Best Franklin County Grants for Nonprofits in Maine

The Rice Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation in 1996, offers scholarships to students who have spent significant time on Maine's offshore islands and are pursuing higher education. This fund supports residents from both offshore and bridged islands, encouraging them to further their education at accredited institutions. Selection is based on financial need and commitment to community service, ensuring support for deserving students in Maine.

The Patriot Education Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, supports Maine high school graduates pursuing a business degree in Maine. Launched in 2007, this scholarship aims to assist students enrolled part-time or full-time in accredited institutions. With a preference for candidates interested in the insurance profession, it embodies the spirit of community support and investment in education, providing vital financial assistance to help students achieve their academic goals.

The Marion Joy Morse Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, offers financial assistance to individuals pursuing education in medical fields. Eligible applicants must have been born on Mount Desert Island or attended a school there. This scholarship can be renewed at the discretion of the Advisory Committee. Since 1984, the foundation has awarded over $3 million annually through nearly 700 scholarship funds, supporting Maine residents in their educational endeavors.

The Lydia R. Laurendeau Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation in 2013, offers renewable scholarships to young women from Maine pursuing degrees in science or engineering at four-year universities. This initiative supports female graduates aiming for careers in these fields, emphasizing the importance of education and community investment. Preference is given to applicants with Franco-American heritage, promoting diversity and inclusion in STEM education.

The K. William Wiseman Engineering Scholarship, established by the Maine Community Foundation, aims to support graduating seniors from Maine high schools pursuing engineering degrees at accredited colleges or universities. This renewable scholarship fund is part of the foundation's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities, providing financial assistance to students in need. Since its inception in 1983, the Maine Community Foundation has awarded over $3 million annually through nearly 700 scholarship funds, fostering educational growth and community leadership in Maine.

The Joseph W. Mayo ALS Scholarship Fund, established by friends of Mr. Mayo, supports students who are children or caregivers of ALS patients. Funded by the Maine Community Foundation, it aims to assist Maine residents pursuing higher education, including colleges and technical schools. With a commitment to education, this scholarship honors Mr. Mayo's legacy as a public servant and aims to empower future generations through financial assistance.

The Level 2 Fair Housing Grant, offered by the National Association of Realtors, supports initiatives addressing fair housing issues within communities. With a maximum award of $7,500, this grant encourages associations to collaborate with local organizations to enhance outreach. Approved activities may include hosting educational symposiums, developing fair housing curricula, or creating promotional materials. This grant aims to foster inclusive communities by addressing housing opportunities and promoting awareness of fair housing rights.

The Level 1 Rural Outreach Grant, offered by the National Association of Realtors, aims to enhance REALTORS®' understanding of rural issues. With a maximum award of $3,000, this grant is available once per calendar year to associations. It supports educational efforts and promotes smart growth and diversity in rural communities. Grant recipients are required to complete an evaluation form for the funded activities, ensuring accountability and effectiveness in addressing rural challenges.

The Level 1 Housing Opportunity Grants, provided by the National Association of Realtors, aim to enhance education on housing affordability for REALTORS® and the community. Grants of up to $3,000 support various initiatives, including forums, speakers, and stakeholder meetings. This initiative encourages collaboration and knowledge sharing to address pressing housing issues and promote affordability in communities. Eligible associations can receive one grant annually, with reimbursement requests due by December 19, 2025.

The Level 1 Fair Housing Grant, offered by the National Association of REALTORS®, supports initiatives aimed at educating REALTORS® on fair housing issues. Grants can fund classes, forums, or workshops, with a maximum award of $3,000. Starting in 2025, the grant will also support expenses related to the At Home With Diversity class to align with new training requirements. This initiative ensures REALTORS® have the resources to promote diversity and inclusion in their communities.

The SOT Science Policy Leadership Award honors elected officials who advocate for scientific research that protects health and the environment. By recognizing individuals who support public policy that advances safety for people and animals, this award promotes the importance of science in decision-making processes. The Society of Toxicology aims to highlight the contributions of leaders in science policy, encouraging further advancements in health and safety research while fostering a collaborative relationship between science and government.

The Experiential Opportunities Career Development Award, funded by the Society of Toxicology, provides up to $1,000 to support underrepresented undergraduate and graduate students, as well as postbaccalaureate researchers, in enhancing their education and career development in toxicology. Created in 2009, this initiative aims to promote diversity in the field. Four awards may be granted at each deadline, with funds supporting activities occurring by July 31 of the current fiscal year.

The Turtle Trackers - Linda Zambelli Family Scholarship Fund, established in 2025 by the Turtle Trackers Board, honors Linda Zambelli's legacy through scholarships for students pursuing higher education in Marine Biology and Environmental Sciences. This initiative supports high school seniors from Beaufort and Jasper Counties, ensuring they have opportunities to excel academically while fostering a commitment to marine conservation. The fund is managed by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, which has invested over $125 million in local communities.

The TidePointe Community Educational Scholarship, established by the residents of TidePointe, supports employees and their dependents pursuing secondary or post-secondary education. This initiative reflects the community's generosity and commitment to academic achievement. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal residents, work at least 12 hours a week at TidePointe, and have maintained good employment records. This scholarship empowers individuals to achieve their educational ambitions, fostering growth and opportunity within the Lowcountry community.

The John A. Kilpatrick Memorial Scholarship, established in 2016 by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, supports qualified recipients pursuing post-secondary education. This scholarship is specifically for current or former members of the U.S. Marine Corps who have been stationed at Parris Island, SC, with a preference for applicants who have lived in New Jersey. The foundation has dedicated over $125 million to enhance the Lowcountry community since its inception.

The Jim and Marge Krum Foundation Scholarship, established in 2003, aims to support outstanding high school seniors from Hilton Head Island and Bluffton who demonstrate academic excellence and significant community service. Funded by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, this scholarship fosters a lifelong commitment to community leadership among recipients, ensuring they remain connected through their shared dedication to service. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.25 and be accepted into an accredited college or university.

The Sarah Creech Performing Arts Scholarship, established in 2013 by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, honors the memory of Sarah Creech. This scholarship aims to support high school seniors and college students from Beaufort County pursuing post-secondary education in the performing arts. With a mission to strengthen community ties and provide educational opportunities, the foundation plays a vital role in enhancing the lives of Lowcountry residents through philanthropic leadership.

The Richard H. and Ann M. Gerken Scholarship, established in 2013 by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, aims to support qualified students pursuing post-secondary education in nursing or medicine. Eligible applicants must be residents of Hilton Head Island, graduating from a local high school with a minimum GPA of 3.0. This scholarship reflects the foundation's commitment to enriching the lives of Lowcountry citizens through education and healthcare.

The Palmetto Bluff Inspiring The Arts Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, aims to support talented high school seniors from Beaufort, Jasper, or Chatham County in pursuing post-secondary education in the arts. With a minimum GPA requirement of 3.5, this scholarship encourages students dedicated to artistic fields to further their education and career aspirations, empowering them to make a significant impact in the creative community.

The Oak Advisors Scholarship of Excellence, offered by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, supports southern Beaufort County high school seniors pursuing a major in business, economics, or finance. Established by philanthropic leaders, the scholarship recognizes students for their academic achievements, talents, and community involvement. With a minimum GPA of 3.2 required, this scholarship aims to empower students to make a positive impact in their communities.

The Mina Larson and Mandas S. Mulrain Scholarship, established in 2005 by Mr. Sam Mulrain, honors the legacy of his wife, Mina Larson Mulrain. This scholarship aims to support high school seniors from southern Beaufort County who exhibit exceptional determination in their academic pursuits. With a focus on financial need and a minimum GPA of 3.0, it empowers deserving students to achieve their post-secondary educational goals, fostering leadership and community engagement.

The Marc Chary Scholarship Program, established in 2025 by Mr. Marc Chary, aims to support African American high school seniors from Southern Beaufort and Jasper Counties in South Carolina. This scholarship is focused on those with financial need pursuing post-secondary education. With a commitment to enhancing educational opportunities, the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry continues to empower students to achieve their academic goals, fostering a thriving community through dedicated philanthropic efforts.

The Lucrecia C. Lester Memorial Scholarship, established in 2015 by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, provides financial assistance to high school seniors from Colleton, Hampton, Jasper, or Beaufort Counties in South Carolina. This scholarship aims to support students pursuing post-secondary education, emphasizing financial need and academic determination. The foundation has invested over $125 million in the Lowcountry since its inception, striving to enhance community well-being through philanthropic leadership.

The Live Like D.J. – Dwon Fields Jr. Scholarship, established in 2021 by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, honors Dwon Fields, Jr. This scholarship supports high school seniors and recent graduates from Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, and Jasper Counties, who demonstrate kindness and compassion. By fostering educational opportunities, this fund aims to empower students to make a positive impact in their communities, reflecting the values exemplified by D.J. throughout his life.

The Gracie Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, aims to support natives of Washington County in their pursuit of post-secondary education and community service. Offering tuition reimbursement and school loan repayment awards up to $5,000, the fund encourages graduates to return to their roots and contribute to local development. Applicants must commit to living and working in Washington County for at least two years while fulfilling community service obligations, fostering a strong connection to their home.

The Friendship Memorial Scholarship Fund, established in 1967 and managed by the Maine Community Foundation, supports high school seniors from Friendship, Maine, in pursuing post-secondary education. This scholarship aims to empower local students by providing financial assistance for their educational endeavors. Since its transition to the Maine Community Foundation in 2007, it has continued to foster educational opportunities for residents, ensuring that the legacy of community support remains strong.

The Emily Trussell Stupak Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from high schools in Penobscot, Piscataquis, and Hancock Counties. It aims to assist those pursuing higher education at accredited colleges or universities, particularly those who have shown dedication and talent in their chosen athletic pursuits. This fund exemplifies the Foundation's commitment to fostering educational opportunities and community support, making a positive impact on students' futures.