Best Grants for Community Service Projects in Maine

Focused on community development and human services, 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Maine can seek Agnes M. Lindsay Trust support for health and welfare, dental care, food security, homeless shelters, youth and family services, and camperships. Grants of US $1,000 - US $7,500 can fund capital projects and operating needs for community service programs.

501(c)(3) organizations in Maine working on environmental, educational access, or mental health projects can apply for Brutten Family Foundation support. Grants fund specific, time-bound projects rather than general operations and are open to groups worldwide, so Maine community service initiatives that fit these pillars may be eligible.

National Science Foundation provides Maine research institutions and organizations with funding to strengthen administrative infrastructure and advance equity and diversity in the research enterprise. Eligible projects focus on improving research practices and processes, developing human capital, or translating effective research support models, and may benefit community-serving STEM initiatives that rely on robust research administration and support systems.

Nonprofits, institutions, and other organizations in Maine conducting scientific projects to improve animal welfare can seek up to £5,000 through the Small Research Grants program. The Universities Federation for Animal Welfare supports smaller studies on welfare of farm, companion, laboratory, captive, and free-living wild animals where welfare is affected by humans.

Nonprofit organizations needing capital funding for community development projects in Maine can apply for grants of US $5,000 - US $25,000 from Mascoma Bank Foundation. Grants from Mascoma Bank Foundation help Maine community development and revitalization efforts with facility improvements, new construction, capital campaigns, and other long-term infrastructure investments in eligible service areas.

Eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Maine communities where Penn National Gaming operates can apply for grants supporting community development, education, human services, cultural programs, health, and veteran and military support. Local organizations running community service projects in Penobscot County may be especially well positioned for this funding.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Maine can seek funding for community programs, facilities, and equipment, including culture and arts, education, health and wellness, and social services projects. With a mission to strengthen community vitality, Bangor Savings Bank Foundation provides US $2,000 - US $25,000 to initiatives that enhance economic and community development across Northern New England.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations running education, health, or welfare projects can seek funding that improves quality of life, including community service efforts in Maine. Focused on transformative programs for people in need, the Hs Lopez Family Foundation supports projects that demonstrate community benefit and sustainable support, primarily serving Arizona and areas where its board members reside.

Nonprofit organizations in Maine can seek funding for community arts, culture, historic preservation, and environmental initiatives that strengthen local connections and stewardship. Morton-Kelly Charitable Trust offers up to US $20,000 for operating or project support, including cultural facility improvements, land and water conservation, nature-based education, and programs serving diverse and underserved communities.

Nonprofit organizations in Maine running autism-related community programs can apply for the Flutie Foundation’s Autism Community Impact Grant, with awards up to US $15,000 for projects making an immediate impact. Programs supporting underserved, culturally diverse, or profoundly affected individuals and families through education, work, recreation, safety, or direct support services may be eligible.

Maine community development and revitalization nonprofits that are dues-paying members of the National Preservation Partners Network can seek up to US $10,000 to strengthen historic preservation advocacy, capacity, or climate-related work. These Moe Family Fund grants from the National Trust for Historic Preservation support innovative projects, training, campaigns, and related professional services that expand or elevate existing programs.

Organizations in rural Maine working on community development and economic services can seek funding for major public infrastructure and revitalization projects. Grants from Northern Border Regional Commission help Maine communities modernize water and wastewater systems, improve transportation infrastructure, expand workforce development facilities, and support childcare, healthcare, and outdoor recreation initiatives that alleviate economic distress and spur job creation.

Nonprofits, farmers, researchers, and community partners working on sustainable farming and food systems in Maine can seek US $50,000 - US $250,000 for social science research and education projects. Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education supports community-based initiatives that improve agricultural sustainability, marketing, production, climate resilience, and overall farm and food system health across the Northeast region.

Nonprofit and community-based organizations improving education, health, conservation, and community well-being in Maine can apply for Betterment Fund grants of US $10,000 - US $35,000. The fund emphasizes systemic, community-driven projects, with a historical focus on Western Mountains counties and other rural areas, including community development and revitalization efforts.

Nonprofit organizations and fiscally sponsored groups in Maine working on gender equity for womxn and girls can receive general operating or project-focused support to address inequality. Island Foundation provides Maine community organizations with funding to expand healthcare access, build economic security, amplify political voices, ensure safety and healing, and strengthen womxn and girls’ leadership in community life.

The International Trans Fund (ITF) is a participatory grantmaking fund dedicated to supporting trans-led organizations globally. Its mission is to mobilize resources and address funding disparities affecting trans communities. The ITF prioritizes diverse groups, focuses on marginalized trans communities, and promotes intersectional work for social justice. Through various activities, including grants, the ITF empowers trans movements and advocates for their rights, ensuring sustainable growth and self-determination within the trans community.

Nonprofit organizations running environmental and sustainability projects in Maine can apply for grants of US $25,000 - US $75,000 to support multi-state or national initiatives. Grants from Roy A Hunt Foundation help U.S. groups address climate and energy, toxics and waste, and clean water through project management, outreach, applied research, and policy-oriented innovations, which may benefit community service efforts.

Focused on community development, Maine Community Foundation invites Maine nonprofits, municipalities, schools, and public agencies to apply for grants supporting projects that strengthen people and local resources. Eligible organizations can request up to US $10,000 for new community-building projects or general operating support that boosts skills, engagement, and well-being.

The Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grants for Fiscal Year 2025 support revitalization efforts in severely distressed public housing and surrounding neighborhoods. This program encourages collaboration among local governments, housing agencies, and community partners to create comprehensive plans aimed at improving housing quality, promoting upward mobility for residents, and attracting long-term investment for neighborhood development. Successful applicants will implement their Transformation Plans, which were developed through prior Planning Grants to enhance the quality of life for residents.

The Raymond J. and Mary C. Reisert Foundation Grant aims to enhance community well-being by supporting local 501(c)(3) organizations in education, healthcare, and housing initiatives. Grants typically range from $500 to $15,000, with an emphasis on projects in Eastern North Carolina, Long Island, NY, and Central Maine. The foundation has awarded over 300 grants since its inception, reflecting its commitment to impactful community partnerships and ongoing evaluation of funded projects.

Focused on community services, Maine Community Foundation invites Maine 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, public agencies, and tribal governments to apply for the Frances Hollis Brain Foundation Fund. Grants up to US $10,000 support programs serving disadvantaged residents through early childhood education, K–12 enrichment, health care, food security, homelessness alleviation, and related legal services in select Maine communities.

Nonprofit organizations running community development or social change programs for Jewish women and girls, including work in Maine, can apply for Jewish United Fund’s JWF Chicago Annual Grants, offering US $15,000 - US $25,000 for project or general operating support. Eligible 501(c)(3)s and Israeli amutot must focus on systemic change rather than direct services.

Maine community development organizations and other 501(c)(3)s working on social change for Jewish women and girls can access funding through Jewish United Fund’s JWF Chicago Multiyear Grants. Eligible prior grantees may receive up to US $55,000 over three years for initiatives in areas like economic security, leadership development, health, and community empowerment.

Maine community service and workforce nonprofits can access funding and free Zendesk software through the Tech for Good Impact Awards, receiving US $10,000 - US $50,000 to better serve vulnerable populations. Zendesk supports projects that foster community, promote resilience in crises, or create tech career pathways, for verifiable charitable organizations outside restricted countries.

Maine 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving at-risk youth with essentials like food, shelter, security, and education can apply for the MainStreet Foundation’s annual 25K for Kids grant, awarding US $25,000 to one organization. Programs offering direct services such as after-school support, mentoring, leadership, literacy, mental health, and life-skills in Androscoggin Bank’s market areas may benefit.

The Future for Nature Award recognizes and supports young conservationists dedicated to protecting biodiversity. Award winners receive €50,000 and international recognition to enhance their conservation efforts. This prestigious award aims to fund individuals, inspire commitment, and expand their professional networks. Through the Future For Nature Academy, winners gain access to resources and a community, empowering them to continue their impactful work in nature conservation. This initiative highlights the importance of individual contributions to global biodiversity.

Nonprofits and community organizations in Maine working on environment, basic human needs, arts and culture, education, or church-based social services can seek US $2,500 - US $10,000 for community-focused projects. Focus is on immigrants and refugees, Indigenous communities, low-income youth, and the elderly through the Adelard and Valeda Roy Foundation.