ANNAPOLIS, MD—Maryland has launched a new digital platform to manage capital grants, replacing a “cumbersome, manual-reliant process” with a modernized system that will be used to administer billions of dollars in grants over the coming years.

The new system was designed by Submittable and will manage all grants authorized beginning in 2017, according to a news release.

The Maryland Department of General Services (DGS) manages the disbursement of billions of dollars in grants each year on behalf of the Maryland Board of Public Works. The Maryland General Assembly approves grants to local governments, nonprofits, arts organizations, and others to support capital construction projects statewide.

The new system will ensure funds are distributed efficiently to more quickly support Maryland’s communities, the state said. Improved accessibility, transparency, and accountability enhance public trust in grant management.

“This administration is choosing to sweat the details of leadership and today’s action will ensure that investments we are making in every corner of our state are administered efficiently and as quickly as possible,” Governor Wes Moore said in a press release. “This is what good government looks like — and we’re just getting started.”

DGS Secretary Atif Chaudhry said the new system marks “a significant leap toward a more user-friendly, transparent, and efficient grant management process.”

“This will ensure that the funds reach Maryland communities faster and with greater accuracy,” he said.

Key benefits of the new system include simplified grant management, real-time updates, streamlined processes, and enhanced accessibility, according to the state.

The self-service portal will reduce the administrative burden for grant recipients, and automated workflows will ensure submissions move smoothly through the review process, reducing bottlenecks and preventing unnecessary delays.

Grant submitters will access real-time status updates, streamlining follow-up inquiries and ensuring accountability during the grant process.

The system also supports assistive technology, making it accessible to all users, including those with disabilities.

Maryland Association of Counties Executive Director Michael Sanderson expressed gratitude for the streamlining of public projects across the state. “A modern process will help us get funding out the door, and put to work.”

Maryland Nonprofits President and CEO Heather Iliff said the old system has caused construction delays and increased costs for nonprofits.

“We are grateful that the state is investing in the systems we need for a 21st century capital grants program,” she said.

This article was written with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a human editor.

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