Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in Maine

The Music and Entertainment Industry Educators Association (MEIEA) offers Student Enrichment Grants to support educational activities in the music and entertainment fields. Grants of up to $1,000 are available for accredited institutions that are MEIEA members. Eligible projects include workshops, guest speakers, and community service initiatives. Special consideration is given to first-time applicants and projects promoting diversity and inclusion, aiming to enrich student experiences and foster greater engagement within the industry.

The OJJDP FY 2026 Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Program Support aims to fortify a national network of 61 multiagency task forces dedicated to combating child sexual exploitation facilitated by technology. This funding opportunity enhances training, prevention, and outreach efforts while fostering collaboration among law enforcement entities. Applications are due in JustGrants by November 9, 2026, at 8:59 p.m. ET, ensuring timely support for critical initiatives to protect children.

The Student Enrichment Grants: Level II Awards, offered by the Music & Entertainment Industry Educators Association (MEIEA), provide up to $500 for non-institutional members to support student activities in music and entertainment. Eligible applicants include faculty in good standing, promoting diverse initiatives. Grants can fund workshops, guest speakers, and community projects, with a focus on enhancing student education and engagement in the industry. Special consideration is given to first-time applicants and impactful projects.

The OJJDP FY 2026 Second Chance Act Youth Reentry Program aims to provide critical support for moderate- to high-risk youth transitioning back into their communities after confinement. This funding opportunity encourages collaboration among state agencies, local governments, Tribes, and community organizations to deliver comprehensive reentry services and assist youth in overcoming challenges related to recidivism. Applications are due by November 9, 2026, at 8:59 p.m. ET.

The Updated National Dislocated Worker Grant Program Guidance addresses the opioid crisis by prioritizing funding for applicants who demonstrate a critical need and have not previously received opioid-related grants. Key updates include eliminating Disaster-Relief Employment as a requirement, emphasizing the inadequacy of workforce resources, and encouraging applications that focus on training qualified professionals in relevant fields. These changes ensure that the program aligns with current policies and effectively supports communities impacted by the opioid epidemic.

The Guy Bradley Award, established in 1988 by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), honors individuals who have made significant contributions to wildlife law enforcement. Named after the first wildlife officer killed in the line of duty, this award recognizes the vital role of law enforcement agents in wildlife conservation. Eligible candidates include current and retired personnel from state and federal agencies who have demonstrated exemplary dedication to protecting wildlife and advancing enforcement goals.

The Craft Archive Fellowship supports archival research on underrepresented craft histories in the U.S., including feminist, queer, Black, Indigenous, and other marginalized communities. It offers a $5,000 stipend for scholars and artists to conduct research in chosen archives, encouraging innovative approaches. Participants will present their findings in a virtual program, and their work will be published in Hyperallergic, broadening accessibility and awareness of vital craft research.

The Alpha Sigma Chapter, Alpha Delta Kappa, Inc. Scholarship supports aspiring educators in Saginaw County. Established in 2018, it honors the legacy of women educators dedicated to improving educational excellence. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5, be full-time students pursuing an undergraduate degree in education, and demonstrate residency in Saginaw County. The scholarship amount ranges from $500 to $4,000, with preference given to previous recipients. This initiative aims to foster the next generation of educators.

The Collaborative Centers in Children’s Environmental Health Research and Translation program aims to establish a national network of research centers focused on improving children's health through innovative research and public health strategies. By fostering collaboration within the children’s environmental health community, these centers will lead the way in translating scientific findings into actionable practices, ensuring a healthier future for children while addressing emerging environmental threats.

Stanislaus Community Foundation provides scholarship opportunities for students in order to help them achieve their educational and career goals. We believe that by investing in our students, we are investing in a brighter future for Stanislaus. 

Scholarship Athletes of Stanislaus - Formerly Tom Mellis Memorial

Open to high school graduating seniors participating in a Varsity sport. Must demonstrate strong academics, leadership qualities, and community service.

Award Amount:

• $2,500

The Jean Theodore Lacordaire Prize, awarded by the Coleopterists Society, recognizes exceptional doctoral research in beetle biology and systematics. This annual prize is open to nominations for the best published paper derived from Ph.D. dissertations, focusing on Coleoptera. Eligible works must be published in widely available journals or books in any language using the Latin alphabet. Nominations are submitted by the scientific community, ensuring a prestigious selection process.

The Richard I. Stessel Waste Management Award, presented annually by the Air & Waste Management Association, honors outstanding achievements in waste management. This prestigious award acknowledges individuals and organizations for their significant contributions to the science and practice of waste management, including technological advancements, waste regulation, and educational excellence. Named after Professor Richard I. Stessel, the award promotes innovative solutions for environmental sustainability, encouraging professionals to serve as role models in the field.

The Friends of Reservoirs: Small Grant program offers annual grants of $2,000 to member organizations of Friends of Reservoirs, with additional product donations bringing the total value over $3,500. This initiative, supported by generous sponsors, aims to enhance reservoir fisheries habitats. Applicants should note a $25 application fee, which contributes directly to the grant fund. This program focuses on fostering community engagement and improving aquatic ecosystems.

The American Business Women’s Association – Saginaw Charter Chapter Scholarship supports women pursuing higher education, fostering personal and professional growth. Established in 1954, this scholarship encourages female students in Saginaw County to achieve their academic goals, particularly those enrolled in career and technical education programs. With awards ranging from $500 to $4,000, it aims to empower women in various fields by providing financial assistance, ensuring that the next generation of businesswomen can thrive and contribute to their communities.

The DoW Arthritis Translational Research Award, funded by the U.S. Army Medical Command, aims to support high-impact translational research focused on accelerating findings into clinically relevant solutions for arthritis. This award is intended for preclinical or animal research, emphasizing the significance of the proposed outcomes in advancing arthritis research and benefiting Service Members, Veterans, and their Families. Applications must include preliminary or published data to demonstrate the feasibility and relevance of the research.

The FY26 Arthritis Research Program Clinical Research Award supports innovative clinical research addressing factors and interventions for arthritis. This program encourages proposals focusing on Prevention and Early Diagnosis or Treatment and Mitigation of Disease Progression. Applicants can choose between two research levels, with the requirement of a community collaborator for Research Level 2. Projects should aim to provide actionable evidence to enhance patient care and outcomes, making significant contributions to the field of arthritis research.

The Student Research Fellowship Awards program provides financial support of up to $2,500 for students conducting research on Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) for a minimum of 10 weeks. Aimed at undergraduate, medical, and graduate students, the initiative encourages research interest in IBD. Up to 16 awards are available, and research must be conducted under a qualified mentor at an accredited institution, ensuring a professional academic environment for the study of this critical health issue.

The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation awards Research Fellowship Awards to support post-doctoral individuals pursuing innovative research in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). With a maximum award of $70,000 per year for up to three years, the program encourages research aimed at understanding and preventing IBD progression. Eligible applicants must hold an MD or PhD and demonstrate relevant research experience. This initiative fosters the development of future independent researchers in the field of IBD.

The Gene Robb Journalism Scholarship, offered by The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region, recognizes the significant contributions of former Times Union publisher Gene Robb to journalism. It is designed for students with a demonstrated interest in journalism, requiring them to submit samples of their work. This scholarship supports both high school and college students aiming to excel in the field, empowering them to pursue their educational goals.

Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation

For more than 50 years, NCCF has been taking on tough problems to improve the quality-of-life in Northwest CT by supporting nonprofits that speak to the charitable passions of our generous donors.

NCCF is a Community Foundation, a tax-exempt public charity that enables donors to establish funds that support the work of local nonprofits through grants and provide scholarships to local students.

Russell F. Bruno Scholarship

For Torrington High School graduating seniors who have excelled in the study of English and are planning to major in writing, literature, journalism or a related field.

The CareQuest Institute for Oral Health® is inviting proposals for school-based and school-linked initiatives aimed at improving oral health access for high-risk children. This grant opportunity seeks to address systemic barriers to oral health through innovative programs that engage schools and communities. Ideal projects may include workforce development, community engagement strategies, policy advocacy, and the use of technology. Proposals should focus on creating equitable oral health solutions that enhance both health and academic success for children and their families.

Fuel Up

We’re Fuel Up – an initiative created by America’s Dairy Farmers to help meet the needs of schools across the country when it comes to fueling healthy bodies and healthy minds.

Fuel Up is all about educators, students and partners working together to make a difference in their schools and their communities.

Fuel Up is an initiative focused on helping educators and students fuel wellness in the areas that matter most, like being mindful and staying healthy. Our educational resources, partnerships and grant/funding opportunities aim to broaden access to good nutrition and overall wellness.

School Nutrition Equipment Grants

Nutrition equipment grants are now available through GENYOUth's End Student Hunger initiative, with applications now open in the new School Wellness Portal.

K-12 schools can apply for an equipment grant to help increase students' access to, and participation in, nutritious school meals.

Overview of Fuel Up Equipment Grant

• One of two nutrition equipment kits—each valued at $2,000—is available to qualified K-12 schools to improve access to nutritious foods.

• Your application must demonstrate how the funding will increase your students’ access to and their consumption of dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese). Your local Dairy Council can help you with ideas for how to increase dairy.

• Applications will be evaluated based on a variety of factors, including school enrollment, student reach, in-school support, school location, and the sustainability of the proposed program. Consideration will be given to schools in underserved communities whose students are most at risk for poor nutrition and childhood obesity.

• You are encouraged to contact your local Dairy Council with questions about the application process. They can be especially helpful in suggesting ways to increase dairy consumption at your school.

Schools can visit the GENYOUth School Wellness Portal to review eligibility requirements, explore equipment options, and begin an application.  

The Walking College Fellowship, offered by America Walks, is an innovative online program aimed at empowering community champions to enhance walkability. Participants engage in six modules, committing 5-10 hours weekly, to develop actionable plans addressing local challenges. Over 200 alumni have successfully implemented initiatives such as sidewalk installations and complete streets policies. The program encourages diverse candidates, fostering collaboration and effective advocacy for safer, more accessible communities.

Who We Are

Founded in 1996, the Community Foundation of South Georgia is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to making South Georgia a better place to live through effective philanthropy. We help individuals, families, nonprofit organizations and businesses establish and manage charitable funds that carry out their philanthropic interests. Serving a geographic area of 35 counties in South Georgia, we facilitate our donors’ charitable plans and goals by creating custom designed funds that meet their specific interests and ensure solid financial management and administration for each fund. 

Tucker Baptist Association Scholarship

For a high school graduate who is also a member of a church which is part of the Tucker Baptist Association. The applicant must be enrolled in a seminary, Bible college, or other educational institution where they are training for a Christian gospel ministry vocation. This may include but is not limited to, training as a pastoral minister, youth minister, music minister, educational minister, or foreign or home missionary. The training may be a degree program such as a Masters of Divinity, etc., or the training may be a seminar or educational course related to ministry development.

Jazz Road Tours Grants provide financial support for emerging and mid-career jazz artists to develop tours across communities in the U.S. Grants up to $15,000 facilitate three-to-six site tours, focusing on underserved areas. This program, funded by the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation and the Mellon Foundation, aims to enhance artists' income opportunities while promoting jazz in diverse venues. Applications are encouraged from individual artists, with deadlines throughout 2024 and 2025 for various tour periods.

The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Initiative Grant aims to promote innovative educational programs and enhance diversity within the nurse anesthesia profession. This grant supports efforts such as workshops, lectures, and online learning modules that address DEI issues. By funding these initiatives, the AANA Foundation seeks to foster an inclusive environment and advance the understanding of equity and diversity in the anesthesia community, benefiting both current and future practitioners.

The ASTRO-PCF Young Investigator Award, a collaboration between the Prostate Cancer Foundation and the American Society for Radiation Oncology, supports early-career researchers in prostate cancer. It offers $225,000 over three years to young investigators under 35, enabling them to further their research and career. Awardees are required to participate in the Annual PCF Scientific Retreat and Young Investigator Forum, fostering a community dedicated to advancing the field of radiation oncology.