Best Grants for Environmental Justice in Maine

The New England Grassroots Environment Fund's Grow Grant supports community-based initiatives in CT, ME, MA, NH, RI, and VT. This grant is designed for groups with local grassroots projects, prioritizing those with diverse voices and limited access to other funding sources. Eligible groups may not need formal tax status, but must maintain a checking account. This funding aims to enhance community engagement and empower local decision-making.

The Keystone Grant Program, funded by the Elmina B. Sewall Foundation, aims to empower grassroots and community-led initiatives focused on environmental and racial justice in Maine. With available funding of up to $1.5 million, the program supports organizations demonstrating a commitment to advocacy and civic engagement. Applicants must be eligible to receive tax-deductible donations and can include diverse groups, particularly those led by marginalized communities, to foster a sustainable and equitable future.

The Abelard Foundation, established in 1958, supports progressive social change projects located east of the Mississippi River. With an average grant size of $12,000, they prioritize new initiatives with budgets under $350,000. The foundation emphasizes community organizing, civil rights, and empowering marginalized groups. Eligible applicants must be associated with a nonprofit organization and demonstrate a commitment to local leadership and broader policy connections. The board meets biannually to decide on approximately 15 grants per year, focusing mainly on general support.

The New England Grassroots Fund offers SEED Grants to support community-driven projects in New England, particularly those initiated by groups with limited resources and experience. These grants aim to empower organizations that represent diverse voices in their communities and focus on local environmental issues. Eligible applicants include grassroots organizations without formal tax status, emphasizing the fund's commitment to accessible funding for innovative, grassroots solutions.

The Stone Foundation Grants in Maine offer flexible and trust-based philanthropic support primarily focused on Monmouth County, New Jersey, and Wabanakiq, Maine. Grants range from $5,000 to $25,000, with first-time applicants typically considered for 1-year grants between $5,000 and $10,000. Eligible organizations include 501c3 nonprofits and community groups with a fiscal sponsor. The foundation encourages projects that address social inequities and foster community impact through innovative solutions.

The Island Foundation offers Environment Grants to support projects in coastal regions of Maine, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, focusing on marine and coastal resource conservation. Priority is given to initiatives addressing climate change, promoting sustainable landscapes, and enhancing community health through environmental conservation. The Foundation encourages 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, with a preference for those engaged locally, to apply for funding that strengthens both ecological and community resilience.

The Haymarket People's Fund offers Urgent Response Grants of up to $5,000 for grassroots organizations in New England to address unforeseen crises or opportunities. These grants support both urban and rural social justice efforts and do not require 501(c)3 status. Priority is given to organizations led by people of color that incorporate anti-racism values. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis after a preliminary conversation with Haymarket staff.

The Wild Geese Foundation supports organizations focused on human rights, food justice, youth empowerment, and climate resilience. With a commitment to marginalized communities, they prioritize reproductive justice and sustainable agriculture in New England. Grants are available to 501(c)3 organizations, excluding those with budgets over $5 million or involved in international projects. Their mission emphasizes the importance of fostering environments where youth can thrive, ensuring a just and equitable society for all.