Best Grants for Women in Maine

The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.

The DanPaul Foundation aims to enhance early childhood development by training teachers and parents, protecting children from abuse, and promoting social responsibility. They provide grants to non-profits for programs that focus on education, health, and welfare of youth. Key initiatives include scholarships, environmental education, and support for underprivileged children. Grant amounts range from a few hundred dollars to $15,000 annually, with a focus on impactful, community-driven projects.

The Labcorp Charitable Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) entity, aims to enhance healthcare access and education for all. With grant opportunities focusing on food programs, healthcare services for underserved populations, and STEM initiatives, it seeks to support community health and well-being. Organizations eligible for funding must be U.S.-based and hold tax-exempt status. Requests are reviewed biannually, in March and September, to foster impactful community projects.

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 Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

The Mobilize Power Fund Grant, offered by the Third Wave Fund, supports youth-led gender justice activism. This rapid response fund targets organizations led by young women of color and LGBTQ+ youth, providing up to $10,000 for urgent needs. It prioritizes groups addressing recent incidents that threaten their work, fostering community power and leadership. Organizations with budgets under $500,000 can apply, aiming for impactful, time-sensitive initiatives that promote social change.

The Betterment Fund Grant provides financial support ranging from $10,000 to $35,000 annually, aimed at enhancing education, health, conservation, and community support in Maine. The fund prioritizes systemic community initiatives that address essential human needs while favoring projects with a proven track record in grant management. Special attention is given to projects in the Western Mountains region, although broader applications that meet their criteria may also be considered.

The JWF Chicago Annual Grants aim to enhance opportunities for Jewish women and girls by funding projects that address their unique needs through a gender and Jewish lens. The foundation supports initiatives that promote social change and empowerment, focusing on areas like economic security, education, health, and innovation. Grants range from $15,000 to an average of $20,000-$25,000, with eligibility for 501(c)(3) organizations and specific requirements for Israeli grantees.

The JWF Chicago Multiyear Grants program supports initiatives aimed at empowering Jewish women and girls through strategic funding. With a focus on social change, it offers three-year grants up to $20,000 in the first two years and $15,000 in the third. Eligible organizations must demonstrate a commitment to Jewish women's needs, fostering leadership, economic security, and well-being. The program seeks innovative projects that can create a lasting impact in the community, ensuring support for diverse initiatives across the globe.

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.

The Rapid Response Program Fund, managed by the Elmina B. Sewall Foundation, addresses urgent needs of organizations in Maine. It supports community-based initiatives focused on equity, particularly for marginalized groups. Grants, capped at $10,000, are aimed at time-sensitive projects that align with the foundation's mission for environmental and social justice. Eligible organizations can apply through a fiscal sponsor or directly if they meet tax-exempt criteria, enhancing community resilience and well-being.

The Hansen Family Foundation Grant seeks to empower organizations that uphold the American values of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Focused on diverse causes like children, education, animals, environmental conservation, humanitarian efforts, and arts, the foundation is committed to supporting initiatives that create positive change. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits, while political campaigns and organizations with high budgets or overheads are ineligible. This grant fosters impactful contributions to society.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

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 Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

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.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

Seacoast Womens Giving Circle

We are 200 members strong and are committed to preserving the quality of life on the Seacoast. Members hail from around the world but most call the Seacoast area "home". 

What We Do

Members contribute to an annual collective gift and participate in volunteer service projects in the community. Over the course of the year, members educate themselves about community issues, identify a specific topic on which to focus, and select nonprofit organization(s) to receive the Giving Circle's annual gift.

Where We Serve

The immediate scope of our giving and volunteering includes the following towns: Seabrook, Hampton, Hampton Falls, North Hampton, Rye, Portsmouth, New Castle, Greenland, Newington and Kittery.

Request for Grant Application

Topic: Protecting Marginalized and At Risk Children & Adolescents

When children and adolescents face mistreatment or discrimination, are stigmatized, and/or cannot access vital health and educational services, they cannot thrive.

The Seacoast Women's Giving Circle will be accepting applications from organizations that support marginalized and at-risk children and adolescents.

Priority will be given to organizations that address one or more of the following:

• ​Direct services
• Advocacy
• Social change initiatives

Seacoast Women’s Giving Circle Priorities:

• Improving quality of life on the Seacoast
• Serving the socio-economically underprivileged
• Fostering independence and self-reliance
• Addressing emerging needs and issues
• Providing long-term solutions
• Investing in the expansion of existing organizations rather than the creation of new ones

We are accepting applications for unrestricted funding grants of $25,000.

The Food Systems Grant Program, funded by the Elmina B. Sewall Foundation, aims to support initiatives in Maine that promote food justice, sovereignty, and nutrition equity. With available funding of $1,870,000, the program prioritizes grassroots efforts led by marginalized communities. Grants range from $10,000 to $200,000, depending on the scope and collaboration of the projects. The foundation encourages applications from organizations that address systemic inequities within the food system.

The Keystone Grant Program, funded by the Elmina B. Sewall Foundation, aims to empower grassroots and community-led initiatives focused on environmental and racial justice in Maine. With available funding of up to $1.5 million, the program supports organizations demonstrating a commitment to advocacy and civic engagement. Applicants must be eligible to receive tax-deductible donations and can include diverse groups, particularly those led by marginalized communities, to foster a sustainable and equitable future.

The Nature Awards for Inspiring Women in Science, particularly in the Science Outreach category, honors initiatives that empower girls and young women in STEM fields. With a focus on engagement and retention, the awards aim to celebrate projects that encourage participation in natural sciences, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine. Winners will receive significant cash prizes and opportunities for mentorship, creating pathways for future generations of women in science.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

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.

Internet Society Foundation

At the Internet Society Foundation, we focus on funding initiatives that strengthen the Internet in function and reach so that it can effectively serve all people. Our work advances the vision of the Internet Society (ISOC): The Internet is For Everyone.

To this end, we support efforts to ensure that the Internet is open, globally-connected, secure, and trustworthy. We champion the use of the network as a critical technical infrastructure that can bring communities better education, healthcare and economic opportunity among other important areas of focus. We believe that by working together, we can use the Internet to shape a better future for us all and positively impact humanity worldwide.

Community-Centered Connectivity Grant Program

Program Overview

Over 2 billion people remain offline – about a quarter of the world’s population – and most live in remote and rural, low-income and isolated communities worldwide. Usually, they are not able to connect to the Internet for three main reasons:

• Availability: Unavailable or unreliable connectivity
• Affordability: Local population can't afford to pay for connectivity
• Adoption: People lack awareness of the internet's benefits

The Internet Society Foundation’s Community-Centered Connectivity (CCC) Grant Program, a core part of the Internet Society’s work to help communities bridge the digital divide, aims to address these challenges by supporting organizations to develop and expand Internet access and increase adoption in digitally excluded communities.

Community-centered connectivity is when connectivity solutions are built for, with, or by local communities themselves. These solutions are not imposed from outside but instead designed with direct involvement from the people who will use and maintain them. They often emerge in places where other models have failed or are not viable.

Through its three funding tracks – Catalyst, Scaling, and Systems – the CCC Grant Program supports organizations of various backgrounds, sizes, and expertise who can offer the best context-specific, community-centered connectivity solutions.

Program Objectives

• Support connectivity solutions that solve the major barriers to meaningful connectivity for communities: availability, affordability, and adoption. Solutions should increase the availability of affordable, reliable Internet connectivity among digitally excluded communities.
• Increase Internet adoption by strengthening digital literacy and local capacity to manage and maintain connectivity solutions.
• Support organizations that build and sustain collaborative partnerships with communities and other stakeholders to implement connectivity solutions and expand their capacity.
• Increase organizational capacity of grantee partners to scale their work.

Funding

The CCC Grant Program welcomes eligible organizations to apply to one of the three funding tracks, based on their organization’s capacity, experience, the scale, and duration of the project they propose. While applications from any eligible organizations are welcome, a strong preference will be given to those working with refugees/displaced communities, Indigenous communities, and women and girls.

Catalyst Track

Up to USD $50,000 to build at least one new connectivity solution, or an expand an existing solution, in a community. This project can be up to 12 months.

Internet Society Foundation

At the Internet Society Foundation, we focus on funding initiatives that strengthen the Internet in function and reach so that it can effectively serve all people. Our work advances the vision of the Internet Society (ISOC): The Internet is For Everyone.

To this end, we support efforts to ensure that the Internet is open, globally-connected, secure, and trustworthy. We champion the use of the network as a critical technical infrastructure that can bring communities better education, healthcare and economic opportunity among other important areas of focus. We believe that by working together, we can use the Internet to shape a better future for us all and positively impact humanity worldwide.

Community-Centered Connectivity Grant Program

Program Overview

Over 2 billion people remain offline – about a quarter of the world’s population – and most live in remote and rural, low-income and isolated communities worldwide. Usually, they are not able to connect to the Internet for three main reasons:

• Availability: Unavailable or unreliable connectivity
• Affordability: Local population can't afford to pay for connectivity
• Adoption: People lack awareness of the internet's benefits

The Internet Society Foundation’s Community-Centered Connectivity (CCC) Grant Program, a core part of the Internet Society’s work to help communities bridge the digital divide, aims to address these challenges by supporting organizations to develop and expand Internet access and increase adoption in digitally excluded communities.

Community-centered connectivity is when connectivity solutions are built for, with, or by local communities themselves. These solutions are not imposed from outside but instead designed with direct involvement from the people who will use and maintain them. They often emerge in places where other models have failed or are not viable.

Through its three funding tracks – Catalyst, Scaling, and Systems – the CCC Grant Program supports organizations of various backgrounds, sizes, and expertise who can offer the best context-specific, community-centered connectivity solutions.

Program Objectives

• Support connectivity solutions that solve the major barriers to meaningful connectivity for communities: availability, affordability, and adoption. Solutions should increase the availability of affordable, reliable Internet connectivity among digitally excluded communities.
• Increase Internet adoption by strengthening digital literacy and local capacity to manage and maintain connectivity solutions.
• Support organizations that build and sustain collaborative partnerships with communities and other stakeholders to implement connectivity solutions and expand their capacity.
• Increase organizational capacity of grantee partners to scale their work.

Funding

The CCC Grant Program welcomes eligible organizations to apply to one of the three funding tracks, based on their organization’s capacity, experience, the scale, and duration of the project they propose. While applications from any eligible organizations are welcome, a strong preference will be given to those working with refugees/displaced communities, Indigenous communities, and women and girls.

Scaling Track

Up to USD $200,000 to support deployment of proven, successful solutions to improve or expand connectivity to multiple communities. This project can be up to 18 months.