Best Aroostook County Grants for Nonprofits in Maine

Nonprofit organizations, public schools, and qualified government entities in Aroostook County, Maine can use this grant to fund job-related classes and certification courses for their employees. Grants from TD Charitable Foundation help 501(c)(3) organizations serving low- to moderate-income and historically underserved communities, including those focused on financial literacy, education, housing, or business development, access up to US $1,000 for staff training.

Spectrum Digital Education Grants support nonprofit organizations in educating communities about broadband benefits and usage. These grants aim to bridge the digital divide, particularly for seniors and those with disabilities or ethnically diverse backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate community partnership, address specific needs, and provide measurable impact metrics. With a focus on financial feasibility and meaningful outcomes, this initiative ensures that underrepresented urban and rural communities gain access to essential digital resources, fostering long-term improvement in their lives.

Department of Business and Economic Affairs

The Department of Business and Economic Affairs (BEA) is the premier resource for businesses considering expansion in, or relocation to, New Hampshire, as well as people seeking a home in a place where they can balance their careers amid the natural beauty it offers.

Dedicated to enhancing the economic vitality of the state and promoting it as a destination for domestic and international visitors, BEA is comprised of the Division of Economic Development, Division of Planning & Community Development, and the Division of Travel and Tourism Development.

Within these divisions are programs that support BEA’s mission to keep the state’s economy strong and competitive, from international trade and government procurement to workforce development and municipal planning.

About NBRC

The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) is a partnership between the federal government and the states of Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. The NBRC targets resources to promote economic growth strategies and projects in designated counties within its member states. 

Mission Statement: The mission of the Northern Border Regional Commission is to catalyze community vitality and economic prosperity in the northern border region with flexible funding and strategic support.

Forest Economy Grant Program

The Forest Economy Program, administered by the Northern Border Regional Commission, makes awards in the form of Grant Agreements. The program stimulates economic growth in the forest-based industries, including new technologies and viable business models, across the NBRC four-state region in alignment with state economic development plans and forest economy initiatives. 

NBRC's Forest Economy Program (FEP) is designed to support state-identified development plans for the regional forest economy and to assist in the industry’s evolution to include new technologies and viable business models.

Forest Economy Program Priorities  

Successful projects support a broad range of initiatives such as, but not limited to:

• Public infrastructure projects that directly support the forest industry;  
• Community development projects that support the diversified use of forest for economic activity;  
• Workforce training and development projects for the purpose of building the skills and recruiting and retaining the workforce needed for forest businesses, and;
• Marketing, communication and education projects that are paired with a public infrastructure, community development or workforce training or development project.  
• Basic research projects will not be considered. Preference will be given to applied research and demonstration projects that demonstrate a strong connection to industry.

Northern Border Regional Commission supports economic and community development in Aroostook County, Maine by funding public infrastructure and job-creating projects. Eligible local entities may seek support for water and wastewater upgrades, transportation improvements, workforce development facilities, outdoor recreation initiatives, and new childcare or healthcare facilities that address economic distress and strengthen rural economic vitality.

Aroostook County, Maine nonprofits focused on real estate and housing can access funding through TD Charitable Foundation to support eviction-prevention and early-intervention programs for low- to moderate-income renters. The Housing for Everyone Competition awards US $1,000,000 - US $2,000,000 to innovative initiatives that help prevent housing loss and keep families stably housed.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on affordable housing, skilled trades, clean water, sanitation, or community revitalization can apply for Ferguson Cares funding in Aroostook County, Maine if within Ferguson’s geographic footprint. Grants from Ferguson help U.S.-based nonprofits strengthen economic wellbeing and quality of life in local communities.

Aroostook County first responder agencies needing safety equipment, professional training, or safety education programs can access funding through Enbridge’s Safe Community First Responder Program. Eligible fire departments, EMS, rescue, emergency management, 9-1-1 centers, ambulance services, and law enforcement near Enbridge operations may receive US $1,000 - US $10,000 to strengthen local emergency response capacity.

Nonprofit educational organizations and public schools hosting one-time education events in Aroostook County, Maine can receive up to US $5,000 to support conferences, community meetings, launches, or similar gatherings. Nellie Mae Education Foundation backs events advancing student-centered public education and educational equity for New England communities, with applicants’ annual budgets not exceeding $2M.

Grants from TD Charitable Foundation help Aroostook County, Maine community and environmental organizations fund public events and activities that positively support local communities. Eligible for-profit and nonprofit applicants should propose sponsorships that offer community benefit, visibility for TD Bank, and participation or networking opportunities for bank colleagues.

Focused on safe, vibrant, and sustainable communities, Enbridge invites Aroostook County, Maine nonprofits to seek support for community safety, youth development, social services, environmental education, and Indigenous community programs. Eligible organizations near Enbridge operations can request US $1,000 - US $10,000 in donations, sponsorships, or in-kind support through the Enbridge Community Grant.

Maine students graduating from Aroostook County high schools who plan to study early childhood education or the liberal arts can receive scholarship support for post-secondary education. Maine Community Foundation provides Aroostook County, Maine learners with help attending accredited colleges, universities, technical schools, and similar programs, with preference for those completing alternative high school programs.

Nonprofit organizations supporting military service members, veterans, and their families with mental, physical, or educational services in Aroostook County, Maine can apply for ES Veterans Association grants. Focused on veterans’ support across New England, this funding can help enhance programs that ease veterans’ transition to civilian life through assistance, education, and community volunteerism.

Nonprofit organizations hosting fundraising events or needing general operating support in Aroostook County, Maine may be eligible for community sponsorships, typically ranging from $500 to $5,000. With a mission to prepare individuals for thriving futures, KeyBank provides support for programs in education, workforce preparation, financial literacy, housing, and broader community development where the bank operates.

501(c)(3) nonprofits in Aroostook County, Maine running workforce development programs can apply for Machias Savings Bank’s Workforce Development Grant, offering US $10,000 - US $25,000 for job training and skills-building projects. Eligible organizations must demonstrate financial stability, strong leadership, and effective programming that helps individuals gain skills for a more livable wage.

Nonprofit organizations in Aroostook County, Maine working on community services, health, education, environmental justice, or poverty alleviation can seek support for programs under TD’s Ready Commitment focus areas. With a mission to improve quality of life, TD Charitable Foundation provides grants over US $5,000, prioritizing inclusive programs serving diverse and historically underserved, low-to-moderate income communities.

Public middle schools running PLTW Gateway STEM programs in Aroostook County, Maine can access funding through Project Lead The Way to expand existing courses or add new Gateway units. Grants of US $10,000 may cover PLTW participation fees, required technology, program equipment and supplies, and PLTW Core Training with related travel and lodging.

Aroostook County, Maine nonprofits working on community development, economic opportunity, youth, education, wellness, or affordable housing can access funding through Machias Savings Bank for eligible projects in the bank’s primary lending area. Grants up to US $10,000 support efforts that create or retain jobs, revitalize communities, and benefit low-to-moderate income individuals and families.

Graduating high school seniors, current college students, and graduate students from Aroostook County, Maine can access funding for post-secondary education through the Sally Stetson Tongren Scholarship Fund. Grants from Maine Community Foundation support a wide range of accredited programs, including undergraduate, graduate, trade, technical, and remedial education for eligible local students.

YWCA Chester County Fund

Mission Statement

A primary focus of the YWCA Chester County Fund is to provide scholarships to women, primarily non-traditional students, to continue their education.

IBEW/Charles Sandberg Scholarship

To provide financial support to family members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 426.

National Academy of Construction

Purpose: The purpose of the Academy is to establish a body of acknowledged construction industry leaders and to provide them recognition through election to the National Academy of Construction. It also offers their collective experience and expertise for the improvement of the industry. The Academy shows recognition to fresh and novel industry achievement with appropriate awards programs. Another important purpose of the Academy is to provide a network system of linkage between past and present participants in the construction industry.

NAC Scholarship

• Members of the National Academy of Construction (NAC) established this scholarship to provide funding for undergraduate and graduate students pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in construction or a closely related field and who intend to pursue a career in the construction industry.
• NAC’s mission is to recognize and honor individuals from all disciplines in the industry for their distinguished contributions to the industry and to share this reservoir of expertise as a service to the nation, including service contributions. It is one of the nation’s esteemed construction industry institutions, characterized by its extensive and diverse expertise, proven leadership, and trusted judgment.
• NAC is committed to diversity and inclusiveness in the construction industry. The intent of this scholarship is to provide financial support for two semesters for deserving students who plan to pursue careers in the construction industry, thus giving back to the profession some of the benefits that its members have received.

Since the scholarship program’s inception in 2020, NAC has awarded 36 scholarships worth over $203,000 to students from across the country.

Only one applicant is permitted from each university. There are no exceptions to this requirement. If more than one application is received from a university, the university will be notified and asked to choose one applicant.

Scholarship recipients will be invited to attend the NAC Annual Meeting. NAC will cover registration for this event and work with the recipients, their universities and others to identify sources of funding to cover travel expenses to attend. Attendance at the Annual Meeting is not required.

W. Thomas Musser Memorial Charitable Fund

Mission Statement

This fund has been initiated in memory of W. Thomas Musser (Tom Musser) and will provide grants to charitable organizations whose missions and activities most closely reflect those that Tom believed in and supported during his life time. A component of the fund will also be used to provide scholarships to individuals pursuing post-secondary education.

Scholarship

The W. Thomas Musser Memorial Scholarship Fund has been established to honor the life and legacy of W. Thomas (Tom) Musser. Tom believed deeply in the importance of education and life-long learning. 

John L. and Linda D. Bohnel Scholarship Fund

Must be attending a college or university that partners with Upswing.

Awards

• (5) $1,000.00

Scott Elliott Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Scott Elliott Memorial Scholarship was established in 2019 by the family and friends of Scott Elliott after he lost his courageous battle against cancer. As a way to honor his legacy, the Scott Elliott Memorial Scholarship incorporates Scott’s life-long passion and commitment to swimming and education. He swam competitively for most of his life, and eventually would go on to become a swimming coach and mentor for 20 years at various clubs and programs around West Chester.

Scott’s impact on the West Chester swimming community is unmatchable. He was able to transform a pool deck into a magical place for so many people—a place where the strongest friendships were formed, the most intimidating obstacles were overcome, and new realizations of one’s potential began to take hold. The lessons Scott taught will not be forgotten, the memories he forged will not diminish.

The level of dedication Scott showed for swimming was only exceeded by his devotion to his wife and two children, Trevor and Piper. Scott was a very involved, loving parent and partner. He led by example through his commitment to bettering the community, his charismatic and approachable personality, his dedication to the sport of swimming, and his ever-relenting ability to persevere given any circumstance. Along with the many memories Scott’s friends and family will share along the way, the Scott Elliott Memorial Scholarship Fund will serve as a constant reminder of their father’s giving nature and very beloved personality.

In Scott’s tenure as a coach and mentor, he encouraged positive development among his swimmers both in and out of the pool. This scholarship embodies Scott’s commitment to helping others become the best version of themselves.

In addition to the Scott Elliott Memorial Scholarship Fund, supporters can remember and honor Scott by participating in the Annual Run to Find a Way #ScottStrong. The most recent run was held on June 4th, 2022. Visit the Run Sign Up Website by clicking here to register for this event.

Emma E. Hill Memorial Scholarship Fund

Mission Statement

The Emma E. Hill Memorial Scholarship Fund was established to memorialize Emma by helping female swimmers pursue their dreams of a college education. The scholarship awards will be granted on an annual basis to female graduating high school senior athletes in Southern Chester County.

About Emma

Emma was an excellent student as a sophomore at Unionville High School (UHS). She loved to swim and was a dedicated member of both the Kennett YMCA Sea Dragons and UHS swim teams. In her spare time, Emma was a lifeguard and also taught young children how to swim at the Y. As a younger child and teenager, Emma excelled on the ballfield in URA softball.

At the young age of 16, Emma passed away following complications caused by a rare type of gastric cancer, a form of the disease that was unheard of in a child and unfortunately found too late. Throughout Emma’s brief illness, she was strong and determined to get better, and did not let her health issues define her in any way.

Emma was beautiful in every sense of the word, and was loved throughout her community and beyond. She worked hard at whatever she was trying to accomplish, but always with a cheery, exuberant attitude and lovely smile. More than anything, her absolute kindness and warm heart are what made Emma our sweet girl.

Jacquie Porter Scholarship for Aspiring Early Childhood Teachers in Austin ISD

Aspirations of becoming an early childhood educator.

Awards

• (1) $5,000.00

Bruce E. Hepke Memorial Scholarship

Mission Statement

The Bruce E. Hepke Memorial Scholarship was established in 2021 to commemorate the life of a very special husband, father, and friend.

Devoted husband to wife Sue, and father to sons Darren and Connor, Bruce was diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2016. He fought the disease bravely, until tragically, it took its final toll on February 18, 2021. The support that Bruce received from his family during this period, as well as his own personal courage and perseverance to live life to its fullest, were exceptionally inspirational.

A true gentleman, in every sense of the word, this memorial scholarship will be awarded each year to a college-bound candidate that demonstrates the characteristics that made Bruce such a remarkable and outstanding person-

Perseverance, Integrity, Leadership and Sportsmanship.

About the Scholarship

An avid golfer his entire life, Bruce loved the mental and physical challenges of the sport, the camaraderie, the competition, and the pure fun in traveling and playing on different courses. In 1998 he joined the West Chester Golf and Country Club, where he found a wonderful group of people with whom to socialize and play golf. Bruce was a true “renaissance man” with an incredibly wide range of interests but playing golf and being an active member of his Club were at the top of his list. This scholarship is intended to reflect his love for both the sport and his Club. It will be awarded annually to a high school senior and will be chosen from a candidate pool that includes the West Chester Golf and Country Club’s Ambassador Golf program as well as six surrounding high schools that have special meaning to the Hepke family. (The six high schools are Great Valley, Malvern Preparatory School, Marple Newtown, West Chester Bayard Rustin, West Chester East and West Chester Henderson.)