Best Transportation Grants in Maine

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

Nonprofits and NGOs using technology for crisis response, education access, or economic empowerment in Maine and beyond can apply for Global Impact Cash Grants, with awards up to US $100,000. Grants from Cisco Systems Foundation help tech-enabled programs serving mostly economically underserved communities, including efforts in workforce readiness, job creation, and green economy initiatives.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

Maine nonprofits, public schools, and municipalities running community programs in health, arts, education, environment, economic advancement, or animal welfare may be eligible for project support, including public transportation initiatives. Maine transportation and transit-focused organizations can access funding through Kennebunk Savings Bank Foundation if their work benefits southern York County communities.

The Labcorp Charitable Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) entity, aims to enhance healthcare access and education for all. With grant opportunities focusing on food programs, healthcare services for underserved populations, and STEM initiatives, it seeks to support community health and well-being. Organizations eligible for funding must be U.S.-based and hold tax-exempt status. Requests are reviewed biannually, in March and September, to foster impactful community projects.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

Public and private entities in Maine can seek funding to develop or expand solid waste diversion programs, including composting, organics recovery, and recycling initiatives. With a mission to protect natural resources, the State of Maine Department of Environmental Protection supports projects that reduce disposal, increase recycling infrastructure, and may benefit transportation-related waste management efforts.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

Employers, municipalities, nonprofits, human service organizations, and transportation providers in Maine can apply for Maine Department of Transportation’s Workforce Transportation Pilot funding to launch or expand workforce transit projects, with awards up to US $750,000. Grants support capital, operating, and start-up costs for rural-focused transportation connecting workers to jobs in key COVID-impacted industries.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving the Southern U.S. with programs in areas like poverty relief, education, disaster relief, or family and youth services may be eligible for funding, including work that improves transportation access in Maine. Robinson Foundation supports single-year, non-capital projects for established charities operating below the Mason-Dixon line.

Public entities and other organizations in Maine counties within the Northern Border Regional Commission region can seek funding for economic development projects that improve public infrastructure and community vitality. Grants from Northern Border Regional Commission help Maine communities modernize transportation, water and wastewater systems, expand workforce facilities, and support childcare, healthcare, and outdoor recreation infrastructure that strengthen local economies.

Northern Border Regional Commission

The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) is a partnership between the federal government and the states of Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. The NBRC targets resources to promote economic growth strategies and projects in designated counties within its member states. The Commission was enacted by Congress through the 2008 Farm Bill which amended 40 US Code to include the creation of the NBRC as well as other similar Commissions nationwide.

The mission of the Northern Border Regional Commission is to catalyze community vitality and economic prosperity in the northern border region with flexible funding and strategic support. We envision a future where heritage industries are celebrated, preserved, and supported, vibrant local communities form a rich tapestry of culture, ideas, and experiences, and the seamless integration of emerging technologies fosters a new era of prosperity and economic resiliency.

Timber for Transit Program - Feasibility Award

The Timber for Transit Program advances the use of domestic forest products in transportation infrastructure projects across Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont to showcase the capabilities of wood in these applications. Highly competitive projects will demonstrate and widely promote the utility of high value forest products (e.g. glued laminated timber, cross laminated timber, composite materials, etc.) in transportation infrastructure and commit to enhancing climate resilience in rural communities. Transportation Infrastructure shall mean construction, alteration, or repair of physical transport facilities, systems and structures, including fixed installations and rights of way necessary for transporting from one point to another, that: are open to the general public for use, facilitate reliable movement of people and goods, and influence local and regional economies.  

Early-stage activities—such as planning, inventory assessments, engineering, design, cost benefit analysis, permitting, site assessments, and environmental assessments—that support future Timber for Transit implementation projects are eligible for up to $1,000,000.  

Northern Border Regional Commission

The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) is a partnership between the federal government and the states of Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. The NBRC targets resources to promote economic growth strategies and projects in designated counties within its member states. The Commission was enacted by Congress through the 2008 Farm Bill which amended 40 US Code to include the creation of the NBRC as well as other similar Commissions nationwide.

The mission of the Northern Border Regional Commission is to catalyze community vitality and economic prosperity in the northern border region with flexible funding and strategic support. We envision a future where heritage industries are celebrated, preserved, and supported, vibrant local communities form a rich tapestry of culture, ideas, and experiences, and the seamless integration of emerging technologies fosters a new era of prosperity and economic resiliency.

Timber for Transit Program - Implementation Award

The Timber for Transit Program advances the use of domestic forest products in transportation infrastructure projects across Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont to showcase the capabilities of wood in these applications. Highly competitive projects will demonstrate and widely promote the utility of high value forest products (e.g. glued laminated timber, cross laminated timber, composite materials, etc.) in transportation infrastructure and commit to enhancing climate resilience in rural communities. Transportation Infrastructure shall mean construction, alteration, or repair of physical transport facilities, systems and structures, including fixed installations and rights of way necessary for transporting from one point to another, that: are open to the general public for use, facilitate reliable movement of people and goods, and influence local and regional economies.  

Construction or non-construction projects—such as assets and facilities that align with Timber for Transit program priorities will be classified as an implementation award. Implementation projects are eligible for up to $5,000,000.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

Maine-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits, or those with a fiscal sponsor, can apply for Quimby Family Foundation’s Movement Focus Area Grant, awarding US $2,000 - US $20,000 for nature-based physical activity and outdoor access projects. Programs that expand trails, active transportation, or equitable access to nearby nature and open spaces in Maine may be eligible.

U.S. nonprofit organizations, including those in Maine, can apply for US $1,000 - US $20,000 to support community-based programs and facilities. The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation funds museums, cultural and performing arts, education and youth services, health facilities, disability and senior services, environmental and wildlife protection, and other initiatives that can benefit local transportation-related communities.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

Nonprofits, public agencies, and eligible landowners in Maine can fund development, maintenance, and acquisition of recreational trails and related facilities with grants of US $5,000 - US $120,000. With a mission to enhance outdoor recreation, Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry supports motorized, non-motorized, and diverse-use trail projects that may complement local transportation and access networks.

Registered animal welfare charities caring for animals that have suffered cruelty can apply for the Animal Defence Trust’s one-off grants to support capital or animal protection projects, with limited help for running costs. Charities in Maine may be eligible if they are registered in the UK and fit the Trust’s focus on animal welfare and humane treatment.

Rural or tribal governments, nonprofits, and planning or university partners in Maine with populations of 50,000 or less can access funding and intensive design support for local community design challenges. Focused on rural development and creative placemaking, the Citizens’ Institute on Rural Design offers up to US $6,000 plus technical assistance that may benefit transportation-related projects.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

Rural public entities and nonprofit organizations in Maine can obtain funding to provide technical assistance, training, and infrastructure support for small rural businesses. USDA Rural Development’s Rural Business Development Grants offer US $10,000 - US $500,000 for activities like community and technology-based economic development, transportation improvements, and rural business incubators that may enhance local transportation-related initiatives.

With a mission to improve outdoor recreation and active transportation, Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry provides Maine municipalities, state subdivisions, and nonprofits with funding to design, restore, and develop public-access trails. The Maine Trails Program supports motorized, nonmotorized, and multi-use trail corridors, trailheads, and amenities, which may benefit transportation-focused projects that enhance connectivity and community access.

Nonprofit and public organizations in Maine can receive up to US $60,000 to provide transportation and lodging services that help cancer patients access screening, treatment, and supportive care. Maine Cancer Foundation also supports education, outreach, and collaborative partnerships that reduce transportation barriers for Maine residents undergoing cancer care.