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Search Through Grants for Community Centers in Maine

The Alleghany Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) organization in Virginia, focuses on enhancing the quality of life in the Alleghany Highlands through strategic funding initiatives. It seeks grant applications that address key areas such as economic transformation, educational excellence, health and wellness, community capacity, and civic leadership. By prioritizing innovative projects and supporting local organizations, the Foundation aims to foster sustainable growth and community engagement, ensuring a vibrant future for the region.

The Community Facilities Grant Program in Maine provides essential funding for developing community facilities in rural areas. Eligible entities, including public bodies and non-profit corporations, can access grants and low-interest loans to improve vital services like healthcare, education, and public safety. The program prioritizes assistance to smaller communities with lower median incomes, ensuring that all residents have access to necessary facilities and services. This initiative fosters community growth and stability throughout rural Maine.

The David Kelby Johnson Memorial Foundation offers grants to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on sight preservation, children's services, and environmental conservation, primarily in Utah. Established in memory of David Kelby Johnson, who tragically lost his life at a young age, the foundation aims to honor his legacy by supporting impactful charitable initiatives. Grants range from $5,000 to $100,000, with a commitment to improving communities both locally and globally.

The Growing Research Access for Nationally Transformative Equity and Diversity program, funded by the National Science Foundation, aims to enhance the research enterprise by addressing structural barriers and promoting inclusivity. By focusing on administrative support and innovative strategies, the initiative seeks to empower diverse organizations to participate in research. Proposals should target institution-wide impacts and scalable models that strengthen human capital and research practices, fostering a more equitable and competitive research landscape.

The Maine Workforce Development Compact aims to address workforce challenges through collaboration among businesses, nonprofits, and municipalities. The Harold Alfond Center provides $60 million in funding for initiatives such as financial support for frontline workers and community college scholarships. Eligible participants include Maine residents aged 18 and older with a high school diploma or equivalent. Training can occur at community colleges or through company-based programs, benefiting small and mid-sized businesses.

The ReTreeUS School and Community Orchards Grant Program aims to inspire future generations through hands-on education in orchards and gardens. Focused on Maine, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts, this initiative has established 94 orchards since 2012, promoting interest in horticulture and biology among youth. Eligible applicants include schools and community centers in these states, fostering environmental stewardship and food growing skills within local communities.

The Town Fair Tire Foundation Grant supports local organizations in New England, focusing on social, health, and educational services. Established in 2000, the foundation emphasizes 'paying it forward' by encouraging grant recipients to assist others in need. TFTF aims to promote self-reliance and community advancement, funding initiatives that create positive change in the lives of individuals and families affected by poverty. Although primarily focused in New England, grants may be considered for aligned programs elsewhere.

The Onion Foundation's Environment Program aims to enhance nature learning for Maine's youth, especially in underserved rural areas. By providing high-quality, science-based educational opportunities, the program seeks to cultivate an appreciation for natural systems and their importance to a vibrant life. Key priorities include developing standards-aligned nature programs and facilitating transformative outdoor experiences. This initiative addresses educational disparities, ensuring all children can benefit from rich environmental education and engagement with their local ecosystems.

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.

Internet Society Foundation

At the Internet Society Foundation, we focus on funding initiatives that strengthen the Internet in function and reach so that it can effectively serve all people. Our work advances the vision of the Internet Society (ISOC): The Internet is For Everyone.

To this end, we support efforts to ensure that the Internet is open, globally-connected, secure, and trustworthy. We champion the use of the network as a critical technical infrastructure that can bring communities better education, healthcare and economic opportunity among other important areas of focus. We believe that by working together, we can use the Internet to shape a better future for us all and positively impact humanity worldwide.

Community-Centered Connectivity Grant Program

Program Overview

Over 2 billion people remain offline – about a quarter of the world’s population – and most live in remote and rural, low-income and isolated communities worldwide. Usually, they are not able to connect to the Internet for three main reasons:

• Availability: Unavailable or unreliable connectivity
• Affordability: Local population can't afford to pay for connectivity
• Adoption: People lack awareness of the internet's benefits

The Internet Society Foundation’s Community-Centered Connectivity (CCC) Grant Program, a core part of the Internet Society’s work to help communities bridge the digital divide, aims to address these challenges by supporting organizations to develop and expand Internet access and increase adoption in digitally excluded communities.

Community-centered connectivity is when connectivity solutions are built for, with, or by local communities themselves. These solutions are not imposed from outside but instead designed with direct involvement from the people who will use and maintain them. They often emerge in places where other models have failed or are not viable.

Through its three funding tracks – Catalyst, Scaling, and Systems – the CCC Grant Program supports organizations of various backgrounds, sizes, and expertise who can offer the best context-specific, community-centered connectivity solutions.

Program Objectives

• Support connectivity solutions that solve the major barriers to meaningful connectivity for communities: availability, affordability, and adoption. Solutions should increase the availability of affordable, reliable Internet connectivity among digitally excluded communities.
• Increase Internet adoption by strengthening digital literacy and local capacity to manage and maintain connectivity solutions.
• Support organizations that build and sustain collaborative partnerships with communities and other stakeholders to implement connectivity solutions and expand their capacity.
• Increase organizational capacity of grantee partners to scale their work.

Funding

The CCC Grant Program welcomes eligible organizations to apply to one of the three funding tracks, based on their organization’s capacity, experience, the scale, and duration of the project they propose. While applications from any eligible organizations are welcome, a strong preference will be given to those working with refugees/displaced communities, Indigenous communities, and women and girls.

Catalyst Track

Up to USD $50,000 to build at least one new connectivity solution, or an expand an existing solution, in a community. This project can be up to 12 months.

Internet Society Foundation

At the Internet Society Foundation, we focus on funding initiatives that strengthen the Internet in function and reach so that it can effectively serve all people. Our work advances the vision of the Internet Society (ISOC): The Internet is For Everyone.

To this end, we support efforts to ensure that the Internet is open, globally-connected, secure, and trustworthy. We champion the use of the network as a critical technical infrastructure that can bring communities better education, healthcare and economic opportunity among other important areas of focus. We believe that by working together, we can use the Internet to shape a better future for us all and positively impact humanity worldwide.

Community-Centered Connectivity Grant Program

Program Overview

Over 2 billion people remain offline – about a quarter of the world’s population – and most live in remote and rural, low-income and isolated communities worldwide. Usually, they are not able to connect to the Internet for three main reasons:

• Availability: Unavailable or unreliable connectivity
• Affordability: Local population can't afford to pay for connectivity
• Adoption: People lack awareness of the internet's benefits

The Internet Society Foundation’s Community-Centered Connectivity (CCC) Grant Program, a core part of the Internet Society’s work to help communities bridge the digital divide, aims to address these challenges by supporting organizations to develop and expand Internet access and increase adoption in digitally excluded communities.

Community-centered connectivity is when connectivity solutions are built for, with, or by local communities themselves. These solutions are not imposed from outside but instead designed with direct involvement from the people who will use and maintain them. They often emerge in places where other models have failed or are not viable.

Through its three funding tracks – Catalyst, Scaling, and Systems – the CCC Grant Program supports organizations of various backgrounds, sizes, and expertise who can offer the best context-specific, community-centered connectivity solutions.

Program Objectives

• Support connectivity solutions that solve the major barriers to meaningful connectivity for communities: availability, affordability, and adoption. Solutions should increase the availability of affordable, reliable Internet connectivity among digitally excluded communities.
• Increase Internet adoption by strengthening digital literacy and local capacity to manage and maintain connectivity solutions.
• Support organizations that build and sustain collaborative partnerships with communities and other stakeholders to implement connectivity solutions and expand their capacity.
• Increase organizational capacity of grantee partners to scale their work.

Funding

The CCC Grant Program welcomes eligible organizations to apply to one of the three funding tracks, based on their organization’s capacity, experience, the scale, and duration of the project they propose. While applications from any eligible organizations are welcome, a strong preference will be given to those working with refugees/displaced communities, Indigenous communities, and women and girls.

Scaling Track

Up to USD $200,000 to support deployment of proven, successful solutions to improve or expand connectivity to multiple communities. This project can be up to 18 months.

The Green Family Foundation Grants support initiatives that enhance access to the arts, culture, education, and healthcare. Through a competitive RFP process, they prioritize community-driven solutions that foster equity, innovation, and collaboration in key areas such as Global Health, Community Empowerment, The Arts, and Education. Grants range from $1,500 to $30,000, with a preference for organizations based in Miami-Dade County. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations aligned with the foundation's mission.

The Maine Cancer Foundation is dedicated to reducing tobacco use and its related health burdens in Maine, where lung cancer rates are notably high. They invite proposals for projects focusing on tobacco prevention and treatment, particularly targeting youth and vulnerable populations. Evidence-based practices are required, and projects should aim to demonstrate measurable outcomes. This initiative addresses the critical need for effective tobacco control strategies in the state.

The Dairy Processor Innovation Grant, offered by the Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center, is designed to support dairy processors in enhancing their long-term business viability. With grants ranging from $75,000 to $250,000, this program encourages investments in sourcing, product development, and sustainable practices. Available to applicants across Northeast states, it aims to help processors appeal to consumers who prioritize local, environmentally friendly products. The total funding available is $1,000,000, with a two-step application process.

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 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 Burroughs Wellcome Fund's Climate Change and Human Health Seed Grants aim to foster innovative collaborations among diverse fields to address climate change's effects on health. With $1M dedicated from Fall 2023 to Summer 2026, grants range from $2,500 to $50,000. This initiative encourages partnerships between biomedical scientists, public health experts, and community organizations, promoting sustainable health systems and effective climate communication. Proposals are accepted on a rolling basis, emphasizing creative solutions to pressing health challenges.

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 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 Find Your Light Foundation is committed to providing every child with access to quality arts education. By focusing on direct support for exceptional programs, along with education, advocacy, and outreach, they aim to highlight the importance of arts in youth development. Grants are awarded to arts education initiatives in low-income areas across North America, typically ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, with awards issued in the Summer and Winter each year.

The Northeast Sea Grant Consortium and NOAA’s Northeast Fisheries Science Center invite proposals to explore the interactions between fishing communities and offshore wind development in the U.S. Northeast. This initiative aims to enhance understanding of community resilience and economies, while fostering collaborative research that informs decision-making. Proposals should utilize qualitative and quantitative methods and involve at least one Co-PI from the six states of the NESGC, with a requirement for a 25% non-federal match.

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 Citizens' Institute on Rural Design (CIRD), a partnership between the National Endowment for the Arts and the Housing Assistance Council, invites rural communities to apply for design support. CIRD aims to enhance rural life and economic viability through planning and creative placemaking, empowering local citizens to address unique community challenges. Opportunities include Local Design Workshops and a Design Learning Cohort, providing resources, training, and support to foster community-driven solutions.

The Maine Department of Education is inviting proposals for the 21st Century Community Learning Center (21st CCLC) Grants, aimed at funding afterschool and summer programs for students from Pre-K to grade 12. This initiative supports partnerships that enhance academic performance and provide essential enrichment opportunities for students in economically disadvantaged areas, while also offering safe environments for families during non-school hours.

The Momentum Conservation Land Trust Grant Fund aims to enhance the effectiveness of land trusts in Maine by strengthening governance, leadership, and financial stability. It promotes equity and inclusion in organizational practices, encouraging diverse community engagement. This initiative also supports land trusts in building social capital and ensures that conserved lands are accessible to all communities, fostering meaningful experiences in conservation efforts.

The Translational Bridge Award, offered by the Lupus Research Alliance, provides up to $450,000 over two years to support projects that bridge the gap between post-discovery and pre-commercial development. This funding aims to accelerate the translation of promising lupus research into clinical evaluation and viable products. Applicants must have a doctoral degree and prior LRA funding experience. The program fosters innovation and aims to improve care for lupus patients by facilitating milestone-driven research and commercialization efforts.