Best Physics Grants in Maine

The Environmental Engineering program encourages innovative research that integrates scientific principles to mitigate pollution and enhance ecological health. It supports projects aimed at minimizing waste, ensuring sustainable water supply, and understanding pollutants' transport in the environment. Proposals addressing these goals can focus on advanced biogeochemical processes, environmental forensics, and improving water quality. Collaboration with various institutions is welcomed, fostering impactful research in environmental engineering and sustainability.

The Cottrell Scholar Award supports early career faculty at U.S. and Canadian research universities, fostering innovative research and teaching in Chemistry, Physics, and Astronomy. This prestigious recognition emphasizes the importance of impactful research plans and educational strategies, aiming to enhance undergraduate and graduate science education. The award also encourages academic citizenship and collaboration within institutions, providing funding for three-year projects up to $120,000, thereby promoting excellence in both research and education.

The Heising-Simons Foundation invites proposals for funding science-related events such as workshops and conferences in fields like astronomy and climate change. The program aims to support basic research, foster connections among stakeholders, and enhance the communication of scientific findings. Events play a crucial role in building community, facilitating networking, and offering mentorship opportunities to underrepresented groups in science, ultimately advancing scientific discourse and collaboration.

The Betterment Fund Grant provides financial support ranging from $10,000 to $35,000 annually, aimed at enhancing education, health, conservation, and community support in Maine. The fund prioritizes systemic community initiatives that address essential human needs while favoring projects with a proven track record in grant management. Special attention is given to projects in the Western Mountains region, although broader applications that meet their criteria may also be considered.

The Movement Focus Area Grant by the Quimby Family Foundation supports Maine-based nonprofits dedicated to advancing Human Wholeness through movement and nourishment. Grants range from $2,500 to $25,000, with a focus on fostering connections between people and nature. Eligible organizations must hold a 501(c)(3) status and demonstrate community involvement. This grant aims to create equitable access to outdoor experiences and promote health and well-being through active engagement with nature.

The Wikimedia Foundation: Conference & Event Fund supports diverse groups to organize local and regional conferences, promoting knowledge sharing and skill-building. The fund prioritizes underrepresented communities and aligns with Wikimedia's 2030 Strategy. Eligible applicants must have no outstanding reports and a shared bank account. The fund encourages safe engagement with youth and considers proposals for significant regional events. For smaller grants, the Rapid Fund program may be applicable. More details on eligibility and application are available on the official site.

The Doree Taylor Charitable Foundation supports charitable organizations focused on basic provisions for underserved populations, humane care of animals, health care services, public media, and environmental initiatives. The foundation prioritizes organizations in Boothbay Harbor, Southport, and Brunswick, and encourages requests for general operating support, program support, and capital projects, while maintaining a focus on the impact of their services.

The Pew Biomedical Scholars Program offers significant funding of $300,000 over four years to support early-career researchers in biomedical sciences. The program encourages innovative and impactful research that contributes to human health, requiring nomination from one of the 212 participating institutions. Candidates must hold a doctorate, run an independent lab as an assistant professor, and demonstrate exceptional promise. This program fosters collaboration and annual meetings for scholars to present their findings.

The BES: Synthesis Grant aims to accelerate impactful research by providing £30k to form interdisciplinary synthesis groups of 8-15 members over two years. This initiative encourages collaboration across diverse institutions and career stages, promoting innovative data analysis and synthesis methods. Groups will engage in hybrid meetings, with mandatory in-person gatherings at the start and end of the project to foster long-lasting networks. Funding also supports publication efforts and the inclusion of underrepresented voices from the Global South.

The Agricultural Awareness Grant, offered by Maine Agriculture in the Classroom (MAITC), provides up to $2,000 to nonprofit organizations in Maine. This initiative promotes agricultural education through innovative projects aimed at Pre K-12 curricula. Funding supports efforts that enhance understanding of the food and fiber systems, ensuring students gain awareness of agriculture's role in society. Established in 2007, MAITC has impacted over 77,000 students, fostering community support for local agricultural policies.

The School Garden & Greenhouse Grant, offered by Maine Agriculture in the Classroom (MAITC), supports innovative educational projects that integrate agricultural concepts into Pre K-12 curricula. This initiative aims to enhance students' understanding of the food and fiber systems locally and nationally. Eligible nonprofit organizations in Maine can apply for funding, with a maximum grant duration of one year. Last year, over 77,000 students benefited from similar grants, promoting agricultural awareness and leadership.

The ESA Research Fellowship in Space Science offers early-career scientists and engineers a unique opportunity to conduct independent research across various fields such as heliophysics and astrophysics. The fellowship, lasting up to three years, provides access to leading space science resources and collaboration with top experts. Candidates from ESA member states with a completed or near-completed PhD are encouraged to apply, particularly those with up to five years of post-PhD experience. Applications from diverse backgrounds are welcomed.

The Davis Conservation Foundation offers grants to support environmental protection, wildlife conservation, and outdoor recreation initiatives. They prioritize projects in Northern New England, particularly in the Gulf of Maine and the Northern Forest. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities. The Foundation encourages community involvement and volunteerism, while avoiding funding for individuals, multiple-year gifts, or projects previously declined within a specified timeframe.

The Penn National Gaming Foundation Grants support various community initiatives across North America, emphasizing education, health services, and cultural affairs. Launched post-Hurricane Katrina, the foundation aids local nonprofits, enhancing community development, public safety, and veteran support. The grants cater to organizations that address the needs of children, senior citizens, and disadvantaged populations, ensuring a broad impact in areas where Penn National Gaming operates. This commitment reflects the foundation's dedication to uplifting communities and fostering resilience.

The Bangor Savings Bank Foundation Grant Making program provides funding between $2,000 and $25,000 to support initiatives that enhance community vitality in Northern New England. The foundation prioritizes projects that leverage additional resources, produce measurable results, and foster collaboration between public and private sectors. Quarterly and bi-annual reviews ensure timely consideration of applications. With a commitment to improving workforce and economic development, the foundation aims to make a meaningful impact in education, health, and civic services.

The H.S. Lopez Family Foundation Grant focuses on funding innovative projects that enhance the quality of life, primarily in Arizona. With an emphasis on health, education, and welfare, the foundation aims to support not-for-profit organizations that address critical community needs. Grants are awarded to initiatives that demonstrate potential for lasting impact and community benefit, encouraging sustainable support beyond the foundation's involvement.

The Arnold Newman Prize for New Directions in Photographic Portraiture, established in 2009, recognizes emerging photographers with a $20,000 award. Administered by Maine Media since 2016, the prize highlights innovative portraiture and includes an annual exhibition at the Griffin Museum. In 2025, the prize will expand to feature a professionally produced publication showcasing the winner and finalists' work, further elevating their artistic careers and contributions to photography.

The Simons Collaborations in Mathematics and the Physical Sciences program invites applications to advance critical scientific questions in mathematics and theoretical physics. This initiative supports collaborative efforts that can lead to groundbreaking discoveries. Each collaboration, backed by significant funding, aims to nurture interdisciplinary research among diverse teams. The program emphasizes measurable activities and milestones, fostering a collaborative environment among researchers at various career stages, with a strong focus on inclusivity and excellence in scientific leadership.

The Churchill Scholarships, established by Sir Winston Churchill, support students for one year of graduate study at the University of Cambridge, focusing on STEM subjects. Awarded to U.S. citizens, these scholarships cover tuition, travel, and living expenses, totaling around $65,000. Scholars gain unique research opportunities in a collaborative environment, fostering global connections and academic growth. This prestigious program emphasizes academic excellence and innovative research, making it a transformative experience for future leaders in science and technology.

The RGGS Postdoctoral Fellowships at the American Museum of Natural History support postdoctoral researchers in diverse scientific fields including Anthropology, Zoology, and Paleontology. These fellowships typically last two years, offering competitive salaries, benefits, and limited support for relocation and research activities. Candidates are encouraged to contact potential sponsors before applying and must ensure their projects align with the museum's research priorities. Special funding opportunities are available for interdisciplinary projects, enhancing the fellowship experience.

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program by the Arbor Day Foundation promotes the importance of trees on college campuses, enhancing the environment and student experience. This program encourages institutions to establish community forests, achieve national recognition, and engage students in eco-friendly initiatives. By committing to tree planting and maintenance, colleges can reduce energy consumption, combat climate change, and improve mental health. Participation fosters pride and community involvement, making campuses healthier and more beautiful places to learn.

The Linda Tilghman Healthcare Scholarship supports Noble County high school seniors enrolled in the Primary Healthcare Program at Impact Institute. Applicants must pursue a degree in healthcare and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.50. This one-time $1,000 award can be used for tuition and academic fees. To apply, students must submit an essay on their healthcare outlook and provide a reference from a teacher or employer. Funds not used for educational purposes must be returned.

The Paul and Barbara Yamber Memorial STEM Scholarship, administered by the Quad Cities Community Foundation, provides need-based financial support for students pursuing STEM fields. Annually, up to $10,000 is awarded, renewable for up to four years. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and a commitment to STEM education, ensuring that this scholarship significantly impacts their ability to attend college. Preference is given to undergraduates, making this a vital resource for aspiring STEM professionals.

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.

Young Health Programme

The Young Health Programme (YHP) is a global disease prevention initiative, aiming to provide education for young people to feel empowered to make informed choices about their health and catalyse a global, youth-led advocacy movement.

The programme operates in over 40 countries and partners with more than 60 non-profit organisations, including UNICEF and Plan International. The YHP combines community programmes, research, advocacy, and the development of young leaders, with a focus on underserved communities.

Since its launch in 2010, the YHP has directly reached over 23 million young people, trained over 1 million, and engaged more than 23,000 AstraZeneca employees, who have volunteered their time with more than 140,000 hours.

The YHP aims to prevent the most common non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including cancer, diabetes, heart disease and respiratory disease, by addressing five main risk factors: tobacco use, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, harmful use of alcohol, and air pollution. Additionally, the programme tackles climate-health impacts to build healthier communities, recognising, as projected in the IPCC Sixth Assessment Report, that children born after 2010 will be the first generation to enter adulthood in a world where the average temperature will reach 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, and are expected to experience a +2°C rise within their lifetime.1

AstraZeneca Young Health Programme Impact Fellowship 2026

AstraZeneca is looking for passionate, driven young leaders to join their 2026 Young Health Programme (YHP) Impact Fellowship. The Fellowship supports young advocates to create actionable change to: 

• Advance health equity – with a focus on acting early to prevent non-communicable diseases among young people, or supporting young people living with rare diseases.
• Take action on climate and nature – advocating for the mitigation of the harmful effects of climate change on the health and well-being of young people.
• Build health systems resilience – contributing to stronger health systems that prioritise earlier intervention to meet today’s needs and mitigate tomorrow’s disease burden.

Benefits

The selected Fellows will gain access to networks, funding and development opportunities, enabling them to drive a global health movement led by and for young people:

A fully-funded scholarship to attend the 2026 One Young World Summit in Cape Town, South Africa (3–6 November 2026) as well as access to the One Young World Ambassador Network and the Young Health Programme (YHP) Alumni group of other young changemakers working to improve youth health.

Structured learning and development offerings to enable them to scale their impact, including both self-directed and live learning. This includes access to the One Young World Academy, an award-winning mini-MBA programme, mentorship from AstraZeneca colleagues and professional training.

Each selected Fellow will receive a grant of either USD $10,000 or USD $50,000 (if selected as the Lead2030 winner** for Sustainable Development Goal 3, for which applicants will be automatically considered) from AstraZeneca, through their non-profit organisation. Fellows are expected to use the grant to implement a project focused on either (1) advancing health equity (2) taking action on climate and nature (3) building health systems resilience.

The Ekhagastiftelsen Foundation Grant aims to enhance human health through innovative research in nutrition, organic agriculture, and complementary medicine. It prioritizes projects that emphasize preventive care over reactive approaches, promoting healthier lifestyles and sustainable practices. The foundation encourages global applications, especially those involving Swedish collaboration, and supports both scientific research and practical implementations of research findings. Grants focus on projects that align with the foundation's purpose and explore alternative health solutions.

The Gladys Brooks Foundation supports innovative projects in libraries, education, hospitals, and clinics. Grants focus on resource endowments, capital construction, and equipment aimed at improving public access to information and educational resources. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations located in specific states and demonstrate that projects will be funded primarily by the grant. Applications for direct salary support or research projects are not accepted.