Best Grants for Environmental Projects in Maine

Maine-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits, municipalities, public schools, public agencies, tribal governments, and fiscally sponsored groups can apply for Maine Community Foundation’s Community Building Grant Program, with awards up to US $10,000 for community-strengthening projects or general support. Environmental initiatives that build skills, engage residents, and enhance natural or built resources in Maine may be eligible.

501(c)(3) organizations in Maine serving children or advancing environmental stewardship can apply for Sprague’s charitable contributions program; awards range from US $250 - US $10,000. Eligible nonprofits working on local environmental projects may receive priority if they operate within Sprague’s service area and demonstrate strong impact with modest funding.

Grants from the David, Helen, and Marian Woodward Fund help Maine environmental and conservation nonprofits and agencies support projects in areas like environment, animals, and public benefit. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations and governmental agencies in Maine and other New England states may apply, with some preference historically given to Connecticut-based organizations.

Students pursuing environmental and plant science fields in Maine can receive scholarship support to advance their studies. Grants from Garden Club Federation Of Maine/Old York Garden Club help Maine residents studying botany, ecology, conservation, forestry, horticulture, landscape design, environmental studies, or sustainable agriculture at Maine institutions or the University of New Hampshire, with awards of US $3,000.

Maine 501(c)(3) organizations, as well as tax-exempt towns, fire or emergency departments, and school systems, can seek Stephen and Tabitha King Foundation support for one-time projects that build organizational capacity, including environmental initiatives. Grants prioritize communities with less access to resources and can also benefit programs in literacy, community development, arts, and related areas.

Maine 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on environmental, community, medical, educational, or arts and culture programs can seek US $1,000 - US $15,000 to support their work. The Margaret E. Burnham Charitable Trust funds organizations located, operating, and serving within Maine, and includes environmental conservation among its key program areas.

Maine environmental and conservation organizations can access funding through the John Sage Foundation for projects that promote a harmonious relationship between people and the natural environment. Grants of US $500 - US $50,000 support efforts like land acquisition, water testing, environmental education, conservation easements, and related environmental projects in Maine.

Nonprofit organizations improving food access or STEM education in U.S. communities, including Maine, may be eligible for funding to support their programs. Focused on food as health and building STEM foundations, Takeda invites environmental and community groups to propose projects addressing nutrition, medically tailored meals, urban farming, K-12 math, STEM enrichment, or college success.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on community development, basic needs, workforce education, arts, environment, or inclusion projects in Maine and nationwide can seek sponsorship support for programs and events. With a mission to advance economic mobility, Bank of America Charitable Foundation provides regional U.S. sponsorships that may benefit environmental initiatives and related community projects.

Municipal, religious, charitable, benevolent, and educational organizations in Maine can apply for the Elizabeth Raymond Ambler Trust’s project-based grants to support work in areas such as environmental initiatives, education, health, and human services. Eligible entities planning community-focused environmental projects in Maine may be especially interested in this flexible community grant opportunity.

Maine environmental nonprofits and other tax-exempt organizations can access funding for general operations or special projects through the Goodnow Fund, which supports environmental initiatives alongside child welfare, Alzheimer’s research, and educational equity. Although based in Connecticut with a focus on Fairfield County, it funds organizations across the U.S. and invites project discussions via its Executive Director.

Environmental and conservation-focused charitable organizations, especially those in Michigan, can seek funding for projects, programs, or capital needs through the Harry A. & Margaret D. Towsley Foundation. Focused on education, health, human services, environment, arts, and community initiatives, it offers more than US $250,000, which may benefit Maine-based groups working on broader environmental efforts with a Michigan connection.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, public schools, and qualified government entities working on environmental, education, entrepreneurship, or community enrichment projects in Maine communities near Georgia-Pacific facilities may be eligible for funding. Georgia-Pacific Foundation supports initiatives that enhance long-term well-being and sustainability within its manufacturing communities, including parts of Maine.

U.S. 501(c)(3) public charities, government entities, and IRS-recognized tribes working in environmental science, education, or human services can seek project funding, including work that may benefit Maine communities. Grants from Change Happens Foundation help support environmental conservation, climate resilience, and STEM and early education, with a focus on equity and underserved populations.

Maine environmental organizations and related nonprofits can access funding through the James C Stewart Charitable Foundation for projects in areas like environment, animals, health, education, and community benefit. 501(c)(3) organizations may be eligible for approximately US $10,000 to support charitable programs, with the foundation historically favoring Tucson, Arizona and Southern California.

Nonprofit and mission-driven for-profit innovators with early-stage environmental, heritage conservation, or social justice projects in Maine can access funding through the J.M. Kaplan Fund. The J.M.K. Innovation Prize awards up to US $175,000 for transformative pilots or prototypes, plus multi-year guidance and peer-learning support to scale social and environmental impact nationwide.

Students pursuing environmental science, biology, engineering, or related physical sciences in Maine can receive US $1,500 in scholarship support for their studies through the RTK Scholars Program. RTK Environmental Group provides this annual award to U.S. citizens or legal residents enrolled in accredited schools who maintain at least a 3.0 GPA.

Maine environmental and community-focused 501(c)(3) organizations, municipalities, and public schools can access funding through Sorenson Legacy Foundation to support projects in education, health care, innovation, and community development. U.S.-based groups working on environmental conservation, parks and green spaces, or protecting and enhancing the environment may be especially competitive, with preference for efforts in Utah.

Environmental nonprofits in Maine can seek support for conservation and related projects that promote environmental progress in the U.S. Grants from the Donald & Ruby Branson Foundation also fund educational and social progress initiatives for 501(c)(3) organizations, offering flexible support for programs that keep communities and natural spaces healthy for future generations.

Charitable organizations in Maine working on education, literacy, environmental sustainability, or humanitarian needs may be eligible for community investment support. Grants from Domtar help groups in communities where it has facilities and employees fund quality education programs, responsible forestry and wildlife initiatives, and efforts that address critical humanitarian needs through an online application reviewed throughout the year.

The Looking Out Foundation Grant supports social justice and humanitarian initiatives, having donated nearly $6 million to various causes globally. With an average donation of $25 per campaign, it aids organizations focused on disaster relief, racial justice, and support for marginalized communities. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt public charities under Section 501(c)(3). The foundation prioritizes diverse funding sources and encourages organizations to adapt to changing needs, with grant allocations ranging from $5,000 to $25,000.

The Progressive Multiplier Grants support U.S. based nonprofits and subsidiaries focused on generating independent revenue through innovative projects. These grants aim to empower organizations working towards democracy, justice, and environmental restoration, fostering civic engagement and equality. By funding campaigns and civic mobilization, the program seeks to build sustained progressive power, avoiding direct service or public education initiatives. Interested parties can submit letters of inquiry on a rolling basis when funding aligns with grant criteria.

The Japan – U.S. Global Partnership Grant Program aims to foster collaborative projects addressing global issues through partnerships between Japanese and American organizations. It focuses on policy-oriented research and dialogue among diverse professionals, including academia and grassroots practitioners. Key thematic areas include resilience, inclusivity, and advancements in science and technology. Projects outside these themes may also be eligible if aligned with grant goals, covering topics like climate change, public health, and digital transformation.

The Unity for Humanity Grant invites innovative creators to submit impact-driven projects that utilize real-time 3D technology. This annual grant provides funding, technical support, and marketing resources to help bring visionary ideas to life. Projects must align with UN Sustainable Development Goals and demonstrate measurable impact. Eligible submissions include prototypes across various genres, fostering a more inclusive and sustainable world. Join us in empowering changemakers to make a positive global difference.

The National Estuary Program Watersheds Grant Program, administered by Restore America’s Estuaries and supported by the EPA, funds competitive projects addressing critical threats to estuaries. Key priorities include habitat restoration, enhancing coastal resilience against extreme weather, managing nutrient impacts, and mitigating stormwater runoff. Established in 1987, the program aims to improve ecological integrity and water quality in 28 estuaries nationwide, providing essential funding and guidance to local initiatives.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) seeks proposals for Arctic research to enhance understanding of the rapidly changing Arctic environment and its social systems. This initiative encourages innovative research that connects the Arctic region with lower latitudes, aiming to improve projections of future changes. Collaborations with federal and international partners are encouraged for co-reviewing proposals. Proposals that extend beyond the Arctic must clearly articulate their relevance to Arctic knowledge advancement.

The Roots & Shoots Project Grant, offered by the Jane Goodall Institute, empowers U.S.-based youth to initiate community-action projects that positively impact people, animals, and the environment. With a funding opportunity of $250, this grant encourages young leaders to take charge and make a difference in their communities. Eligible applicants include children, teens, educators, and community groups. Join the movement to foster change and celebrate local initiatives that contribute to a sustainable future.