Best Hancock County Grants for Nonprofits in Maine

The NBRC Catalyst Program aims to stimulate economic growth in northern Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and New York by funding innovative projects that address regional economic needs. It supports initiatives like modernizing public services, enhancing transportation infrastructure, and developing workforce programs. By fostering partnerships and leveraging private investments, the program seeks to alleviate economic distress and improve rural vitality, ultimately leading to job creation and sustainable community development.

Spectrum Digital Education Grants support nonprofit organizations in educating communities about broadband benefits and usage. These grants aim to bridge the digital divide, particularly for seniors and those with disabilities or ethnically diverse backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate community partnership, address specific needs, and provide measurable impact metrics. With a focus on financial feasibility and meaningful outcomes, this initiative ensures that underrepresented urban and rural communities gain access to essential digital resources, fostering long-term improvement in their lives.

About Us

In 1971 the Legislature established the Maine Historic Preservation Commission to implement State policy to "preserve the architectural, historic and environmental heritage of the people of the State, and to develop and promote the cultural, educational and economic benefits of these resources." The Commission is an independent agency within the Executive branch of state government that functions as the State Historic Preservation Office.

Its Director serves as the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) upon appointment by the Governor. The office administers the programs of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 in Maine, which includes the identification, evaluation, and protection of the state’s significant cultural resources.

Grants

The Commission offers several grants and assists with administering several others on behalf of the National Park Service.

Certified Local Government (CLG) Grants

CLG grants are also funded by the Federal money and carry many of the same requirements as the Historic Preservation grants with one important distinction: eligible applicants are limited to the CLG certified communities in Maine.

The Maine Historic Preservation Commission is pleased to announce a second FY2025 Certified Local Government (CLG) grant round. The Commission anticipates awarding approximately $50,000 in 90/10 matching grants for architectural or archaeological surveys, public education, planning, National Register nominations or development or pre-development projects for projects located in CLG communities. The minimum grant award is $5,000.

Eligible historic buildings and sites are those that are listed in the National Register of Historic Places either individually or as contributing resources in a National Register-listed historic district.

The Commission's CLG Grant Manual provides information about eligible projects and expenses, as well as the project selection process, including selection criteria. Funding priorities for 2025 include the establishment of historic building trades training programs, conducting building condition assessments on historic buildings and helping organizations prepare plans and specifications in anticipation of building projects. A complete list of funding priorities is available in the grant manual.

Eligible applicants are limited to municipal governments with CLG status, and non-profit institutions as defined by the Internal Revenue Service applying through the municipal governments. Projects must be directed by persons with professional credentials as defined by the Department of the Interior and must be completed by June.

*Maine CLGs include Augusta, Bangor, Biddeford, Castine, Gardiner, Kennebunk, Lewiston, Portland, Saco, Topsham, and York.

The Machias Savings Bank Community Development Grant aims to support projects that enhance community wellness, education, and economic development within its primary lending area. With funding available up to $10,000 per project, the grant prioritizes initiatives that benefit low-to-moderate income individuals and families. Eligible projects include job creation, affordable housing, and community revitalization efforts. The grant is designed to foster sustainable development and support local communities in achieving their goals.

The Enbridge Safe Community First Responder Program is designed to support emergency response organizations across Canada and the U.S. by providing grants for safety equipment, training, and educational programs. Launched in 2002, it has invested over $22 million in enhancing community safety. Eligible organizations include fire departments and medical services located near Enbridge operations. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $10,000, helping improve the capabilities of first responders in rural and underserved areas.

The Island Foundation's Womxn and Girls Grant aims to support organizations that address the root causes of inequality for womxn and girls in the U.S. By focusing on innovative, community-driven solutions, the Foundation seeks to empower womxn and girls of color through initiatives that enhance access to healthcare, economic security, and political representation. With a commitment to systemic change, this grant fosters intergenerational collaborations and prioritizes sustainable organizations working towards gender equity.

The TD Bank Community Sponsorships Program, supported by the TD Charitable Foundation, provides funding for events and activities that positively impact communities from Maine to Florida. This initiative aims to enhance community awareness and foster partnerships among diverse groups, promoting economic development, cultural enrichment, and social responsibility. Organizations can apply for funding to support community-oriented programs, with applications reviewed quarterly. It's essential to submit applications at least 90 days before the event deadlines.

The Machias Savings Bank Workforce Development Grant aims to support projects that enhance job training and workforce skills within its primary lending area. With a total funding of $50,000, awarded in amounts of $25,000, $15,000, and $10,000, the grant seeks organizations that demonstrate financial stability and effective leadership. Eligible projects must align with workforce development goals, ensuring individuals gain skills for sustainable employment opportunities.

The Nonprofit Resource Training Grant offers up to $1,000 for tax-exempt organizations to send employees to essential training and conferences. This initiative supports community-based groups that serve low- to moderate-income populations and align with The Ready Commitment. By enhancing employee skills, the grant aims to strengthen nonprofits and their impact in the community, ensuring they provide valuable services effectively.

The ES Veterans Association Grant supports U.S. military service members and veterans in New England. This grant aims to enhance services through charitable giving, focusing on mental, physical, and educational support. Organizations with an EIN can apply for grants of any amount, which must align with the association's mission. The Board of Directors has the final authority on grant requests, ensuring the needs of veterans are met and their sacrifices honored.

Department of Business and Economic Affairs

The Department of Business and Economic Affairs (BEA) is the premier resource for businesses considering expansion in, or relocation to, New Hampshire, as well as people seeking a home in a place where they can balance their careers amid the natural beauty it offers.

Dedicated to enhancing the economic vitality of the state and promoting it as a destination for domestic and international visitors, BEA is comprised of the Division of Economic Development, Division of Planning & Community Development, and the Division of Travel and Tourism Development.

Within these divisions are programs that support BEA’s mission to keep the state’s economy strong and competitive, from international trade and government procurement to workforce development and municipal planning.

About NBRC

The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) is a partnership between the federal government and the states of Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. The NBRC targets resources to promote economic growth strategies and projects in designated counties within its member states. 

Mission Statement: The mission of the Northern Border Regional Commission is to catalyze community vitality and economic prosperity in the northern border region with flexible funding and strategic support.

Forest Economy Grant Program

The Forest Economy Program, administered by the Northern Border Regional Commission, makes awards in the form of Grant Agreements. The program stimulates economic growth in the forest-based industries, including new technologies and viable business models, across the NBRC four-state region in alignment with state economic development plans and forest economy initiatives. 

NBRC's Forest Economy Program (FEP) is designed to support state-identified development plans for the regional forest economy and to assist in the industry’s evolution to include new technologies and viable business models.

Forest Economy Program Priorities  

Successful projects support a broad range of initiatives such as, but not limited to:

• Public infrastructure projects that directly support the forest industry;  
• Community development projects that support the diversified use of forest for economic activity;  
• Workforce training and development projects for the purpose of building the skills and recruiting and retaining the workforce needed for forest businesses, and;
• Marketing, communication and education projects that are paired with a public infrastructure, community development or workforce training or development project.  
• Basic research projects will not be considered. Preference will be given to applied research and demonstration projects that demonstrate a strong connection to industry.

The Brooksville Education Foundation Scholarship supports residents of Brooksville, Maine, by providing financial aid for post-secondary education. Established in 2000, the foundation aims to expand educational opportunities through scholarships for students of all ages, prioritizing those with demonstrated financial need. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in accredited programs and are encouraged to apply regardless of age. If funding is limited, preference is given to returning undergraduate students and those pursuing occupational certificates.

Offshore Wind Science and Research RFP

Massachusetts remains committed to offshore wind as a key energy source to provide critically needed energy, spur economic development, and create good-paying jobs. MassCEC recognizes that offshore wind development occurs in a dynamic ocean environment that supports existing marine industries of economic and cultural importance, is inhabited by critically endangered wildlife, and is itself undergoing climate-induced changes. These variables, among others, present a wide range of technical, logistical, and analytical research opportunities related to the offshore wind industry, particularly now that several projects have or soon will reach commercial operation. Focused science and research activities, and the organizational capacity to conduct that science and research, are needed in the near- and long-term to inform, optimize, and catalyze industry growth.   

The 2026 RFP will fund up to $2.5 million for projects aligned with priority research areas identified by MassCEC. While a broad array of research projects will be eligible to apply, this round of funding has also specified topic areas of interest within each of the following categories:

• Fisheries: Understanding Effects in Southern New England Lease Areas
• Wildlife and Habitat
• Regional Transmission Planning
• Gulf of Maine Regional Monitoring
• Communicating Existing Science and Research

MassCEC has allocated up to $2.5 Million Dollars ($2,500,000) in funding for awards and commitments under the Solicitation. We expect that awards will range from approximately $50,000 to $500,000. An application proposing higher amounts of MassCEC funding must present a compelling case for the funding need and potential outcomes toward achieving the Objectives.

The TD Charitable Foundation has been dedicated to improving community quality of life since 2002, contributing over $254 million to non-profit organizations. They fund initiatives aligned with their corporate citizenship goals, focusing on Better Health, Connected Communities, Financial Security, and Vibrant Planet. Special consideration is given to programs that support inclusivity for diverse and historically underserved communities. Their commitment to enhancing lives through targeted grants reflects their core values and social responsibility.

The Enbridge Community Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in North American communities through strategic donations and sponsorships. With funding ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, the grant supports organizations focused on safety, education, environmental stewardship, and Indigenous culture. Enbridge encourages early applications, with decisions typically made within eight weeks. The grant seeks to empower local initiatives that foster community strength, vibrancy, and sustainability.

Maine Sea Grant Undergraduate Scholarship in Marine Sciences

In partnership with undergraduate institutions throughout the state, Maine Sea Grant is recruiting applications for its annual Undergraduate Scholarship in Marine Sciences. The goals of this scholarship program are:  

• Provide support for tuition or other academic or research-related expenses.
• Develop a statewide network of undergraduate scholars doing exemplary academic work on marine and coastal issues.
• Offer participating students academic and professional development opportunities.
• Create mutually beneficial outcomes for students, partner institutions, and Maine Sea Grant. 

Award

Each applicant selected for this award will receive a $2,000 scholarship to support tuition or other academic or research-related expenses. This award is made possible through a matching grant program in which each $1,000 award from Maine Sea Grant is matched with a $1,000 award from the selected applicant’s home institution.

The Nellie Mae Event Sponsorship Fund supports one-time events that promote education justice and racial equity in New England. Organizations targeting local communities, with annual budgets under $2 million, can apply for funding for events scheduled in 2025 or early 2026. The foundation prioritizes public entities and 501(c)3 educational organizations, ensuring equitable access to educational opportunities for all students. Note that operational costs and online fundraising are not eligible for funding.

The Strater Downeast Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Washington County and Sumner Memorial High School in Sullivan. This fund aids students pursuing post-secondary education at select colleges, including the University of Maine and Maine Maritime Academy. Recipients must be enrolled full-time and can apply for renewal upon completing a two-year degree at Washington County Community College. The Maine Community Foundation has been enhancing education access since 1984.

The KeyBank Foundation offers Community Sponsorships to support local organizations in their fundraising efforts. These sponsorships range from $500 to $5,000 and can fund events or provide general operating support. Applications are accepted from January to October, with a decision made within 90 days. Eligible nonprofits must serve areas where KeyBank operates and adhere to strict ineligibility criteria, including no support for individuals or organizations that discriminate based on various identities.

The Housing for Everyone Grant Competition, part of the 2026 Initiative, aims to support eviction prevention in low-to moderate-income communities. This 20th annual initiative recognizes the destabilizing impact of eviction and displacement on families, which leads to job loss, school disruptions, and health issues. By funding innovative organizations, the competition seeks to provide stability for renters, enabling them to stay in their homes and communities.

Coast Guard Foundation

Founded in 1969, we’re a vital partner to the U.S. Coast Guard—tackling the toughest challenges confronting our heroes.

We’re there for members from enlistment to long after retirement, and our work strengthens the entire community. Through close collaboration with Coast Guard leadership, we’re able to respond to new and emerging needs effectively. Our investments support families, bolster unit morale, honor the Coast Guard’s mission at the national level, and more. Every day, Coast Guard members risk their lives to protect our country. When we stand together and show them our appreciation, we can ensure they remain always ready—no matter what.

Children of Enlisted Member Scholarship - First-Time Applicant

Description

Scholarship for Children of Enlisted Coast Guard Members and Retirees.

This application is intended for first-time applicants only.

Support for education is a cornerstone of our commitment to the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard and their families.

If you are the child of an active duty, retired, or active reserve Coast Guard member you are eligible to apply..

Scholarship Overview

Since 1980, the Northern New York Community Foundation has awarded more than $28 million in scholarships to students from Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties.

Evergreen STEM Scholarship

The Evergreen STEM Scholarship is a $3,000 award for the first year of undergraduate study. Scholarship award decisions will be made in the summer 2026. Scholarship award checks are not presented until summer 2027 as students head to college.

Coast Guard Foundation

Founded in 1969, we’re a vital partner to the U.S. Coast Guard—tackling the toughest challenges confronting our heroes.

We’re there for members from enlistment to long after retirement, and our work strengthens the entire community. Through close collaboration with Coast Guard leadership, we’re able to respond to new and emerging needs effectively. Our investments support families, bolster unit morale, honor the Coast Guard’s mission at the national level, and more. Every day, Coast Guard members risk their lives to protect our country. When we stand together and show them our appreciation, we can ensure they remain always ready—no matter what.

Children of Enlisted Member Scholarship - Returning Scholar Application

Description

Scholarship for Children of Enlisted Coast Guard Members and Retirees

This application is intended for returning/renewal applicants only.

Support for education is a cornerstone of our commitment to the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard and their families.

If you are the child of an active duty, retired, or active reserve Coast Guard member you are eligible to apply. 

When we began the scholarship program in 1990, we focused on one goal — providing Coast Guard families the opportunity to send their children to college. Since that time, the cost of higher education has sky-rocketed, making our original aspiration even more relevant for today’s Coast Guard families.

Central Alabama Community Foundation

Established in 1987 by community leaders, the Central Alabama Community Foundation serves the River Region counties of Lowndes, Macon, and Montgomery. CACF was created to provide a permanent charitable resource dedicated to strengthening nonprofits and meeting local needs in the Montgomery area.

Through a variety of funds, CACF supports projects and programs in education, health, human services, cultural arts, recreation, historic preservation, and other civic concerns.

Every year, CACF awards grants to nonprofit projects and programs providing services in Lee, Macon, and Montgomery counties.

Kiwanis Club of Montgomery Scholarship

This renewable scholarship is available to graduating high school seniors in Montgomery County who are planning to attend an accredited college or university. Although there is no minimum ACT or SAT score, students must indicate by their academic performance the ability or motivation to graduate from college. Preference is given to students demonstrating financial need. Consideration is also given to students’ leadership, character, ability and participation in extracurricular activities. Scholarships will be awarded annually and are renewable for up to three years depending upon the student’s academic performance.

Central Alabama Community Foundation

Established in 1987 by community leaders, the Central Alabama Community Foundation serves the River Region counties of Lowndes, Macon, and Montgomery. CACF was created to provide a permanent charitable resource dedicated to strengthening nonprofits and meeting local needs in the Montgomery area.

Through a variety of funds, CACF supports projects and programs in education, health, human services, cultural arts, recreation, historic preservation, and other civic concerns.

Every year, CACF awards grants to nonprofit projects and programs providing services in Lee, Macon, and Montgomery counties.

Kyle Leonard Memorial Scholarship

Established in memory of Kyle Leonard, the fund will award a $1,500 scholarship to one graduate of any high school located within Houston County. The award will be based on academic achievement, as a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required, as well as school and community involvement.

About 

The U.S.-Arab Frontiers 2026 symposium will be held in partnership with Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences, and hosted in Kuwait City, Kuwait, October 25-27, 2026. The meeting will convene U.S. and Arab scientists, engineers, and medical professionals to discuss major scientific advances on a wide array of topics relevant to the MENA region and globally.

Description

Based on the success of NAS's Kavli Frontiers of Science Program and NAE's Frontiers of Engineering, the U.S.-Arab Frontiers of Science, Engineering, and Medicine program will initiate a series of symposia to bring together young scientists, engineers, and medical professionals from the United States and 22 Arab countries to discuss exciting advances and opportunities in their fields. The program will:

• Enhance the scientific exchange and dialogue among young researchers in Arab countries and the United States, including the Arab science diaspora, through the initial meeting and the consequent development of a strong and active alumni network (supported through an online portal);
• Encourage and strengthen scientific collaboration within and beyond the region (further encouraged through small seed grants); and
• Empower young scientists.

Drawing from the scientific, engineering, and medical resources in the Arab region, each symposium will be designed to discuss cutting-edge research but also research in areas of critical importance to the region (such as water resource management, renewable energies, food security, and sustainability), that will help build capacities in participating Arab countries.

Every Frontiers symposium will be hosted by organizations in Arab countries and the U.S. to ensure that it truly is a multilateral program. Science and engineering academies in the Arab world as well as other scientific organizations will be asked to identify possible attendees. The symposia will be independent of each other.

An ad-hoc oversight committee, consisting of well-recognized U.S. and Arab scientists and including the NAS, NAE, or NAM International Secretary depending on the topic, will provide overall guidance to the program staff; provide input on future session themes of critical relevance to the Arab region and the United States; and review all applicants and nominees for the symposia prior to selection by the organizing committee.

Each symposium will be evaluated by the organizers and participants. In addition, long-term impacts of the program (increased research cooperation resulting from the networking opportunities provided at the symposia) will be evaluated at the completion of five symposia.

U.S.-Arab Frontiers of Science, Engineering, and Medicine

Based on the success of NAS's Kavli Frontiers of Science Program and NAE's Frontiers of Engineering, the U.S-Arab Frontiers of Science, Engineering, and Medicine program will initiate a series of symposia to bring together young scientists (under the age of 45) from the United States and 22 Arab countries to discuss exciting advances and opportunities in their fields.

Award details

This symposium will explore plenary topics of:

• Bioinformatics
• Computational Methodologies for Scientific Discovery
• Metabolism–Immunity Interactions
• Water Security
• Space Technologies

Central Alabama Community Foundation

Established in 1987 by community leaders, the Central Alabama Community Foundation serves the River Region counties of Lowndes, Macon, and Montgomery. CACF was created to provide a permanent charitable resource dedicated to strengthening nonprofits and meeting local needs in the Montgomery area.

Through a variety of funds, CACF supports projects and programs in education, health, human services, cultural arts, recreation, historic preservation, and other civic concerns.

Every year, CACF awards grants to nonprofit projects and programs providing services in Lee, Macon, and Montgomery counties.

National Village Ladies Club Scholarship

The National Village Ladies Club Scholarship benefits female graduating high school seniors of Opelika high schools who have demonstrated leadership and community service. Eligible applicants must have a minimum 3.2 GPA and plan to attend two-year or four-year college, university, or trade school.