The 2035 Fund represents a new major investment in the future of life sciences in Massachusetts. Backed by the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center, the Fund is structured as a series of programs, each with its own focus area, providing companies, academic institutions and nonprofits several pathways to pursue funding and support. Together, these programs create new opportunities to accelerate innovation, expand infrastructure and fuel growth across the Massachusetts life sciences ecosystem.
Program Tracks and Funding Opportunities
Accelerating Research and Development (ARC Awards)
The ARC Awards accelerate translational research by connecting academic institutions with industry partners to address pressing life science questions. Eligible projects must include a postdoctoral hire and align with one of three tracks:
Award sizes are approximately $750,000 to cover direct costs. This program strengthens collaboration and workforce development across Massachusetts’ life sciences ecosystem. For more information on eligibility and requirements, visit the MLSC ARC Awards page.
Women’s Health Initiative
This program focuses on areas of women’s health that remain under-researched. For the current cycle, projects must focus on one of the following areas:
- Pregnancy-induced hypertension
- Perimenopause
- Menopause
Massachusetts-based nonprofit institutions are encouraged to apply with collaborative, impact-driven proposals. For more information on eligibility and requirements, visit the MLSC Women’s Health Initiative page.
Research Equipment and Infrastructure
This program provides funding for shared scientific equipment, core facilities and incubator space. The MLSC Research Infrastructure and Equipment Program supports not-for-profit institutions in Massachusetts seeking to enhance shared scientific resources in one of two tracks:
- Research Infrastructure
- Research Equipment
The program aims to strengthen the life sciences ecosystem by enabling access to critical tools and facilities. Awards for research infrastructure range from $1.5 million to $5 million, and awards for research equipment are anticipated to be up to $500,000. For more information on eligibility and requirements, visit the MLSC Research Infrastructure and Equipment page.
Frontiers Fund
The Frontiers Fund supports early-stage, high-risk translational research in historically underfunded areas of the life sciences. Massachusetts-based nonprofit institutions may apply for projects focused on one of the following fields:
- Antimicrobial resistance
- Microbiome science and therapeutics
- Orphan diseases
- Mental health and neuropsychiatric disorders
- Non-opioid pain therapeutics
- Health equity-driven solutions
- Medical devices
Awards are offered in three phases, which increase over time with the completion of progress milestones:
- Phase I: Feasibility and early data – up to $100,000 in capital funds and up to $100,000 in general funds for a one-year period.
- Phase II: Translational validation – up to $400,000 in capital funds and up to $200,000 in general funds over a two-year period.
- Phase III: Partnership readiness – up to $250,000 in capital funds and up to $100,000 in general funds for one year.
For more information on eligibility and requirements, visit the MLSC Frontiers Fund page.
BioBoost
BioBoost is designed to strengthen Massachusetts’ leadership in biomanufacturing and advanced medtech manufacturing. Companies applying must present a compelling case for long-term economic benefit, with particular emphasis on job creation, workforce development, and sustainable operations. This program is especially relevant for organizations expanding or relocating operations within the state. Beyond financial support, BioBoost is intended to build local capacity to attract additional investment and solidify Massachusetts as a hub of global manufacturing excellence.
This program will award:
- Up to three grants for direct manufacturing scale-up, ranging from $1 million to $3 million for projects lasting two years.
- Up to two grants for real estate developer evaluations, ranging from $250,000 to $500,000 for one-year projects.
For more information on eligibility and requirements, visit the MLSC BioBoost page.
Key Details for Applicants
- Deadline to apply: November 21, 2025
- Eligibility: Massachusetts companies and nonprofits, including academic and research institutions, may apply, depending on the program.
Conclusion
The 2035 Fund marks a transformative step for Massachusetts companies and nonprofits dedicated to advancing life sciences. This opportunity is poised to fuel growth and shape the future of the state’s life sciences ecosystem. The support offered through the various programs will help ensure that Massachusetts remains a global leader in scientific advancement and economic development.
Author: Raymond Jabagjorian | rjabagjorian@withum.com