Best Maine Grants for Nonprofits

The Gridiron Veterans Scholarship, provided by the Bob Woodruff Foundation, offers essential financial support for military veterans and first responders. This initiative focuses on wellness, rehabilitation, and recovery programs, ensuring participants can access mental health services, physical therapy, and holistic resources. The foundation prioritizes those facing emotional and physical challenges, empowering them to overcome barriers and improve their quality of life through customized, evidence-based support.

The Snowmobile Municipal Grant supports municipalities and counties in funding the construction and maintenance of snowmobile trails. It requires a one-year commitment and local financial contribution, with the potential for state matching funds of up to 50% or 70% for collaborative projects. Eligible expenses include labor, materials, and equipment rental. This grant encourages local governments to actively participate in maintaining existing trails, fostering regional recreational opportunities.

The Maine Humanities Council offers Major Grants to support nonprofit organizations in Maine that engage the community through rich humanities programs. With funding between $1,001 and $7,500, these grants aim to foster deeper understanding and connections among diverse audiences. Projects may include exhibits, films, and discussions, emphasizing broad public outreach and community involvement. Emphasis is placed on proposals that demonstrate strong humanities content and clear project goals.

The USTA New England Game Changer Grant offers up to $20,000 to support innovative projects that promote tennis and healthy communities across New England. This funding opportunity is aimed at high-impact initiatives that align with USTA New England's mission. Please note that ongoing program expenses like court time and coach salaries are not eligible for funding. Providers can seek assistance through the USTA Tennis Venue Services application process.

Cherokee Nation Foundation

The Cherokee Nation Foundation is a nonprofit organization serving the Cherokee Nation, a federally recognized tribe of more than 470,000 citizens. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities to Cherokee students so they can reach their full potential. The Cherokee Nation Foundation is a tax-exempt charitable organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Scholarships

Cherokee Nation Foundation offers a diverse range of scholarships to help reverse the trend of rising student debt. Students may receive up to two CNF scholarships per academic year. All opportunities are reserved for Cherokee Nation citizens, unless otherwise noted in the description.

Clarkson Family Scholarship

Applicant must be a current full-time student or a graduating high school senior with a minimum 3.0 GPA, attending a college/university or higher education institution in New England (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island or Vermont). This is a one-year scholarship reserved for Cherokee Nation citizens.

About 

The National Sea Grant College Program was established by the U.S. Congress in 1966 and works to create and maintain a healthy coastal environment and economy. The Sea Grant network consists of a federal/university partnership between the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and 34 programs in every coastal and Great Lakes state, Puerto Rico, and Guam.

The Northeast Sea Grant Consortium is a regional collaboration that includes 8 Sea Grant programs in 7 Northeast states: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont.

The Northeast Sea Grant Consortium collaborates on regional initiatives in research, education, extension, and communications—leveraging local expertise to create regional benefits and accomplishments.

American Lobster Initiative (ALI) Collaborative Research

The Sea Grant American Lobster Initiative is pleased to announce funding to support new collaborative research projects that closely align with emerging lobster industry and management needs. This request for proposals (RFP) adds to the substantial breadth of previous ALI-funded research by prioritizing projects that create “actionable science” (outputs and findings of the scientific process are useful to and usable by end-user communities) through the co-creation of information and/or products. 

To reach this goal, the ALI seeks to support collaborative research practices, the sharing of knowledge, expertise, and resources/capacities amongst the many people who comprise the American lobster industry. Projects must be developed and led by collaborative research teams that include at least one fishing industry representative, such as a commercial fisherman or a representative from a commercial fishing business, including cooperatives, dealers and processors. This call emphasizes research conducted with and for the industry, offering an exciting opportunity to support and elevate industry-research-management partnerships to address current ecological, regulatory, and socio-economic challenges faced by the American lobster fishery.

The Sea Grant American Lobster Initiative invites proposals for collaborative research projects to be funded from December 1, 2026 to December 31, 2028. Projects can be up to two years in duration, with a recommended duration of no less than 18 months. 

This opportunity is designed to support collaborative research conducted by those affiliated with the American lobster industry (including shoreside supply chain businesses), and any public or private higher education institution, municipal, state, federal, or tribal entity, research laboratory, or other community or non-profit institution. This opportunity is not open to single investigator proposals.

A total of $400,000 is available to support up to 8 two-year project awards. Project budgets cannot exceed $100,000 (including all direct and indirect costs), and must include non-federal cost share is required for this competition. See full RFP for guidance.

About Us

The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is responsible for protecting and restoring Maine's natural resources and enforcing the state's environmental laws. The agency can trace its roots back to the Sanitary Water Board that was created in 1941. The purpose of that Board was to study, investigate, recommend means of eliminating and preventing pollution in waters used for recreational purposes. The Board was renamed the Water Improvement Commission in 1951. In 1969, the Commission's title was abbreviated to the Environmental Improvement Commission.

Solid Waste Diversion Grant Program

The Maine Legislature established the Maine Solid Waste Diversion Grant Program to provide grants to public and private entities to assist in the development, implementation or improvement of programs, projects, initiatives or activities designed to increase the diversion of solid waste from disposal in the State.

Funding will be considered for proposals which include, programs, projects or ideas that address, but are not limited to:

• Establishing municipal or regional composting, organics recovery or recycling programs,
• urchasing infrastructure, equipment or other items necessary to implement such programs or improve existing programs,
• Programs or projects designed to provide equipment for or otherwise support residential composting and recycling,
• Programs or business models designed to collect, transport for processing or process organic or recyclable materials,
• Pilot programs designed to evaluate the feasibility of targeted composting, organics recovery, recycling or other waste management programs or initiatives, or
• Initiatives or programs designed to educate certain categories of individuals or the general public about composting, organics recovery or recycling or to otherwise improve individual or community waste management practices.

Applications should include information demonstrating how programs will:

• Take advantage of regional economies of scale,
• Increase organics management and recycling infrastructure in underserved areas of the state,
• Promote waste reduction through reuse, repair, and sharing economy initiatives,
• Reduce wasted food through donation or other sharing initiatives,
• Enhance the delivery of educational initiatives to promote organics management or recycling efforts,
• Address a statewide need,
• Reduce “carbon footprint” of existing or proposed waste management programs, and/or
• Expand the types of materials managed through composting and recycling.

The IDeA Networks of Biomedical Research Excellence (INBRE) program aims to enhance biomedical research capacity in underfunded states by fostering collaborations among research institutions. By supporting faculty research, mentoring, and student involvement, INBREs create pathways for undergraduate students to enter biomedical careers. This initiative not only promotes institutional partnerships but also strengthens research infrastructure, ultimately contributing to a more robust scientific community in IDeA states.

The Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program provides grants for graduate students to research sustainable agriculture under faculty supervision. Proposals should address relevant issues for Northeast farmers and agricultural professionals. Projects should align with themes of stewardship, profitability, and quality of life. The aim is to support diversified and profitable agriculture in the Northeast, enhancing community and environmental well-being through effective resource management.

Northeast SARE

The Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) Program offers competitive grants to farmers, educators, agricultural service providers, researchers, graduate students and others to address key issues affecting the sustainability of agriculture throughout our region. Northeast SARE is one of four regional SARE programs funded by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture. The program—including funding decisions—is driven by the Northeast SARE outcome statement:

Agriculture in the Northeast will be diversified and profitable, providing healthful products to customers. Farmers and the people they work with will steward resources to ensure sustainability and resilience, and foster conditions where farmers have high quality of life and communities can thrive.

Professional Development Grant

The Professional Development Grant program funds projects that help service providers improve the way they work with farmers through research-based education. These projects result in a change in practice or behavior by service providers that supports farmers in sustainable agriculture innovation.

Northeast SARE’s definition of a service provider is a professional who assists farmers as part of their work. Typical audiences include extension educators, consultants, agency personnel, and not-for-profit organization staff. Project audiences may include realtors, bankers, attorneys, or farmers who help other farmers.

The Northeast SARE: Farmer Grant Program supports innovative sustainable agriculture projects by providing funding to farmers. Grants ranging from $5,000 to $30,000 enable farmers to conduct research, implement new ideas, and address issues affecting long-term sustainability. This program encourages proposals that explore diverse topics such as crop production, livestock raising, urban agriculture, and climate-smart practices. Successful projects promise significant benefits to farming communities while fostering collaboration and education within the agricultural sector.

The Northeast SARE Partnership Grant Program supports innovative projects that enhance sustainable agriculture practices through collaboration between agricultural service providers and farmers. With funding up to $30,000, the program encourages research and education initiatives that address sustainability challenges in Northeast farming systems. It aims to foster partnerships that lead to better agricultural practices and community well-being, focusing on involving farmers directly in project development.

Northeast SARE

The Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) Program offers competitive grants to farmers, educators, agricultural service providers, researchers, graduate students and others to address key issues affecting the sustainability of agriculture throughout our region. Northeast SARE is one of four regional SARE programs funded by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture. The program—including funding decisions—is driven by the Northeast SARE outcome statement:

Agriculture in the Northeast will be diversified and profitable, providing healthful products to customers. Farmers and the people they work with will steward resources to ensure sustainability and resilience, and foster conditions where farmers have high quality of life and communities can thrive.

Northeast SARE Research and Education Grants

The purpose of the Research and Education grant program is to invest in education for farmers that leads to changes in farmer behavior, decision-making, and/or practices. These changes must increase the sustainability of farming in the Northeast United States. A Research and Education project can also include an applied research component, related to the educational activities.

• The primary audience are farmers, ranchers, and farm employees (henceforth “farmers”) that meet Northeast SARE’s Definition of a Farm.
• Farmers must be engaged in demonstrating the need for and the design of the project.
• Anyone who works in farming, including farmers, can lead a Research and Education project.
• The education program must be useful to farmers regardless of the results of any optional research component.

This grant program seeks innovative projects that improve existing practices or introduce existing practices to new farmer audiences.

The Point32Health Foundation Grant focuses on advancing equity in aging by providing multi-year, general operating grants to nonprofits in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island. The foundation emphasizes collaboration with community organizations to address systemic inequities and improve health outcomes for older adults. Grant applications are accepted at various times, with specific deadlines for advocacy and social justice projects. The foundation seeks to honor the voices of those most affected by inequities.

The Maine Artist Fellowship in Performing Arts celebrates artistic excellence among Maine artists. It offers merit-based awards to individuals or collectives, focusing on creativity and vision. The fellowship provides unrestricted financial support, promotional opportunities, and networking events to advance the artist's career. Eligible artists include those in theatre, dance, music, and other live performance genres. One artist per discipline will be selected, fostering a diverse cohort of seven Maine Artist Fellows.

The Maine Artist Fellowship in Literary Arts recognizes the exceptional talent of Maine artists across various writing genres, including fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. This merit-based fellowship offers unrestricted funding to help artists advance their careers. Selected fellows gain visibility through Maine Arts Commission publications and year-long promotional support, culminating in a Fellowship Reception. Eligibility includes being a Maine resident, at least 25 years old, and not currently enrolled in school. This opportunity fosters community and collaboration among artists.

Farmers Drought Relief Fund

The Department is making grants available to farmers to address the need for agricultural water management plans and the installation of agricultural water sources, including:

• Dug wells
• Drilled wells
• Gravel-packed wells
• Water storage ponds

Overview

Background and Purpose

The Maine Farmer Drought Relief Fund (FDRF) was created by the Maine Legislature (7 M.R.S.A., Chapter 8-A, subchapter 4 § 220-A(3)) to assist farmers in the State to overcome the adverse effects of drought conditions by providing grants.

The Department will make up to $ 930,000 available for installation of agricultural water sources from nonlapsing funding. An additional $ 300,000 may be available from FY 27 funding after July 1, 2026 and may be used to fund additional projects at the discretion of the Department.

The Department reserves the right to determine the number of awards and modify, partially fund, or increase awards at the Department’s discretion.

The Maine Artist Fellowship in Visual Arts honors exceptional talent among Maine artists, providing unrestricted awards to advance their careers. Selected artists will receive year-long promotion, inclusion in digital publications, and opportunities for networking and collaboration. This merit-based fellowship is open to individual artists or collectives, with specific eligibility criteria, including residency requirements and age restrictions. The fellowship culminates in a reception with Maine Arts Staff, fostering community and artistic growth.

The Maine Artist Fellowship for Traditional Arts honors exceptional Maine artists committed to preserving traditional art forms. This merit-based award supports artists by providing unrestricted funds, promotional opportunities, and networking events throughout the year. Selected fellows will showcase their work on the Maine Arts Commission website and participate in a reception with staff and commissioners. This fellowship aims to recognize and sustain vital cultural practices among Maine's artistic communities.

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on improving economic mobility and social progress through partnerships with nonprofits. It prioritizes basic needs, income creation, stable housing, and community empowerment. By supporting vulnerable populations, the foundation aims to enable individuals to achieve their goals and contribute positively to their communities. The foundation emphasizes sustainable progress, ensuring that all community members have access to essential resources and opportunities for growth.

The Thomas Musgrave and Beulah Long Musgrave Scholarship supports Maine residents pursuing higher education as nontraditional students. Aimed at those facing financial challenges, this scholarship helps alleviate the costs associated with attending two- and four-year colleges, certificate programs, or self-directed learning experiences. The scholarship is available to applicants who meet specific criteria, including being over 25 years old or working full-time while studying. It encourages individuals to prepare adequately before applying.

The John Sage Foundation supports projects that enhance the relationship between people and the natural environment, primarily in Maine. Since its inception in 1992, it has funded various initiatives, including land acquisition, water testing, and environmental education. The foundation is open to funding a range of projects but may concentrate its resources on a single entity in a grant cycle. Notably, it does not support political advocacy efforts.

The Maine Artist Fellowship in Media Arts recognizes outstanding artistic achievement among Maine artists. This merit-based award supports individual artists and collectives in disciplines such as film, video, animation, and podcasts. Recipients receive unrestricted funding to advance their careers and benefit from year-long promotion, networking opportunities, and a reception at the Blaine House. Eligible applicants must be Maine residents, at least 25 years old, and not currently enrolled in school, ensuring a focus on professional artists.

The Mattina R. Proctor Foundation Grant focuses on healthcare initiatives in Maine and Massachusetts, supporting projects that address public health and medical research. With grants typically ranging from $2,500 to $50,000, the foundation seeks to impact underserved populations through diabetes research, dental care, and preventative healthcare measures. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations demonstrating a specific need, emphasizing the foundation's commitment to meaningful, community-focused giving.

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 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.