Best Marketing Grants for Nonprofits in Maine

The Albert G. and Olive H. Schlink Foundation, established in 1966, has significantly impacted Ohio's nonprofit sector by increasing its annual grant distribution from an initial $500 to over $1.4 million in 2023. The Foundation prioritizes organizations with ties to Erie and Huron Counties and emphasizes thoughtful evaluation of all grant applications. With a focus on community needs, it continues to honor the founders' legacy while adapting to the evolving demands of local nonprofits.

The Agnes Freyer Gibbs Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation in 2018, offers renewable financial support to Maine students pursuing journalism or related fields. Eligible applicants include graduating seniors from Maine high schools or home-schooled students with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Selection is based on demonstrated interest in journalism, academic achievement, and financial need. Preference is given to female applicants, fostering diversity and support within the media landscape.

The Mazamas is committed to exploring and preserving mountain environments in the Pacific Northwest through research grants. These grants support nonprofit research that aligns with the Mazamas’ mission, encouraging proposals from graduate and undergraduate students. Successful applicants often conduct field studies that enhance understanding of the region's natural features. Notably, the Mazamas also welcome innovative research ideas that may fall outside traditional grant guidelines, promoting a diverse range of scientific inquiry.

The Anderson-Rogers Foundation Grant supports U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations focused on environmental protection, animal welfare, climate change mitigation, and social support. Established in 2001, this family foundation prioritizes innovative projects and general operating support for small organizations facing financial constraints. Note that applicants must first submit a letter of inquiry, as the foundation does not fund scholarships or grants to individuals or religious organizations, nor does it support organizations outside the U.S.

Research for Novel Approaches in Sustainable Agriculture Grant Program

The Northeast SARE Research for Novel Approaches grant program funds ‘proof of concept’ applied research projects that are designed to confirm the benefits and/or feasibility of new practices and approaches—i.e., Novel Approaches—in agriculture.

These applied research projects must have some existing evidence from previous experiments or pilot projects (your own or others) suggesting that the practice or approach is beneficial and feasible, but further testing, data, and refinement are needed before it can be recommended for widespread adoption by farmers.

Research for Novel Approaches Grant projects require an explicit connection to the needs and interests of farmers in the Northeast. All proposals must include documented interest among farmers and service providers in utilizing or promoting the novel approach should it be proven beneficial and feasible.

Funding Available

Novel Approaches grants have a minimum award of $30,000 and a cap of $250,000.

The James Foley Scholarship Fund, established by his daughter, supports Maine students pursuing nursing degrees. This fund honors James Foley's legacy as a first-generation college graduate from a large family during the Great Depression. It provides renewable scholarships to second, third, and fourth-year nursing students with financial need, particularly those residing in Washington County. Maine Community Foundation administers this fund, reflecting its commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for Maine residents.

The ASP Conservation Small Grants program is dedicated to supporting primate conservation efforts. It invites proposals for conservation research or related projects, including education, with awards up to $3500. This initiative encourages ASP members, especially those in habitat countries, to submit impactful projects that contribute to broader conservation goals. The program emphasizes funding for local salaries, research supplies, and educational materials, ensuring the sustainability of primate conservation efforts.

The Maine Health Access Foundation (MeHAF) offers the Community Responsive Grants Program, which promotes community-led solutions to health care challenges in Maine. This initiative focuses on empowering local organizations to address barriers to health equity through innovative projects that reflect community needs. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and governmental entities. MeHAF aims to enhance health access and outcomes by funding initiatives that challenge existing policies and practices.

The CDBG Downtown Revitalization Grant Program, administered by the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development, aims to enhance downtown areas through innovative solutions. Eligible communities must match 25% of the grant and demonstrate recent revitalization planning. Projects should benefit low/moderate income individuals or address slum conditions. Maximum funding is $300,000, with bonus points for communities designated by the Maine Downtown Center. This program fosters public and private investments for sustainable growth.

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 Guy P. Gannett Scholarship Fund, established in 2000 by the Guy P. Gannett Foundation, supports Maine students pursuing journalism or related fields. This renewable scholarship emphasizes academic achievement and a strong commitment to journalism. Recipients, who must be Maine high school graduates or home-schooled in Maine, are encouraged to apply for renewal throughout their education, showcasing their dedication to the profession through coursework and extracurricular activities.

The Call for Kindness Grant, offered by Riley's Way Foundation, empowers young leaders aged 13-23 to launch impactful social projects focused on kindness and community connection. With grants up to $5,000, recipients receive essential mentorship, coaching, and community support. This initiative has already benefited over 3,500 youth nationwide, promoting values of empathy and social change. Applicants can pursue projects in diverse areas, including environmental justice, ensuring a broad impact in their communities.

The Community Building Grant Program, managed by the Maine Community Foundation, aims to strengthen communities through diverse projects in arts, education, and human services. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and municipalities in Maine, focusing on enhancing skills and engaging community members. Grants can support new projects or operational needs, with maximum awards of $10,000. The program requires a commitment to community engagement and resource strengthening, ensuring that funding addresses local needs effectively.

The Maine Expansion Arts - BIPOC program, initiated by the Maine Community Foundation, aims to enhance access to arts for Black, Indigenous, and people of color in rural Maine. This initiative supports organizations that empower BIPOC communities through arts-based programs, ensuring representation and inclusivity. Grants are available for both general support and specific projects that promote BIPOC artists, addressing barriers to participation in the arts and fostering cultural enrichment across the state.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant opportunity for schools across the US to implement the PLTW Gateway program for the first time. With total funding of $9,100, the grant covers participation fees and training registration costs. Schools, including public, private, and charter, are encouraged to apply, particularly those serving low-income and minority majority populations. This initiative aims to enhance educational pathways in STEM for diverse student groups.

The Maine Education Association (MEA) offers the Instruction and Professional Development Grant to support educators in enhancing the quality of education, equalizing opportunities, and promoting professional development. This grant empowers members to provide leadership in their schools by funding activities like workshops and resources. Applications should align with MEA policies and their mission to ensure every Maine student receives an outstanding education. Grants are available for speakers, materials, and equipment, fostering better educational practices.

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 ReTreeUS Back-to-School Garden Program empowers schools in Maine and New Hampshire to cultivate healthy, organic gardens aligned with the academic calendar. By fostering experiential learning, the program inspires youth to grow nutritious food while promoting ecological diversity and climate resilience. With over 50 established garden programs, this initiative not only enhances food security but also nurtures a new generation of environmental stewards dedicated to reconnecting with nature.

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 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 NRA Foundation offers grants in Maine to support charitable purposes in line with IRS 501(c)(3) regulations. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, government entities, and educational institutions with a valid EIN. The foundation prioritizes projects that promote firearms safety, education, and research in marksmanship. However, labor organizations, private businesses, and individuals are ineligible for funding. Grant requests must align with the foundation's mission and the application process requires specific documentation.

Navigant Credit Union 

Navigant Credit Union is the longest-operating, member-owned credit union in Rhode Island. Since its founding in 1915, Navigant Credit Union has been dedicated to providing its members with unparalleled financial products and services, while working every day to stay committed to the financial well-being of the families, businesses and communities we serve. 

Navigant Credit Union Charitable Foundation Grant

For over a century, Navigant Credit Union has been committed to making a meaningful difference in the community. In 2017, we established the Navigant Credit Union Charitable Foundation to further amplify our impact in five strategic areas:

• Education & Financial Literacy: Organizational and capital support for programs, supplies, building products, sports facilities and teams.
• Social Services: Financial support for programs and organizations for children, veterans, hunger and housing.
• Public Health, Safety & Well-Being: Support for programs addressing public safety, emergency care and eradication of disease.

The Park Foundation Grants for Animal Welfare focus on advancing the protection and conservation of wildlife, particularly through policy and advocacy efforts for threatened species. The foundation supports innovative, solution-oriented models that foster systemic change and compassion. Key areas include organizing for endangered wildlife, indigenous management practices, and supporting sanctuaries for great apes. Additionally, the foundation is committed to local efforts, including support for the Tompkins County SPCA, ensuring a compassionate society for all living beings.

The FY26 Defense Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (DEPSCoR) Capacity Building opportunity aims to enhance the capabilities of university researchers in eligible states. Managed by the DoD, this initiative focuses on increasing the number of researchers capable of conducting relevant science and engineering research. The program also seeks to strengthen institutions of higher education and improve their competitiveness for federal research funding, ultimately fostering long-term growth in financial assistance for scientific research.

About

The Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is a bureau of the Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management.

At the State level MEMA coordinates the mitigation (risk reduction) preparedness, response and recovery from emergencies and disasters such as floods, hurricanes, earthquakes or hazardous materials spills.

MEMA also provides guidance, and assistance to county and local governments, businesses and nonprofit organizations in their efforts to provide protection to citizen and property, and increase resiliency in the face of disaster. The Agency uses strategies such as planning, training, exercise and public education to carry out its mission.

Since 2001, MEMA has been the focal point for the implementation of programs regarding Homeland Security, integrating these concerns into its all-hazard mission.

FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) Grants

The State of Maine Emergency Management Agency administers six Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Hazard Mitigation Assistance Grant Programs.

Notice of Funding Opportunity - BRIC

The BRIC grant program makes federal funds available for hazard mitigation activities with the goal of lowering future disaster costs. It does so with a recognition of the need to upgrade and modernize the nation’s infrastructure against natural weather disasters, and of the need for natural hazard risk mitigation activities and resilience with respect to those hazards.

Wegmans Family Foundation Inc focuses on cultivating healthy communities through support for hunger relief, health initiatives, education, and youth programs. They prioritize collaborations with local nonprofits to enhance community well-being, offering assistance in key areas like economic mobility and youth engagement. Despite their wide-ranging support, they have specific ineligibility criteria, such as not accommodating personal requests or solicitation on their property, aiming to direct resources effectively where they are needed most.

The Kalliopeia Foundation Grant focuses on supporting projects that foster cultural and ecological renewal through a deep reverence for the Earth. By prioritizing US-based organizations that demonstrate strong community relationships and intergenerational leadership, the foundation seeks to empower marginalized voices and traditional practices. With an emphasis on land care and Indigenous leadership, Kalliopeia aims to cultivate a resilient future where diverse ways of knowing and being thrive harmoniously with nature.