Best Grants for Teachers Continuing Education in Maine

Workforce Pilot

The Maine Jobs and Recovery Plan provides $5 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds to the Maine Department of Transportation to support local, regional, and state workforce transportation pilot projects, especially in rural areas. Administered by MaineDOT’s Bureau of Planning, the department’s Workforce Transportation Pilot program is a competitive grant program that provides funds to support other workforce transportation pilot projects around the state. Funds may be used for capital and operating costs, including program start-up costs.

The Bureau of Planning anticipates a $750,000 award cap; however, that award cap is subject to change based on need and volume of applications. MaineDOT reserves the right to negotiate project scope and deliverables prior to finalizing awards. There is no minimum or maximum number of awards. Projects will be selected based on merit and the availability of funding.

While there is no application deadline, applicants are encouraged to submit projects as soon as possible. The Bureau of Planning will accept, evaluate, and make decisions on grant applications on an ongoing, rolling basis until all funds have been disbursed. In its evaluation process and awarding of funds, MaineDOT will consider that some applicants will be able to apply for funds sooner than others. In general, awarded projects should begin within four months of contract execution. This requirement can be waived based on circumstances as described by the applicant.

While projects may support transportation of workers from rural areas to more urban areas or centers of employment, the focus is on workforce transportation in rural areas. As such, some funds will be targeted specifically to connecting workers in rural areas to employment opportunities in rural areas.

Federal guidance provides that funds may be used to respond to COVID-19’s negative economic impacts on the tourism, travel, and hospitality industries. Other identified industries suffering comparable economic impacts include healthcare and social assistance; construction, trade, and logistics; manufacturing; education; agriculture, fishing, and forestry; information; and clean energy. Applicants must demonstrate that they are addressing challenges in these industries. Proposed initiatives must focus on workers and potential workers in these key industry sectors. MaineDOT staff will work with potential applicants to ensure that any proposals meet these requirements.

Applications may be submitted by employers or groups of employers, municipalities, non-profit organizations, human service organizations, and public/private transportation providers. Applicants are encouraged to engage with potential partners including, but not limited to, regional planning organizations, chambers of commerce and other business groups, county governments, workforce boards, and community action programs.

Small Harbor Improvement Program

The Small Harbor Improvement Program (SHIP) promotes economic development, public access, improved commercial fishing opportunities and works to preserve, and create, infrastructure at facilities in tidewater and coastal municipalities. The SHIP program assists municipalities in improving or creating facilities, such as public wharves, piers, landings and boat ramps. There is a required 50% local share under this program. The SHIP program can provide up to $250,000 in assistance towards eligible projects.

Ongoing Program for Future Funding Assistance

This grant application is open to tidewater communities that can demonstrate a need to improve economic activity and access to a tidewater river or the ocean on publicly-accessible property. Typical types of projects funded under this program include commercial and municipal wharf improvements, hoist systems, boat ramps, gangways, stairwells to clam flats, piling replacements, etc.

The goal of this program is to promote economic development, and improve public marine infrastructure and public access. MaineDOT urges each community to contact us as soon possible with your project ideas/needs to begin the process for potential inclusion in upcoming budgets. MaineDOT will schedule site visits as needed once a letter of intent has been filed. Once a letter of intent project has been deemed eligible, the community will be able to submit an application.

Small Community Grant Program (SCG)

What is the Purpose?

The Small Community Grant Program provides grants to municipalities to help replace malfunctioning septic systems that are polluting a waterbody or causing a public nuisance. An existent pollution problem must be documented to qualify for funding.

Grants can be used to fund from 25% to 100% of the design and construction costs, depending upon the property owners' income and the property's use. The municipality receives the grant as a reimbursement for eligible costs of the replacement septic system after substantial completion of the construction.

What are the program priorities?

When funds are available, grants are awarded based on financial need of the property owner, as well as the negative environmental impacts of a system. The program prioritizes and awards funding to replace systems which are:

Contaminating a public drinking water supply,

polluting a shellfishing area

discharging into a body of water, or

creating a public nuisance condition.

The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) grants are not available to provide septic systems for new homes or for the replacement of a septic system that was constructed after July 1, 1974 and was not constructed in compliance with the Maine Subsurface Wastewater Disposal Rules at that time. Grant applications must be submitted by the municipality in which the property owner resides.

The Onion Foundation's Arts Education and Public Engagement Grants support organizations with budgets over $50,000 in Maine. The program prioritizes access to arts education, public engagement, and capacity building for arts organizations. Grants can be general operating or project-based, with amounts reaching up to $20,000 annually. Emphasizing equity and diversity, applicants are encouraged to align their proposals with the foundation's strategic goals to foster creativity and cultural sharing within Maine's communities.

Maine Community Foundation

Founded in 1983, the Maine Community Foundation brings people and resources together to build a better Maine through strategic giving, community leadership, personalized service, local expertise and strong investments. We offer a range of giving options tailored to fit each donor’s financial means and charitable objectives. Our staff provides personalized service, community leadership, and a deep understanding of local issues.

River Rock Shared Future Fund

Purpose

The River Rock Shared Future Fund’s long-term goal is achieving greater racial equity by increasing economic opportunities, education levels and health and wellness in communities of color in Maine.

Types of Funding

Two-year general support grants for flexible funding of any type such as new/expanding/ongoing programs and operational needs including capital expenses. Your organization’s primary work must meet the River Rock Shared Future Fund criteria listed below.

Multi-year grantees will be selected every two years.

The New England Regional Consortium Fellowships, supported by Harvard University, offer approximately 24 research grants annually across diverse fields such as history, literature, and sociology. These fellowships encourage collaborative projects utilizing resources from multiple cultural agencies. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or foreign nationals with the proper documentation, and itineraries require a minimum of eight weeks, involving at least three member institutions with two weeks spent at each.

The Bettie H. MacRae Scholarship provides financial support for nontraditional students in Maine, particularly those from Islesboro, to pursue career-related education. It emphasizes the importance of adult learners overcoming challenges in their educational journey. Eligible applicants must meet specific criteria, such as being over 25 or having dependents, and can enroll in various accredited programs, including online courses and professional training, to enhance their employment opportunities.

The ATV Municipal Grant (ME) is a funding opportunity from the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, designed to assist municipalities in developing and maintaining ATV trails. Municipalities can receive reimbursement for up to 90% of eligible costs, including equipment rental and repair. To qualify, towns, cities, or counties must submit requests with matching local funds. A commitment of one year is required to access this financial aid.

The James and Marilyn Rockefeller Scholarship supports Maine residents over 18 who seek educational opportunities that will transform their lives. Designed for nontraditional students, it offers financial assistance for various training programs, including college and certificate courses. Applicants must demonstrate determination and have a clear plan for their education. This scholarship aims to alleviate the financial burden of pursuing higher education, empowering adult learners to achieve their academic goals.

Department of Economic and Community Development

At DECD, we are more than two dozen experts whose broad mission is to help communities and businesses prosper through a variety of programs providing everything from targeted tax relief to community block grants to tourism marketing. Whether your business wants to make a film here, bring a Maine-made product to market, expand an aquaculture project, or explore financing when moving a business to our state, our experienced staff can help.

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program 

In 1982 the State of Maine began administering the CDBG Program to assist units of local government in various community projects in areas ranging from infrastructure, housing, downtown revitalization to public facilities and economic development.

CDBG Objectives

All CDBG funded activities must meet one of three National Objectives of the program. These objectives are:

• Benefit to low- and moderate-income persons.
• Prevention and/or elimination of slum and blight conditions; and
• Meeting community development needs having a particular urgency

The Maine CDBG Program serves as a catalyst for local governments to implement programs which meet one of the three National Objectives, and:

• Are part of a long-range community strategy, or State of Maine Strategic Economic Development Plan
• Improve deteriorated residential and business districts and local economic conditions
• Provide the conditions and incentives for further public and private investments
• Foster partnerships between groups of municipalities, state and federal entities, multi-jurisdictional organizations, and the private sector to address common community and economic development problems; and
• Minimize development sprawl consistent with the State of Maine Growth Management Act and support the revitalization of downtown areas.

CDBG Special Projects Program

The Special Projects Program provides funds to projects that are not funded through the normal CDBG application process. SP funds will be used for alternative OCD grant activities and partnerships that meet the community or economic development needs of municipalities and CDBG National Objectives in the State of Maine. Approval for the use of SPMF funds is through the Director, Office of Community Development.

Funding for this program may be available based upon redistribution, reallocation and/or additional allocation from HUD.

Department of Economic and Community Development

At DECD, we are more than two dozen experts whose broad mission is to help communities and businesses prosper through a variety of programs providing everything from targeted tax relief to community block grants to tourism marketing. Whether your business wants to make a film here, bring a Maine-made product to market, expand an aquaculture project, or explore financing when moving a business to our state, our experienced staff can help.

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program 

In 1982 the State of Maine began administering the CDBG Program to assist units of local government in various community projects in areas ranging from infrastructure, housing, downtown revitalization to public facilities and economic development.

CDBG Objectives

All CDBG funded activities must meet one of three National Objectives of the program. These objectives are:

• Benefit to low- and moderate-income persons.
• Prevention and/or elimination of slum and blight conditions; and
• Meeting community development needs having a particular urgency

The Maine CDBG Program serves as a catalyst for local governments to implement programs which meet one of the three National Objectives, and:

• Are part of a long-range community strategy, or State of Maine Strategic Economic Development Plan
• Improve deteriorated residential and business districts and local economic conditions
• Provide the conditions and incentives for further public and private investments
• Foster partnerships between groups of municipalities, state and federal entities, multi-jurisdictional organizations, and the private sector to address common community and economic development problems; and
• Minimize development sprawl consistent with the State of Maine Growth Management Act and support the revitalization of downtown areas.

CDBG Home Repair Network Program (HRN)

The Home Repair Network Program (HRN) provides funding statewide to address housing problems of low- and moderate-income persons. This program will provide housing rehabilitation services administered on a regional basis throughout Maine.

Eligible Activities

Eligible activities under the HRN Program are rehabilitation of occupied or vacant single-family or multi-family housing units, demolition, same site replacement housing, provision of potable water and sewer, energy conservation, removal/mitigation of lead-based paint, asbestos, radon, or other hazardous material, removal of architectural barriers and the Critical Access Ramp Program (via Alpha One).

The Allison Keller Education Technology Grant Program, established by the Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism, aims to bridge the technological gap for schools and organizations supporting individuals with autism. Since 2012, over $820,000 has been awarded to enhance learning through technology, including iPads and apps. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and public schools in Massachusetts and surrounding New England states, with one program per district receiving funding annually.

The William P. Wharton Trust Grant supports projects that align with the vision of its patron, focusing on tangible outcomes. It prioritizes land conservation efforts that protect natural resources over recreational use. The Trust aims to leverage funds for impactful environmental initiatives and encourages collaboration among organizations. Eligible applicants include public charities and governmental units, while grants are limited to direct project costs. Notably, the Trust avoids funding for overhead, construction, and educational programs for youth below college level.

Department of Economic and Community Development

At DECD, we are more than two dozen experts whose broad mission is to help communities and businesses prosper through a variety of programs providing everything from targeted tax relief to community block grants to tourism marketing. Whether your business wants to make a film here, bring a Maine-made product to market, expand an aquaculture project, or explore financing when moving a business to our state, our experienced staff can help.

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program 

In 1982 the State of Maine began administering the CDBG Program to assist units of local government in various community projects in areas ranging from infrastructure, housing, downtown revitalization to public facilities and economic development.

CDBG Objectives

All CDBG funded activities must meet one of three National Objectives of the program. These objectives are:

• Benefit to low- and moderate-income persons.
• Prevention and/or elimination of slum and blight conditions; and
• Meeting community development needs having a particular urgency

The Maine CDBG Program serves as a catalyst for local governments to implement programs which meet one of the three National Objectives, and:

• Are part of a long-range community strategy, or State of Maine Strategic Economic Development Plan
• Improve deteriorated residential and business districts and local economic conditions
• Provide the conditions and incentives for further public and private investments
• Foster partnerships between groups of municipalities, state and federal entities, multi-jurisdictional organizations, and the private sector to address common community and economic development problems; and
• Minimize development sprawl consistent with the State of Maine Growth Management Act and support the revitalization of downtown areas.

CDBG Public Infrastructure Grant Program

The Public Infrastructure Grant (PI) Program provides gap funding for local infrastructure activities, which are part of a community development strategy leading to future public and private investments. Applications will only be accepted in even years. 

Eligible Activities

Eligible activities in the PI Program are construction, acquisition, reconstruction, installation, relocation assistance associated with public infrastructure, and public infrastructure limited to supporting construction of fully-funded affordable LMI housing; eligible planning activities necessary to complete the Project Development Phase.

The Patriot Education Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, supports Maine high school graduates pursuing a business degree in Maine. Launched in 2007, this scholarship aims to assist students enrolled part-time or full-time in accredited institutions. With a preference for candidates interested in the insurance profession, it embodies the spirit of community support and investment in education, providing vital financial assistance to help students achieve their academic goals.

The Encova Foundation of West Virginia is dedicated to improving communities by supporting local causes that align with the values of its associates and policyholders. They focus on health, education, and wellness, emphasizing the importance of children's success. Organizations applying for grants must be U.S.-based and verified as charitable. Preference is given to initiatives impacting health and education, especially those involving Encova associates as active participants.

The Rice Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation in 1996, offers scholarships to students who have spent significant time on Maine's offshore islands and are pursuing higher education. This fund supports residents from both offshore and bridged islands, encouraging them to further their education at accredited institutions. Selection is based on financial need and commitment to community service, ensuring support for deserving students in Maine.

The Ronald P. Guerrette FFA Scholarship Fund, established in 1998 by friends and family, honors Ronald P. Guerrette of Caribou. This fund awards a $1,000 scholarship annually to graduating high school seniors in Maine who are FFA members and are committed to pursuing careers in farming or agriculture-related fields. The Maine Community Foundation, founded in 1983, supports this initiative by providing resources for educational opportunities across the state.

The Northeast Agricultural Education Foundation Grant supports educational and leadership initiatives focused on agriculture within the Northeastern United States. Established as a private foundation, it provides funding to 501(c)(3) organizations that promote agricultural leadership, enhance understanding of food production, and improve farmers' quality of life. The Foundation prioritizes programs that educate youth about agriculture and promote farm safety awareness. Grants are primarily directed towards statewide or larger projects that align with these objectives.

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.

The Howard E. Stark Charitable Foundation, established in 2007, supports small, impactful organizations in the Northeast US. The foundation prioritizes projects that alleviate suffering for people or animals and considers applications from 501(c)(3) organizations outside its usual funding parameters. Key areas of support include education, after-school programs, rehabilitation, arts, nutrition, and emotional support initiatives. The foundation is committed to fostering local community development through thoughtful funding.

RBC Foundation – USA aims to enhance community quality of life by supporting non-profit organizations that promote diversity and positive change. In 2023, it awarded over $2.8 million in grants, prioritizing youth programs for ages 15-29, arts access for diverse populations, and mental well-being initiatives. The foundation encourages sustainable projects that foster economic independence, providing critical support for education, mental health, and cultural enrichment, thereby making a significant impact across various communities.

The Uncle Al Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, supports musicians in Franklin and Somerset counties seeking to enhance their skills on acoustic instruments, including voice. Founded in 1983, the Maine Community Foundation promotes education through strategic giving and community leadership, awarding over $3 million annually through nearly 700 scholarship funds. This fund specifically aids those pursuing further musical development, highlighting the importance of education in the arts.

Health Equity Capacity-Building (HECB) Program

Purpose

In 2021, the HECB grantees worked in partnership with MeHAF staff to develop this aspirational goal statement for the program:

The long-term goal of the HECB program is to provide a foundation for MeHAF and grantees to collectively work toward building a movement for health equity in Maine.

Through the program, grantees and MeHAF will forge new transformative, healing relationships, both between funder and grantee and across communities.

Working together, grantees and MeHAF will craft a system and structure that enables grantees to examine and strengthen their internal systems, skills, resources, networks, and audience so that they each have what they need to pursue their missions and build long-term, sustainable power.

MeHAF will use its voice and influence to spread equitable practices to other funders, the state, and mainstream organizations. 

By learning alongside grantees, MeHAF will build and sustain grant programs that advance justice and equity, and apply that learning across its other programs.

To support this goal, the program pairs unrestricted operating support grants with a cohort learning community and self-selected technical assistance supports, both in group and individualized settings, and works provide ways for grantees to collaborate and connect.

The Red Sox Foundation offers event sponsorship opportunities to support community initiatives in New England and Lee County, FL. Sponsorships range from $1,000 to $10,000, with a focus on health, education, and recreation. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and align with the Foundation's mission to enhance the lives of children, families, and veterans. Applications for sponsorships over $10,000 are by invitation only, fostering impactful community partnerships.

The Red Sox Foundation provides programmatic grants to support non-profits focused on health, education, and recreation in New England. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $10,000, with larger requests by invitation only. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and can only apply once per year. The foundation emphasizes its commitment to making a positive impact in the community, although it cannot support every request due to the volume of applications.

The AgEnhancement Grant, awarded by Farm Credit East and CoBank, provides funding between $500 to $10,000 annually to support projects that enhance agriculture, commercial fishing, and forest products in the Northeast. Since 1996, over $3.5 million has been distributed to various organizations. The program seeks initiatives that promote diversity and provide opportunities for all-sized farms, ensuring long-term benefits to the community and industry.