Best Grants for Charities in Maine

The Special Event Grant, provided by the Maine Office of Tourism, aims to enhance the state's tourism economy by funding established events that attract new audiences and increase overnight stays. Grants range from $30,000 to $60,000, with two awards issued each fiscal year. Eligible applicants include Maine municipalities and 501C3 or C6 organizations, focusing on tourism projects that draw visitors from at least fifty miles away, promoting Maine's brand during the shoulder season.

The Honor Medal Award, presented by the Maine Education Association, recognizes an MEA member who has exemplified courage in defending academic freedom and upholding the rights of educators. This award acknowledges those who risk their personal welfare for professional integrity, demonstrating a commitment to equity and educational excellence. The MEA, representing a diverse body of educators, aims to honor members who advocate for improved conditions and support for their colleagues and students across Maine.

The NCDDG program supports innovative research aiming to discover and develop new treatments for mental disorders, including substance use and alcohol use disorders. This initiative encourages collaborations between academic and industry partners to advance neurostimulation techniques and drug/device development. Applicants are invited to submit proposals that focus on specific projects utilizing the U01 mechanism, with a clear emphasis on rationally designed candidate agents and cutting-edge technologies. Letters of Intent are encouraged 30 days prior to the submission deadline.

About Us

The Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is a bureau of the Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management.

At the State level MEMA coordinates the mitigation (risk reduction) preparedness, response and recovery from emergencies and disasters such as floods, hurricanes, earthquakes or hazardous materials spills.

MEMA also provides guidance, and assistance to county and local governments, businesses and nonprofit organizations in their efforts to provide protection to citizen and property, and increase resiliency in the face of disaster. The Agency uses strategies such as planning, training, exercise and public education to carry out its mission.

Since 2001, MEMA has been the focal point for the implementation of programs regarding Homeland Security, integrating these concerns into its all-hazard mission.

Maine Nonprofit Security Grant Program

This is a competitive grant program designed to assist nonprofit organizations in enhancing physical security and preparedness capabilities against potential threats or attacks and is separate from the FEMA NSGP. Eligible Activities May Include:

• Physical security enhancements
• Security equipment installation
• Target-hardening projects
• Contracted Security services

The National Cooperative Drug/Device Discovery/Development Groups (NCDDG) program invites applications to foster innovative research in treating mental disorders and substance use issues. This initiative promotes collaboration between academia and industry, supporting diverse, multidisciplinary projects aimed at developing rational therapies and neurostimulation techniques. Applicants are encouraged to submit Letters of Intent 30 days before the proposal deadline to enhance project alignment with funding goals.

The Acadia Science Fellowship aims to protect Acadia's environmental and cultural heritage through innovative research and public engagement. This fellowship supports early-career scientists and encourages projects relevant to resource management and long-term stewardship of Acadia National Park. With funding of up to $30,000 for one to three years, the initiative seeks to strengthen public understanding of science's importance for parks and society, fostering curiosity and concern for national parks.

The NE-AIPG Angelo Tagliacozzo Memorial Geological Scholarship (ATMGS) supports junior and senior undergraduate geology students in the NE Section, honoring Angelo Tagliacozzo's legacy. Established in 1986, the scholarship aims to encourage young geologists to pursue careers in geological sciences. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in accredited programs, on track for required credit hours, and can only receive the scholarship once. This initiative fosters early engagement with AIPG, emphasizing professional affiliation and support for the next generation of geologists.

The Leroy Lambert Political Action Grants, offered by the Maine Education Association, empower Local Association members to create and execute political action programs in their communities. These grants support initiatives that align with MEA policies, such as aiding the election of pro-education candidates and enhancing member participation in political processes. Through these efforts, the MEA aims to advocate for educators and ensure equitable educational opportunities for all students in Maine.

The Maine Education Association is committed to advocating for quality education and supporting professional educators. As part of its mission, MEA is offering Read Across America Incentive Grants, providing $50 each to local associations for reading events. This initiative aims to promote literacy and community engagement, ensuring that every student has access to enriching educational activities. Grants will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, with applications submitted by local association Presidents.

The Creative Communities Grant, offered by the Maine Arts Commission, supports arts and cultural projects that benefit Maine communities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and municipalities. Projects must be community-focused and accessible to the public, with funding requiring a 1-to-1 match. The grant aims to enhance community access to the arts, promote diversity and inclusion, and support local cultural initiatives that reflect the unique identities of Maine's communities.

The Will Rogers Motion Picture Pioneers Assistance Fund offers crucial financial support and counseling for individuals in the theatrical exhibition and distribution sectors facing health-related challenges. This fund assists with medical expenses, housing emergencies, and essential services like vocational rehabilitation and equipment aid. Eligible applicants must have a minimum of three years in exhibition or five years in distribution. The fund aims to provide a safety net for those impacted by illness, injury, or significant life changes.

The Pipeline Grants Competition by the Russell Sage Foundation aims to bolster early-career scholars and enhance diversity in the social sciences. It supports innovative research focusing on economic mobility and systemic inequalities in the U.S. Eligible applicants can receive up to $35,000 individually or $50,000 in teams. The foundation emphasizes methodological diversity and interdisciplinary collaboration, encouraging novel data usage. Projects should align with RSF's mission to improve social conditions, prioritizing underrepresented scholars from under-resourced institutions.

The Centers of Biomedical Research Excellence: Development Phase (COBRE-D) program aims to enhance biomedical research capacity in IDeA states, which historically receive low NIH funding. By providing critical support for early-career investigators and essential infrastructure, COBRE-D facilitates a long-term vision for institutions. This initiative not only supplements start-up packages for new hires but also establishes research facilities and improves administrative services, paving the way for less-resourced institutions to transition into the COBRE E/S program.

The HDR Foundation Grant Cycle supports community organizations aligned with HDR's values, focusing on education, healthy communities, and environmental stewardship. This employee-funded initiative emphasizes the importance of employee engagement in grant proposals, requiring a clear scope of work and completion within a year. Eligible applicants include U.S.-based nonprofits, educational institutions, and tribal governments, while grants are not provided for faith-based organizations or individual support.

Kiwanis Foundation of New England

The Kiwanis Foundation of New England (KFNE) was established in 1953 to be the fundraising arm of the New England District of Kiwanis. Since its inception, KFNE has raised and distributed millions of dollars.The Kiwanis Foundation of New England (KFNE) has as its essential mission “Improving the world one child and one community at a time”. KFNE has a long history of providing a variety of programs and community service projects that benefit the youth of New England.

Kiwanis Foundation of New England Grant Program

• The Kiwanis Foundation of New England (KFNE) Club Grant Program is open to any Kiwanis Club of the New England and Bermuda District in good standing. Requesting clubs should submit a written proposal no more than three pages in length.

• The greatest consideration/weight will be given to those proposals that benefit the largest number of children.

• Additional weight will be assigned to those requests that are original or innovative in nature (i.e. a dream or something the writer/submitter has always wanted to do but was restricted due to financial constraints) vs. those that are for supplies or basic materials.

• Extra weight will be also be assigned to those projects/programs where matching funds would be used to leverage the grant that would be received.

• Awards will be limited to no more than $1,000, although the Committee reserves the right to recommend higher amounts in extraordinary circumstances. No Kiwanis Club may receive more than $1,000 in grants within a three-year period.

• The committee will bring its recommendations to the KFNE Board meeting three times a year.

The Anne Sheehan Political Action Award, offered by the Maine Education Association, recognizes members who have shown exceptional commitment to advocating for public education. This award highlights the importance of political engagement in education, honoring those who actively participate in elections, lobbying, and community initiatives. Through this grant, the MEA aims to support educators dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities and ensuring equitable conditions for all students in Maine.

The Maine Arts Commission is seeking applicants for the role of Maine State Poet Laureate, a five-year appointment starting July 1, 2026. This prestigious program, established in 1995, aims to honor a distinguished Maine poet and promote poetry statewide. The selected laureate will engage the community through various initiatives and receive an annual honorarium of $5,000. Eligible candidates must be full-time Maine residents with a notable body of poetic work.

The Mutual Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants in Maine provide funding for organizations to assist very-low- and low-income families in building their own homes through self-help projects. This program empowers participants by allowing them to contribute labor while receiving necessary technical support. Eligible applicants include government organizations, federally recognized tribes, and private nonprofits. Funds may be used for technical assistance, recruitment, and enabling participation in the housing program.

The Child Health Research Awards Program, funded by the Charles H. Hood Foundation, aims to support young investigators in pediatric research. It provides two-year grants of $200,000 to newly independent faculty, encouraging creativity and the transition to other funding sources. This initiative is pivotal in advancing children's health by fostering innovative research projects in New England, ultimately enhancing the well-being of children and families through early career support and funding opportunities.

Cherokee Nation Foundation

The Cherokee Nation Foundation is a nonprofit organization serving the Cherokee Nation, a federally recognized tribe of more than 470,000 citizens. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities to Cherokee students so they can reach their full potential. The Cherokee Nation Foundation is a tax-exempt charitable organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Scholarships

Cherokee Nation Foundation offers a diverse range of scholarships to help reverse the trend of rising student debt. Students may receive up to two CNF scholarships per academic year. All opportunities are reserved for Cherokee Nation citizens, unless otherwise noted in the description.

Clarkson Family Scholarship

Applicant must be a current full-time student or a graduating high school senior with a minimum 3.0 GPA, attending a college/university or higher education institution in New England (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island or Vermont). This is a one-year scholarship reserved for Cherokee Nation citizens.

The Daniel Cardillo Charitable Fund, established in 1999 by the Maine Community Foundation, honors the spirit and passion of Dan Cardillo, a compassionate young man. This fund provides scholarships to Maine youth pursuing artistic, academic, athletic, and vocational passions outside traditional education. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, commitment to their goals, and compassion for others. The Maine Community Foundation has been a pillar of support since 1983, awarding over $3 million annually to foster education and community engagement.

The Friend of Education Award honors individuals in elected or appointed positions who significantly contribute to public education in Maine. It is presented by the Maine Education Association, which advocates for educators' rights and aims to ensure equitable education for all students. Nominations are open to any Maine resident holding such a position, recognizing their advocacy at local, state, or national levels. This award highlights the importance of supporting educators and improving educational standards.

The Northeast Delta Dental Foundation grants aim to enhance oral health care access and education in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. The Foundation supports initiatives that focus on improving awareness of good oral health, preventive care, and accessibility of dental services. Grants typically cover one year and prioritize projects that serve disadvantaged populations. The Foundation encourages applications from 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations that align with its oral health mission.

The 1772 Foundation, alongside Maine Preservation, offers Maine Historic Preservation Matching Grants of up to $10,000 for various historic preservation projects. Applicants must submit a maintenance plan and a conditions assessment, ensuring sustainability of historic sites. Eligible organizations must hold a 501(c)(3) IRS designation and have completed any previous grants. Funding excludes buildings used as schools or places of worship, focusing instead on exterior restoration, fire system upgrades, and structural repairs.

The Maine Artist Fellowship in Performing Arts celebrates artistic excellence among Maine artists. It offers merit-based awards to individuals or collectives, focusing on creativity and vision. The fellowship provides unrestricted financial support, promotional opportunities, and networking events to advance the artist's career. Eligible artists include those in theatre, dance, music, and other live performance genres. One artist per discipline will be selected, fostering a diverse cohort of seven Maine Artist Fellows.

The Maine Artist Fellowship in Literary Arts recognizes the exceptional talent of Maine artists across various writing genres, including fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. This merit-based fellowship offers unrestricted funding to help artists advance their careers. Selected fellows gain visibility through Maine Arts Commission publications and year-long promotional support, culminating in a Fellowship Reception. Eligibility includes being a Maine resident, at least 25 years old, and not currently enrolled in school. This opportunity fosters community and collaboration among artists.

The Maine Artist Fellowship in Visual Arts honors exceptional talent among Maine artists, providing unrestricted awards to advance their careers. Selected artists will receive year-long promotion, inclusion in digital publications, and opportunities for networking and collaboration. This merit-based fellowship is open to individual artists or collectives, with specific eligibility criteria, including residency requirements and age restrictions. The fellowship culminates in a reception with Maine Arts Staff, fostering community and artistic growth.