Best History Grants in Maine

The Rauch Foundation Grant focuses on promoting systemic change through innovative approaches in global food systems and financial literacy for students. By partnering with various organizations, including nonprofits and educational institutions, the foundation aims to create significant impacts on community health and economic preparedness. Their work emphasizes evidence-based research and collaboration, particularly in addressing environmental concerns and enhancing financial education among the youth.

Takeda's Corporate Giving program focuses on enhancing community well-being in the U.S. by supporting initiatives in two key areas: Food is Health and Building STEM Foundations. Through employee engagement and partnerships, Takeda aims to provide access to nutritious food and foster STEM education, addressing social disparities and empowering future innovators. This commitment reflects Takeda's mission of better health and a brighter future for all.

The World Future Fund Grant aims to create a sustainable future by addressing social and economic imbalances. It prioritizes funding organizations that promote social democracy and enhance public welfare, particularly in the USA and Europe. By fostering coalitions and supporting educational initiatives, the fund seeks to empower communities to engage with pressing societal issues. The grant encourages innovative approaches to leadership and outreach, especially among youth, to inspire positive change and tackle global challenges.

The MHC: Arts and Humanities Grants support innovative community projects in Maine that blend arts and humanities, fostering cultural expressions and storytelling. Eligible organizations include 501c3s, government entities, and educational institutions. Projects must engage participants in meaningful discussions about human culture and ensure a nonjudgmental environment. The grants encourage applications from those serving under-resourced communities, with funding available up to $1,000.

The Steven C. Leuthold Family Foundation Grants support 501(c)(3) non-profits in areas such as land conservation, environmental protection, human services, and animal welfare. Founded in 1991 by philanthropist Steven C. Leuthold, the foundation prioritizes organizations that align with its giving preferences. Applications are due by June 30, 2025, with grants distributed by December 2025. Note that incomplete applications will not be accepted.

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 MainStreet Foundation Quarterly Grant, initiated by Androscoggin Bank, focuses on supporting at-risk youth in Maine by funding essential programs related to food, security, shelter, and education. Grants of up to $5,000 are awarded quarterly to nonprofits that effectively address the needs of vulnerable children. By emphasizing community involvement and sustainable practices, the Foundation aims to create a supportive environment for youth development, ultimately enhancing their well-being and future prospects.

The 25K for Kids Grant, offered by the Androscoggin Bank MainStreet Foundation, supports local non-profits in Maine that help at-risk youth access essential services such as food, shelter, and security. This annual grant of $25,000 is awarded to one organization after a competitive selection process involving presentations from finalists. The Foundation emphasizes direct service proposals that foster leadership, literacy, and mental health support, ensuring a positive impact on the community's vulnerable populations.

The Davis Family Foundation, established in Maine, focuses on granting support to educational, medical, and cultural/arts organizations. With over $63.5 million awarded since 1986, the foundation emphasizes innovative projects that make a significant impact on Maine communities. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and align with the foundation's priorities, ensuring projects enhance educational outcomes or address medical issues effectively. The foundation seeks unique projects that engage the community and preserve Maine's cultural heritage.

The Moving Image Fund, established by LEF New England, offers crucial support for independent documentary filmmakers in the region. Since 2002, it has funded over 300 projects, promoting innovative storytelling and artistic excellence. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for pre-production phases, with a focus on projects demonstrating originality, technical skill, and feasibility. The fund aims to strengthen New England's film community and ensure the sustainability of artistic endeavors.

The Movement Focus Area Grant by the Quimby Family Foundation supports Maine-based nonprofits dedicated to advancing Human Wholeness through movement and nourishment. Grants range from $2,500 to $25,000, with a focus on fostering connections between people and nature. Eligible organizations must hold a 501(c)(3) status and demonstrate community involvement. This grant aims to create equitable access to outdoor experiences and promote health and well-being through active engagement with nature.

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 Fund for Wild Nature Grant empowers small non-profit organizations in Canada and the U.S. that prioritize the preservation of native species and ecosystems. With a biocentric approach, this grant supports innovative initiatives combating environmental degradation. Organizations must be tax-exempt and can only submit one proposal annually. Grants do not exceed $3,000, ensuring funding is directed to impactful projects addressing ecological issues often overlooked. Join the Fund in investing in the future of wild nature!

The Rosamond Thaxter Foundation Grant supports charitable organizations in Kittery, Maine, Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and the Isles of Shoals. The Foundation prioritizes local non-profits focusing on history, healthcare, land conservation, education, museums and libraries, and the arts. Eligibility requires tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3), while private foundations are ineligible. Through its grants, the Foundation aims to enhance community well-being and support diverse initiatives.

The Morton-Kelly Charitable Trust, established in 1988, focuses on enhancing community connections through arts, culture, and environmental initiatives in Maine. The Trust supports projects that foster creative expression, promote historic preservation, and encourage environmental stewardship. Grant applicants can seek up to $20,000 for operating support or specific projects that align with these priorities. The Foundation emphasizes equitable access and community representation in its funding decisions.

The Elizabeth M. Pfriem Foundation, established in 2015 in Rye Brook, New York, is committed to enhancing the human condition through grants to 501(c)(3) public charities. Focusing primarily on the greater Bridgeport, Connecticut area, it supports initiatives in education, healthcare, food security, and housing. The foundation prioritizes organizations demonstrating fiscal responsibility and innovative programs with significant impact potential, ensuring sustainable support for vulnerable populations, especially children and families in need.

The DAR Historic Preservation Grants, offered by the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, provide $250,000 annually to support projects that preserve historic resources and sites. Eligible applicants must secure additional funding and adhere to preservation guidelines. Projects must recognize DAR's contribution publicly and can include restoration, digitization, and conservation efforts. Preference is given to projects reflecting Colonial to Federal periods, fostering a deep appreciation for American history.

The Community Building Grant Program, managed by the Maine Community Foundation, aims to strengthen communities through diverse projects in arts, education, and human services. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and municipalities in Maine, focusing on enhancing skills and engaging community members. Grants can support new projects or operational needs, with maximum awards of $10,000. The program requires a commitment to community engagement and resource strengthening, ensuring that funding addresses local needs effectively.

The Animal Welfare Grant Program, supported by the Elmina B. Sewall Foundation, focuses on enhancing the well-being of companion animals in Maine. With an available funding pool of $1,515,000, this program aims to assist organizations that provide humane sheltering, veterinary care, and community support to keep pets with their owners. Priority is given to under-resourced organizations serving marginalized communities, ensuring that all animals are recognized for their intrinsic value and cared for responsibly.

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 Lewiston-Auburn Program Grant, supported by the Elmina B. Sewall Foundation and other funders, aims to enhance community collaboration in Lewiston and Auburn. It focuses on four priority areas: equitable municipal systems, workforce access, community health, and affordable housing. With an available funding of $1,710,000, grants will primarily support multi-year projects, encouraging partnerships that uplift youth and marginalized communities. Organizations eligible for funding must be tax-exempt and engaged in collaborative efforts.

The Nature-Based Education Program Grant aims to enhance individual well-being and community strength through equitable access to outdoor experiences and education for all Mainers. This funding supports initiatives that foster strong networks, diverse leadership, and systemic change, prioritizing organizations led by historically underrepresented groups. With a total of $1,305,000 available, grants will fund both systems-level and direct programming efforts, ensuring transformational impact within the nature-based education field.

The Rural Partnerships Program Grant, offered by the Elmina B. Sewall Foundation, aims to foster resilient rural communities in Maine through collaborative infrastructure and partnerships. With a focus on the Katahdin Region and Washington County, the foundation supports diverse initiatives including affordable housing, economic development, and climate change adaptation. Grant amounts range from $10,000 to $200,000 annually, depending on the project scope, promoting sustainable solutions to local challenges.

The John Sage Foundation supports projects that enhance the relationship between people and the natural environment, primarily in Maine. Since its inception in 1992, it has funded various initiatives, including land acquisition, water testing, and environmental education. The foundation is open to funding a range of projects but may concentrate its resources on a single entity in a grant cycle. Notably, it does not support political advocacy efforts.

The Elsie & William Viles Foundation Grant supports charitable organizations, prioritizing those in Maine's Capital Region. Established in 1990, the foundation continues the philanthropic legacy of William and Elsie Viles. Grants range from $5,000 to $25,000 and focus on preserving open spaces, protecting animals, supporting children's education, and promoting Maine's history and culture. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS code.