This program is currently accepting applications.
Through this program, the MLSC is particularly seeking to enhance and/or expand training programs that address critical skills and talent supply gaps facing the state’s life science industry.
Applicants must use funds to implement workforce development programs that lead to careers in the life sciences industry. Funding must be requested to support training that prepares students with skills needed for life sciences careers. Programs must have a focus on skills training for high-demand occupations within the life sciences manufacturing sector (biomanufacturing and medtech / advanced manufacturing). If there are other skills related to careers in regulatory affairs, data science, clinical research support, lab support, facilities management, quality control and quality assurance, they will be reviewed and evaluated on an individual basis.
The “life sciences” are defined in the MLSC’s enabling legislation as “advanced and applied sciences that expand the understanding of human physiology and have the potential to lead to medical advances or therapeutic applications.”
Applicants must be a Massachusetts legally organized:
Click the button below to view the full list of eligibility requirements and evaluation process.
*Please note: The MLSC reserves the right to consider the applicant’s past performance in operating grants administered by both the Center and/or the Commonwealth and factor this performance into funding decisions. All applicants will be notified of their award status by email. In addition to the scoring system outlined, the Center reserves the right to only consider submissions that, in our sole judgment, are complete and responsive to the solicitation’s requirements and include all required application components. Additionally, the Center reserves the right to consider other criteria in making awards.
**Applicants must show signed letter of support from at least one industry partner that attests to the relevance of the planned program; partnerships may include providing curriculum design, advisory board participation, equipment donations, mentoring, job shadowing, guest speakers, and/or funding support; applicants may partner with new or existing industry collaborators to fulfill this requirement
The MLSC reserves the right to adjust the requested amount of funding for each proposal. Following execution of the Grant Agreement, funds will be provided via electronic fund transfer (EFT)–60% of total funding will be available immediately upon execution, with the remaining 40% available on a reimbursement basis after all necessary receipts (for 100% of expended funds) and reports have been received and upon verification of those costs.
Applications submitted by multiple entities collaborating on a proposal can request additional funds (costs must be identified separately). Budget must include an itemized list of equipment, materials, supplies, and/or technology with the estimated cost for each item. If applicable, budget must separate FY25 and FY26 expenses. The MLSC reserves the right to adjust the requested amount.
Through this solicitation, grants are to be awarded for Fiscal Year 2025 (end June 30, 2025), with the option to also request funding through June 30, 2026 as necessary.
One of the goals of Pathmaker is to serve as a stamp of approval on specific training programs that meet the most up-to-date industry criteria, thereby sending a strong signal to prospective career seekers. Pathmaker validation ensures that programs up to and including associates’ degrees receive a stamp of approval, affirming their alignment with industry standards and Pathmaker Core Competencies. This helps ensure top-tier quality in biomanufacturing education and industry readiness. Beyond applying for funding, training organizations can request to be validated if they are interested in partnering with the MLSC’s Pathmaker program as a training provider to help further the state’s life sciences workforce.
Yes, please do. You can use this online form to submit a request that your existing program be evaluated for Pathmaker validation. Existing programs can be successfully validated even if they are outside of the 8–10 week and 80 –160 hour guidelines required for Pathmaker funding.
While we would prefer the applicant use the duration guidelines, each program will be evaluated on an individual basis. The intent of the program is to support short introductory programs.
Yes, and the signatory should be someone with decision making authority over training partnerships and hiring needs, e.g. CEO, VP of HR, Director of Operations, etc.
Applicants are required to create an account prior to accessing the application. The program is accepting applications and will be reviewed, evaluated, and approved on a rolling basis.
