Best Aquaculture Grants in Maine

Department of Economic and Community Development

At DECD, we are more than two dozen experts whose broad mission is to help communities and businesses prosper through a variety of programs providing everything from targeted tax relief to community block grants to tourism marketing. Whether your business wants to make a film here, bring a Maine-made product to market, expand an aquaculture project, or explore financing when moving a business to our state, our experienced staff can help.

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program 

In 1982 the State of Maine began administering the CDBG Program to assist units of local government in various community projects in areas ranging from infrastructure, housing, downtown revitalization to public facilities and economic development.

CDBG Objectives

All CDBG funded activities must meet one of three National Objectives of the program. These objectives are:

• Benefit to low- and moderate-income persons.
• Prevention and/or elimination of slum and blight conditions; and
• Meeting community development needs having a particular urgency

The Maine CDBG Program serves as a catalyst for local governments to implement programs which meet one of the three National Objectives, and:

• Are part of a long-range community strategy, or State of Maine Strategic Economic Development Plan
• Improve deteriorated residential and business districts and local economic conditions
• Provide the conditions and incentives for further public and private investments
• Foster partnerships between groups of municipalities, state and federal entities, multi-jurisdictional organizations, and the private sector to address common community and economic development problems; and
• Minimize development sprawl consistent with the State of Maine Growth Management Act and support the revitalization of downtown areas.

CDBG Home Repair Network Program (HRN)

The Home Repair Network Program (HRN) provides funding statewide to address housing problems of low- and moderate-income persons. This program will provide housing rehabilitation services administered on a regional basis throughout Maine.

Eligible Activities

Eligible activities under the HRN Program are rehabilitation of occupied or vacant single-family or multi-family housing units, demolition, same site replacement housing, provision of potable water and sewer, energy conservation, removal/mitigation of lead-based paint, asbestos, radon, or other hazardous material, removal of architectural barriers and the Critical Access Ramp Program (via Alpha One).

Department of Economic and Community Development

At DECD, we are more than two dozen experts whose broad mission is to help communities and businesses prosper through a variety of programs providing everything from targeted tax relief to community block grants to tourism marketing. Whether your business wants to make a film here, bring a Maine-made product to market, expand an aquaculture project, or explore financing when moving a business to our state, our experienced staff can help.

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program 

In 1982 the State of Maine began administering the CDBG Program to assist units of local government in various community projects in areas ranging from infrastructure, housing, downtown revitalization to public facilities and economic development.

CDBG Objectives

All CDBG funded activities must meet one of three National Objectives of the program. These objectives are:

• Benefit to low- and moderate-income persons.
• Prevention and/or elimination of slum and blight conditions; and
• Meeting community development needs having a particular urgency

The Maine CDBG Program serves as a catalyst for local governments to implement programs which meet one of the three National Objectives, and:

• Are part of a long-range community strategy, or State of Maine Strategic Economic Development Plan
• Improve deteriorated residential and business districts and local economic conditions
• Provide the conditions and incentives for further public and private investments
• Foster partnerships between groups of municipalities, state and federal entities, multi-jurisdictional organizations, and the private sector to address common community and economic development problems; and
• Minimize development sprawl consistent with the State of Maine Growth Management Act and support the revitalization of downtown areas.

CDBG Special Projects Program

The Special Projects Program provides funds to projects that are not funded through the normal CDBG application process. SP funds will be used for alternative OCD grant activities and partnerships that meet the community or economic development needs of municipalities and CDBG National Objectives in the State of Maine. Approval for the use of SPMF funds is through the Director, Office of Community Development.

Funding for this program may be available based upon redistribution, reallocation and/or additional allocation from HUD.

Department of Economic and Community Development

At DECD, we are more than two dozen experts whose broad mission is to help communities and businesses prosper through a variety of programs providing everything from targeted tax relief to community block grants to tourism marketing. Whether your business wants to make a film here, bring a Maine-made product to market, expand an aquaculture project, or explore financing when moving a business to our state, our experienced staff can help.

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program 

In 1982 the State of Maine began administering the CDBG Program to assist units of local government in various community projects in areas ranging from infrastructure, housing, downtown revitalization to public facilities and economic development.

CDBG Objectives

All CDBG funded activities must meet one of three National Objectives of the program. These objectives are:

• Benefit to low- and moderate-income persons.
• Prevention and/or elimination of slum and blight conditions; and
• Meeting community development needs having a particular urgency

The Maine CDBG Program serves as a catalyst for local governments to implement programs which meet one of the three National Objectives, and:

• Are part of a long-range community strategy, or State of Maine Strategic Economic Development Plan
• Improve deteriorated residential and business districts and local economic conditions
• Provide the conditions and incentives for further public and private investments
• Foster partnerships between groups of municipalities, state and federal entities, multi-jurisdictional organizations, and the private sector to address common community and economic development problems; and
• Minimize development sprawl consistent with the State of Maine Growth Management Act and support the revitalization of downtown areas.

Urgent Need Grant Program

The Urgent need Grant (UN) Program provides funding to communities to address serious and immediate threats to health and welfare which are declared state or federal disasters.

 The applicant must address a community development need which meets all four criteria listed below:

• poses a serious and immediate threat to the health or welfare of the community;
• originated or became a direct threat to public health and safety no more than 18 months prior to submission of the application;
• is a project the applicant cannot finance on its own. “Cannot finance on its own” means, that the town’s tax burden, regulatory structure, utility user fees, bonding capacity, or previous or existing budgetary commitments, precludes it from assuming the additional financial obligation needed for this project; and
• cannot be addressed with other sources of funding.

Funding for this program may be available based upon redistribution, reallocation and/or additional allocation from HUD.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

About Northeast SARE

The Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) Program offers grants and education to farmers, educators, service providers, researchers and others to address key issues affecting the sustainability of agriculture throughout our region.

The program serves Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. The program is administered by Northeast SARE's host institution, the University of Vermont.

Farming Community Grant Program

The Northeast SARE Farming Community Grant applies social science research and education projects that strengthen farming and food systems at the community level.

These projects explore innovative approaches to improving the health and sustainability of agricultural communities in the Northeast. This program supports projects that are grounded in community partnerships and informed by the lived experiences of farmers. It encourages collaboration among farmers, service providers, researchers, and nonprofit organizations to co-create solutions that are responsive to local needs and scalable across the region.

This program encourages innovative solutions to challenges in farming and food systems in the Northeast USA, including but not limited to the areas of: Marketing and business; Crop production; Raising livestock; Aquaculture; Economic and social sustainability; Ecological knowledge; Projects related to climate and/or bioenergy work that provide direct or indirect benefits to farmers,ranchers, and private foresters; and more.

Technical Assistance Program

Applicants and grantees of the Farming Community Grant Program are eligible for Technical Assistance (TA) provided by Northeast SARE’s Technical Assistance Providers.

Funding: This grant is reimbursement based; you must spend money to receive the grant funds.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

The CDBG Downtown Revitalization Grant Program, administered by the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development, aims to enhance downtown areas through innovative solutions. Eligible communities must match 25% of the grant and demonstrate recent revitalization planning. Projects should benefit low/moderate income individuals or address slum conditions. Maximum funding is $300,000, with bonus points for communities designated by the Maine Downtown Center. This program fosters public and private investments for sustainable growth.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

The Doyle Undergraduate Fellowship, offered by New Hampshire Sea Grant, provides a unique opportunity for undergraduates to engage in marine resource projects while receiving mentorship and training. This paid fellowship supports students interested in marine-related research and education, with potential earnings of up to $5,000 over a 10-week summer period. By participating, fellows gain valuable insights into coastal and marine management, enhancing their skills and expanding their professional networks.

The CDBG Housing Assistance Program, managed by the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development, offers funding for low- and moderate-income housing projects. Eligible applicants include local governments and counties in Maine, with a maximum grant amount of $1,000,000. A 20% cash match is required for applicants, and administrative costs cannot exceed 15% of the grant. This program aims to improve housing options through rehabilitation and conversion of properties.

About Us

At DECD, we are more than two dozen experts whose broad mission is to help communities and businesses prosper through a variety of programs providing everything from targeted tax relief to community block grants to tourism marketing. Whether your business wants to make a film here, bring a Maine-made product to market, expand an aquaculture project, or explore financing when moving a business to our state, our experienced staff can help.

CDBG Public Service Grant Program

The Public Service Grant (PSG) Program addresses community and business resource needs by providing funding for operating expenses, equipment, and program materials for activities which will benefit low/moderate income (LMI) persons.

Project Benefit: Eligible PSG projects must provide benefits to one of the groups of persons listed below and be in support of an identified business or non-profit entity:

Participants in a program where 51% or greater of the persons receiving benefit from PSG activities are determined to be LMI.

Persons who are members of the following groups that are currently presumed by HUD to meet benefit requirements. The presumption may be challenged if there is substantial evidence the group served by the project is most likely not comprised of principally LMI persons;

Abused Children (Does not include “at-risk” youth) • Battered Spouses (Does not include all victims of domestic violence) • Elderly Persons (62 years +, or 55 years + for housing) • Severely Disabled Adults • Homeless Persons • Illiterate Adults • Migrant Farm Workers • Persons Living with AIDS

All communities applying for PSG funds must certify that: The activity represents a new service to the community; or a quantifiable increase in the level of an existing service;

Maximum PSG Amount: $50,000

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.

The Weeden Foundation Grant supports biodiversity conservation initiatives worldwide. It prioritizes projects that protect endangered species, restore habitats, and promote sustainable practices. The foundation funds 501(c)(3) organizations or their international equivalents, focusing on areas such as bird conservation, marine wildlife protection, and systemic support for environmental policies. Applicants must submit a Letter of Inquiry four weeks before the application deadline, and the foundation does not fund multi-year grants or projects outside its focus areas.

Department of Economic and Community Development

At DECD, we are more than two dozen experts whose broad mission is to help communities and businesses prosper through a variety of programs providing everything from targeted tax relief to community block grants to tourism marketing. Whether your business wants to make a film here, bring a Maine-made product to market, expand an aquaculture project, or explore financing when moving a business to our state, our experienced staff can help.

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program 

In 1982 the State of Maine began administering the CDBG Program to assist units of local government in various community projects in areas ranging from infrastructure, housing, downtown revitalization to public facilities and economic development.

CDBG Objectives

All CDBG funded activities must meet one of three National Objectives of the program. These objectives are:

• Benefit to low- and moderate-income persons.
• Prevention and/or elimination of slum and blight conditions; and
• Meeting community development needs having a particular urgency

The Maine CDBG Program serves as a catalyst for local governments to implement programs which meet one of the three National Objectives, and:

• Are part of a long-range community strategy, or State of Maine Strategic Economic Development Plan
• Improve deteriorated residential and business districts and local economic conditions
• Provide the conditions and incentives for further public and private investments
• Foster partnerships between groups of municipalities, state and federal entities, multi-jurisdictional organizations, and the private sector to address common community and economic development problems; and
• Minimize development sprawl consistent with the State of Maine Growth Management Act and support the revitalization of downtown areas.

CDBG Public Infrastructure Grant Program

The Public Infrastructure Grant (PI) Program provides gap funding for local infrastructure activities, which are part of a community development strategy leading to future public and private investments. Applications will only be accepted in even years. 

Eligible Activities

Eligible activities in the PI Program are construction, acquisition, reconstruction, installation, relocation assistance associated with public infrastructure, and public infrastructure limited to supporting construction of fully-funded affordable LMI housing; eligible planning activities necessary to complete the Project Development Phase.