goods into, out of, around, or within a port, such as:

  • Highway infrastructure improvements
  • Rail infrastructure upgrades
  • Intermodal facilities
  • Freight intelligent transportation systems
  • Digital infrastructure systems

Operational Improvements

Projects that enhance port operations, including those that improve port resilience against disruptions and operational efficiency.

Environmental Mitigation

Projects focused on environmental and emission mitigation measures, supporting cleaner port operations and reduced environmental impact.

Seafood Industry Infrastructure

Projects supporting seafood and seafood-related businesses, including:

  • Loading and unloading of commercially harvested fish and fish products
  • Seafood processing facilities
  • Cold storage infrastructure
  • Other related port infrastructure

Cost Sharing Requirements

PIDP requires a local cost share, with the federal share not exceeding 80% of total project costs. However, the Secretary may increase the federal share above 80% for:

  • Projects located in rural areas
  • Small projects at small ports (under 46 U.S.C. § 54301(b))

When calculating cost share, applicants should use this formula:

(PIDP Grant Request + Other Federal Funds) ÷ Total Project Cost = Federal Cost Share

Funding Restrictions and Set-Asides

MARAD must comply with several statutory funding restrictions:

  • Small Projects at Small Ports: At least 25% of available funding ($112.5 million) must go to small projects at small ports
  • Per State Limit: No state may receive more than 25% of available funding ($112.5 million)
  • Planning Projects: No more than 10% of funding reserved for Small Projects at Small Ports and no more than 10% of funding available to large projects
  • Small Project Maximum: Small projects at small ports are capped at $11.25 million per award

There is no minimum award size for PIDP funding, and except for the restrictions noted above, there is no maximum award size for large projects.

Key Dates and Timeline

  • NOFO Published: December 23, 2025
  • Application Deadline: February 28, 2026 at 11:59:59 PM Eastern
  • Obligation Deadline: September 30, 2030
  • Expenditure Deadline: 5 years after funds obligation for each award

Note: MARAD has indicated they intend to amend this NOFO to provide more details on application requirements. Check the PIDP program website for updates.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online by the deadline. Complete instructions will be posted at Grants.gov and the PIDP program website.

Application Tips

1. Start Early

With the February 28, 2026 deadline approaching, begin your application preparation now. Gather project documentation, cost estimates, and stakeholder commitments early.

2. Focus on Program Goals

Clearly demonstrate how your project improves the safety, efficiency, or reliability of goods movement through your port or intermodal connections.

3. Consider Small Port Advantages

If you qualify as a small port with a small project, you may benefit from the dedicated funding set-aside and potentially higher federal cost share rates.

4. Document Cost Share

Prepare documentation of your local match commitment and any other federal funds you plan to leverage.

5. Watch for NOFO Updates

MARAD has indicated they will amend the NOFO with additional details. Monitor the program website and Grants.gov for updated application requirements.

Contact Information

For questions about the PIDP program:

Related Resources

Explore our other guides on federal grant opportunities: