Best Grants for Charities in Maine

Mission

The Social Science Research Council (SSRC) is an independent, international, nonprofit organization founded in 1923. The Council fosters innovative research, nurtures new generations of social scientists, deepens how inquiry is practiced within and across disciplines, and mobilizes necessary knowledge on important public issues.

Driving University Impact: Expanding the Public Exchange Network

With generous support from the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, the Social Science Research Council is pleased to invite U.S. R1 research universities in SSRC’s College and University Fund for the Social Sciences to apply for funding to join the Public Exchange Network. Public Exchange is a new network that turns university research expertise into real-world action and impact. Foundedat the University of Southern California in 2020 and expanded to Washington University in St. Louis in 2025, Public Exchange connects researchers with government, nonprofit, and industry partners to tackle pressing challenges—from disaster recovery and climate solutions to food insecurity and homelessness prevention. Since its founding, Public Exchange has developed high-impact collaborations between 48 partners and 142 researchers including:

• CLEAN LA and CLEAN STL: One of the largest free soil testing programs for lead in Los Angeles County following the January 2025 wildfires, and a related program in St. Louis to test soil and air for contaminants following the May 2025 EF-3 tornado;
• The California Solar Canal Initiative: An ambitious public-private research collaboration to advance solar panel infrastructure along California’s 4,000 miles of open aqueduct, conserving water and generating renewable energy;
• Food Base LA: LA County’s first food systems data dashboard, helping LA County and non-profit partners target distribution of millions of pounds of food and related resources to families experiencing food insecurity;
• ShadeLA: A people-powered campaign to cool Los Angeles ahead of the 2028 Olympics and Paralympics by advancing natural and built shade cover in the region.

Partners have included the City and County of Los Angeles, the State of California, the City of St. Louis, Yelp, Solar AquaGrid, the United Nations Foundation, Keck Medicine of USC, the Southern California Association of Governments, Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency, the Sustainable Entertainment Alliance, the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, Department of Angels and many more. In addition to real-world impact positively affecting millions of lives, Public Exchange collaborations have resulted in over $18m in research funding, some helping to incubate new centers or areas of research, more than 40 academic journal publications, hundreds of media hits, and dozens of student career opportunities. 

The Public Exchange Model

Public Exchange is a partner-driven program, working collaboratively with external partners to: (1) define a research scope, timeline, and deliverables; (2) identify the right team of multidisciplinary academic experts to analyze the problem; (3) provide project management from concept and strategy development to project outputs and tools delivery; and (4) manage the public and stakeholder engagement related to the project, as well as communications and design needs. Public Exchange staff are not researchers, but come from government, industry, and non-profit backgrounds, uniquely equipping project teams to understand partners’ needs and lead projects to action. Staff oversee activities including partnership and proposal development, funder cultivation, research translation, dissemination, and communications, impact and scaling strategy, administrative support, cross-sector convening, and more, to maximize the real-world impact of university expertise. Public Exchange builds results-driven teams that deliver measurable impact and lasting solutions for partners.

How the Public Exchange Network Works

No single university – even a large R1 – has enough faculty expertise available to meet the needs of every partner. The Public Exchange Network was designed to help universities work together seamlessly to build robust partnerships and generate more collective impact. Universities joining the network are independent but affiliated members, with full control over their own program and project portfolios. As a national network with local, on-the-ground capacity, Public Exchange Network members can also share approaches that work, scale solutions to common problems, and build cross-regional partnerships together. 

As an institutional partner in the Public Exchange Network, universities will build capacity to develop, test and implement solutions to the most urgent problems in their regions and beyond. Universities joining the Public Exchange Network get:

• The tools, templates and training they need to start right away;
• A shared brand they can plug into on day one;
• A network of faculty, past and potential partners and philanthropic relationships, benefitting everyone in the network. 

SSRC Public Exchange Network Expansion Grants

Public Exchange Network Expansion grants will cover 75-80% of the minimum estimated annual costs for two years to launch a new Public Exchange. To launch a Public Exchange, universities must have the following in place: (1) a staff executive director with experience launching and leading social impact partnerships, (2) a project seed fund, and (3) a modest operations budget. We also recommend some in-kind project management support from an existing university staff member. The grant includes a two-year Public Exchange Executive Director (ED) compensation subsidy of $300,000 to launch the Public Exchange on campus, and a 2-year license to use the Public Exchange brand. New Public Exchange Network members will also receive ongoing support and guidance from current Public Exchange leadership and staff at USC and WashU, including recruitment support and intensive training for hiring and onboarding an executive director, a sub-site on the Public Exchange website, incubation and project management support from current Public Exchange staff, and a suite of tools for developing and implementing Public Exchange projects.

In addition, every university in the Public Exchange Network benefits from central communications support (currently housed at USC), and access to a collaborative network of project partners, researchers, and funder relationships. Separately, SSRC will select a local research fellow to study and document how the Public Exchange model develops within and between host institutions during the grant term, and how the Public Exchange Network universities work together to effect larger-scale change. 

Expectations

Institutions selected to join the Public Exchange Network are expected to:

• Hire an Executive Director who can launch and lead efforts to incubate social impact projects with public and private sector partners;
• Have in place before public launch: (1) an executive director, (2) a seed fund, (3) a modest operations budget, and (4 – recommended) some in-kind project management support. 
• Develop and sustain at least three high-impact research partnerships during the two-year grant tenure;
• Invest modest resources during the grant term that demonstrate commitment to continuing the Public Exchange model after the end of philanthropic support. This is estimated at approximately $85-$90k annually (with some variation considering local labor markets) to support an operations and project seed fund and any additional capital needed for the Executive Director hire beyond the subsidy. 
• Coordinate with the SSRC research fellow who will examine the impact of Public Exchange at their university and across the network. 
• Work with faculty across their university. Public Exchange can live anywhere within a university at the school or central level. The majority of Public Exchange projects to date at USC and WashU have included researchers from two or more schools, and grantees must be able to work with faculty university-wide. 

ETC's Community Betterment Committee Funding Grant provides financial support to non-profit organizations across the United States. Established in 1975, ETC focuses on fostering community initiatives by awarding grants up to $5,000 semi-annually. The selection process is conducted by a committee of employee volunteers, ensuring that funds are allocated to a variety of deserving causes. This initiative reflects ETC's commitment to enhancing community welfare and supporting local initiatives.

The Oris W. Dunham, Jr. and Sylvia M. Dunham Scholarship, offered by the AAAE Foundation, supports college students enrolled in aviation-related programs in the U.S. and Canada. Up to five non-renewable scholarships valued at $1,500 each will be awarded based on academic achievements, financial need, and community involvement. This initiative aims to foster future leaders in the aviation industry by providing financial assistance to deserving candidates.

The SBB Research Group Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) organizations addressing unmet needs through sustainable strategies. Winners are selected monthly, receiving $5,000, while other finalists are awarded $1,000. The foundation collaborates with various partners and has a strong commitment to community service. Organizations are encouraged to apply early, as prior applicants can be reconsidered in subsequent months. This initiative aims to empower impactful initiatives across diverse sectors.

State Farm Companies Foundation offers marketing sponsorships to organizations that align with their mission of building safer, stronger communities. They are open to partnerships that enhance their marketing strategies on both local and national levels. Interested parties can expect a review of their proposals within 2-3 weeks. This initiative aims to foster collaboration with various brands and causes that resonate with State Farm's vision.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

The SBB Research Group Grant offers $5,000 to 501(c)(3) organizations with a focus on addressing unmet needs through sustainable strategies. The application process is streamlined, consisting of just ten questions. The evaluation includes a review by the Philanthropy Committee, which selects nominees for interviews and finalists for presentations. Winners receive funding and further opportunities, while all finalists receive $1,000. This grant aims to empower organizations with 5 to 49 full-time employees.

The ACLS HBCU Faculty Fellowships provide financial support ranging from $30,000 to $50,000 for faculty at Historically Black Colleges and Universities to advance their research projects. The fellowships encourage innovative research outcomes, including scholarly articles and community-engaged projects. Awardees also benefit from mentoring and networking opportunities, with additional funding for their institutions to support humanities programming. This initiative promotes diverse scholarship and collaboration across disciplines, enhancing the academic landscape for HBCU faculty.

The Science Café Mini-Grant, offered by the American Chemical Society, provides up to $500 to support Local Sections in organizing engaging Science Cafés. These events foster discussions between scientists and the community on contemporary topics, enhancing public understanding of science. By participating, local sections can encourage scientific literacy and invigorate interest in scientific issues, making it a valuable opportunity for community engagement.

The Albert & Ethel Herzstein Charitable Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations that create positive change in communities. Focused on enhancing lives and providing opportunities for self-improvement, the foundation prioritizes requests from organizations in the Houston area and Texas. Eligible applicants may submit one request per year, ensuring a fair assessment process. Note that grants are not available to individuals, and lobbying efforts may adversely affect the consideration of applications.

The Engineering Research Initiation (ERI) program, funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), aims to bolster engineering research capacity by supporting new academic investigators. This initiative is designed for those who have not yet received significant federal funding and are affiliated with institutions below the 'very high research activity' level. By fostering innovation and mentorship, the program seeks to broaden participation in engineering research across the nation.

The ACLS Project Grants for HBCU Faculty provide up to $10,000 to support early-stage project design and development over a 12- to 15-month period. This funding facilitates exploratory research and the advancement of existing projects, while offering networking and mentorship opportunities. Applicants must be employed at an HBCU and possess an MA or PhD in humanities or social sciences. The initiative encourages innovative research methods and community engagement, with a focus on higher education outcomes.

The Methodology, Measurement, and Statistics (MMS) Program by the National Science Foundation (NSF) promotes innovative analytical and statistical methodologies for social, behavioral, and economic sciences. It offers various funding mechanisms, including Regular Research Awards, Doctoral Dissertation Research Improvement (DDRI), and Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) grants. The program aims to enhance the utility of official statistics through collaborative research and supports early career development initiatives.

The FAA Aviation Research Grants Program invites applications for aviation research grants aimed at supporting innovative research for civil aviation growth. Eligible applicants, primarily colleges and non-profit institutions, can propose studies across various scientific disciplines. The program emphasizes advanced research in areas like air traffic control, communications, and human factors, promoting the development of technologies that enhance safety and efficiency in aviation and commercial space transportation.

The Ewalt and Jocelyn Maurushat Engineering Scholarship, established in memory of retired engineer Ewalt Maurushat, supports graduating seniors from Erie County, Ohio high schools pursuing an Engineering major. This scholarship emphasizes financial need and may be renewed for up to three years, providing vital assistance to students. Preference is given to academically strong candidates with large families. The Erie County Community Foundation administers this scholarship, fostering educational opportunities and community growth.

The Data Fellowship by Delta Analytics offers a unique opportunity for individuals with strong technical skills in data science, engineering, or visualization to volunteer and empower nonprofits. Over a six-month commitment, participants dedicate 5-10 hours weekly to work closely with nonprofit organizations, leveraging data to drive impactful decisions. This fully remote fellowship fosters personal and professional growth while building a community of like-minded individuals passionate about using data for social good.

The James L. Bass Legal Scholarship, established by the Foundation for Rural Service, honors the legacy of James Bass, who significantly impacted rural telecommunications. This scholarship supports students entering their first year of law school with a focus on rural communities. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens. Through this initiative, the scholarship aims to foster new legal talent committed to enhancing the quality of life in rural America, continuing Mr. Bass's dedication to community service.

The PLTW Engineering program, supported by Arconic Foundation, aims to expand STEM education in public and charter schools across several states. This grant will help cover costs for necessary equipment and training, focusing on high-need student populations. Eligible schools must implement PLTW's Advanced Manufacturing course by the 2026-2027 school year. The initiative is designed to ignite student interest in engineering and increase enrollment in STEM disciplines.

The PLTW Engineering grant, supported by the Arconic Foundation, aims to enhance STEM education by funding the implementation of PLTW Engineering courses in schools. This initiative prepares students for future careers by igniting their passion for engineering. Grants will cover startup costs for new programs or expansions of existing ones. Eligible schools must offer PLTW's Advanced Manufacturing course for the 2026-2027 school year, ensuring access to essential resources and training for educators.

The Tides Stronger Together Fund, under the Tides Foundation, provides essential support grants to fiscally sponsored partners focused on historically underserved communities. By building organizational capacity and leadership, the fund empowers community changemakers to address inequities and enhance sustainability. With a pooled funding model, it directly responds to the needs of over 120 partners, ensuring resources are effectively allocated where they are most impactful, ultimately fostering long-term community resilience.

The Art and Mary Schmuckal Family Foundation, established in 1999, aims to support charitable organizations in the Grand Traverse region. It honors the philanthropic legacy of Art and Mary Schmuckal, who dedicated their lives to community service. The foundation is managed by a volunteer board consisting of family members and friends, ensuring a commitment to wise stewardship of its resources. It welcomes applications from 501(c)(3) organizations throughout the year, focusing on making a meaningful impact in the community.

Law School Admission Council Inc (LSAC) is committed to promoting access in legal education and the legal profession. LSAC will consider grant proposals from institutions for projects focused on one or more of our strategic goals.LSAC Outreach GrantsLSAC's Board of Trustees has made available funds to support cooperative outreach and applicant-pool expansion events. These grants are designed to encourage law schools to work together to promote legal education. At least three LSAC-member schools must work together on each event. Examples of eligible events include law fairs, conferences, workshops, or other events that are a combination of these types.

The Geometric Analysis program, funded by the National Science Foundation, promotes research in differential geometry, including its connections to partial differential equations and variational principles. It emphasizes global analysis, complex manifolds, and geometric methods in mathematical physics, while also exploring integral geometry and convex sets. This initiative supports innovative studies aimed at advancing the understanding of geometric concepts and their applications in various mathematical disciplines.

The Royal B. Kinder Fund aims to enhance the quality of life in Wichita Falls by promoting charitable giving. Nonprofits in Archer County are eligible to apply for grants, which are awarded to 501(c)(3) organizations and other charitable projects. The fund encourages initiatives that benefit the community without discrimination. However, restrictions apply to fundraising, scholarships, and grants to individuals or political entities. Eligible organizations can apply annually to support various charitable purposes.

The Colcom Foundation Grant: National Giving (Carrying Capacity) aims to support projects that address the impacts of human population growth on the environment. The foundation prioritizes initiatives in family planning and sustainable immigration practices to stabilize and gradually decrease the US population by 2040. Non-profit organizations are eligible to apply for these funds, which seek to foster a sustainable environment and ensure a quality life for all Americans.

Nebraska Humanities Council

The mission of Humanities Nebraska is to help people explore what connects us and makes us human.

There are two organizations that fall under the Humanities Nebraska umbrella — the Nebraska Humanities Council is the entity that conducts programs and makes grants. The Nebraska Foundation for the Humanities works with the Council to secure private funding and advocate for public funding at the state and federal levels to support these programs. A third organization, the Nebraska Cultural Endowment, serves as the endowment for both Humanities Nebraska and the Nebraska Arts Council, a state agency.

Sower Award in the Humanities

Humanities Nebraska presents the Sower Award in the Humanities annually to honor an individual who has made a significant contribution to the public understanding of the humanities in Nebraska. This contribution can be made through any combination of time, expertise, or resources. The selection committee will consider how nominees have helped enrich the lives of Nebraskans through the humanities: history, literature, culture, philosophy, and all the ways we explore what it means to be human.

Each year, the Sower Award in the Humanities is presented prior to the annual Governor’s Lecture in the Humanities. The award recipient must be present. In some past years the Sower Award was presented to organizations or communities; as of 2016, only individuals are eligible for nomination. Current board and staff members of Humanities Nebraska are not eligible.

Previous honorees have included:

• Talented humanities faculty who have taken the humanities to the public beyond their classroom;
• Committed volunteers dedicating their time and energy to enhancing the cultural life of Nebraska;
• Thoughtful journalists and filmmakers bringing the humanities to bear on important public issues;
• Generous philanthropists who have directed significant financial support to humanities-related programs and projects accessible by Nebraskans

CSX Charitable Investments offers Community Service Grants to organizations that significantly impact their communities. These grants aim to support entities with tax-exempt status, government agencies, or educational institutions. The application process is open year-round, with responses expected within 30–45 days. The foundation prioritizes projects that serve military families and first responders, reflecting CSX's commitment to community service and support for local needs.