Innovation Islands

The Boston Harbor Islands Partnership provides funding opportunities for community groups to design their own events and experiences through the Innovation Islands Grant program!

Help us bring YOUR community to the Boston Harbor Islands this summer!

Do you have an idea that brings arts, culture, science, place-making or community-building programming outdoors? Are you a community leader looking for a new outdoor venue for your event? You may be eligible for funding to make your vision a reality!

The Innovation Islands program awards grants of up to $5,000 to local community leaders and activators to design, promote, and facilitate programming on and around the Boston Harbor Islands. Grant comes with up to 200 additional free ferry tickets, planning consultation meetings with Boston Harbor Islands staff, and promotion on the Boston Harbor Islands website.

ELIGIBILITY & RUBRIC

Interested applicants should review the 2025 Innovation Islands Grant Rubric to confirm eligibility and familiarize themselves with how to submit a successful application.

Local individuals, community leaders, nonprofit organizations, and small businesses interested in engaging their constituents on Spectacle or Georges Island are encouraged to apply! While many of our applicants are non-profit groups, 501(c)3 status is not required. Groups are eligible to receive the grant for a maximum of 3 consecutive years.

The 2025 application cycle is open until February 28, 2025 at 11:59 pm. Decisions will be announced by the end of March.

PAST GRANTEES

Recursos en Español

 

Innovation Islands Grant Application

Submit your application for up to $5,000 in funding to bring your community to Boston Harbor Islands National & State Park.

Apply now

Innovation Islands 2023 Grantees

Learn about the local leaders and community groups planning vibrant Innovation Islands programs in the the park in 2023!

Learn More
Lion Dance on Spectacle

Thank you to our 2022 Innovation Islands grantees!

The inaugural year of Innovation Islands featured dance, music, learning, and other community excursions to the Boston Harbor Islands. Learn more about what our grant recipients planned in 2022.

Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Local individuals, community leaders, nonprofit organizations, and small businesses interested in engaging their constituents on the Boston Harbor Islands are encouraged to apply! While many of our applicants are non-profit groups, 501(c)3 status is not required to be eligible for funding. Groups are eligible to receive the grant for a maximum of 3 years consecutive years.

  • Innovation Islands proposals are currently being accepted for the following island locations:

    • Georges Island
    • Spectacle Island

    These locations can accommodate a range of programs and group sizes.

  • Funded programs will take place from late June to early September, though proposals for alternate dates may be considered.

  • If you still have questions after reviewing the program rubric and application, please contact: kmustafawidberg@bostonharbornow.org

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