Sector Spark Grant Program

Overview

The Sector Spark grant program provides funding to Entrepreneur Support Organizations (ESOs) to enhance their capacity to deliver specialized support to tech-based startups in Massachusetts. 

Tech-based entrepreneurs and startups are at the forefront of developing new technologies that drive job creation and economic growth. However, they face significant challenges in accessing the specialized resources, mentorship, and support networks necessary for success. ESOs are crucial in providing these essential services but it is challenging to find funding to offer tailored support programs. This funding opportunity addresses this gap by equipping ESOs with the resources needed to build or scale specialized mentorship, accelerator, and support programs for tech-based startups in targeted industry sectors. 

Funding

This solicitation provides an opportunity for ESOs to access operating funds to design and deliver high-quality entrepreneurial programming as well as an opportunity to access capital funds to build or procure new and novel infrastructure, equipment or resources that directly aid in the execution of proposed programming and acceleration of sector-specific startups.  There are two funding opportunities available: 

1. Programming Grants  

• Funding range: Up to $200,000  
• Purpose: Operating funds to enhance existing or develop new startup program(s) that provide targeted support to tech-based entrepreneurs in key industry sectors.  

2. Programming + Infrastructure Grants

• Funding range: Up to $200,000 for programming plus up to $2,000,000 for critical infrastructure to support startups.
• Purpose: Operating funds to enhance existing or develop new startup program(s) plus capital funds to build or improve the infrastructure, equipment or resources necessary to effectively support the programming and the sector-specific entrepreneurs served.  

Eligibility

Qualified ESOs can be nonprofit organizations or public agencies offering various forms of support including mentoring, training, funding, networking opportunities and/or specialized resources for tech-based startups in Massachusetts. The types of organizations that may be considered qualified ESOs include, but are not limited to:

• Incubators
• Accelerators
• Innovation Centers
• Entrepreneur Networks / Associations 
• Economic Development Organizations
• Educational Institutions  

Priority Industries

Priority industries of interest include, but are not limited to:

• Artificial Intelligence 
• Bioindustrial Manufacturing
• Cybersecurity
• Defense & Aerospace
• Digital Health
• FinTech
• Quantum
• Marine Technology
• Manufacturing/Production Systems
• Robotics

Application Process

The application will be a two-phase process with concept papers of no more than seven pages in length submitted by September 23. Proposals must be submitted to proposals@masstech.org. Respondents are encouraged to read the Request for Proposals documentation carefully and conform to its requirements.

Informational Webinar

A question-and-answer information session was held on August 21 at 12:00 p.m. EST | View Recording (Video)

Timeline

Download Application Documents:

• Download NOFO No. 2025-JAII-02 (PDF) 
• Download Attachment C Budget Spreadsheet (EXCEL)
• Download Questions & Answers Document (PDF)