Best Washington County Grants for Nonprofits in Maine

The James and Marilyn Rockefeller Scholarship supports Maine residents over 18 who seek educational opportunities that will transform their lives. Designed for nontraditional students, it offers financial assistance for various training programs, including college and certificate courses. Applicants must demonstrate determination and have a clear plan for their education. This scholarship aims to alleviate the financial burden of pursuing higher education, empowering adult learners to achieve their academic goals.

The Mary W. Jackson Undergraduate Scholarship, offered by the AIAA Foundation, provides $10,000 to support students pursuing studies in aerospace sciences. Honoring NASA mathematician Mary W. Jackson, this scholarship aims to enhance access to educational opportunities for underrepresented students. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.50 and be enrolled in an accredited U.S. institution. This initiative reflects AIAA's commitment to fostering diversity and innovation in the aerospace sector.

The Bettie H. MacRae Scholarship provides financial support for nontraditional students in Maine, particularly those from Islesboro, to pursue career-related education. It emphasizes the importance of adult learners overcoming challenges in their educational journey. Eligible applicants must meet specific criteria, such as being over 25 or having dependents, and can enroll in various accredited programs, including online courses and professional training, to enhance their employment opportunities.

The Sprague Charitable Contribution Program focuses on giving back to communities through charitable donations. With awards ranging from $250 to $10,000, priority is given to organizations that support children and environmental stewardship, particularly within Sprague's operational areas. The program seeks impactful contributions that can achieve significant results, reflecting Sprague's commitment to social responsibility and community improvement.

The Parsons Family Scholarship for LGBTQ+ Youth and Allies, established by the Parsons family, supports Maine graduating high school seniors of any gender identity or sexual orientation. The scholarship awards $2,000 and is aimed at LGBTQ+ students and their allies pursuing post-secondary education at accredited institutions. Recipients will be notified by the selection committee in late May, with funds disbursed in December for the spring semester. This initiative reflects a commitment to inclusivity and support for diverse youth.

The Guy P. Gannett Journalism Scholarship supports aspiring journalists through financial assistance based on need and academic merit. Students are selected for their commitment to journalism, demonstrated through coursework and activities. This scholarship, which ranges from $1,000 to $60,000, is renewable for students pursuing journalism or related fields, provided they are graduates from Maine high schools or homeschooled in Maine. Recipients are encouraged to show continued dedication to their journalism careers.

The Wendell S. Doody Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Washburn District High School or Presque Isle High School. This scholarship aims to assist students pursuing technical education in trades such as plumbing, welding, and carpentry at community colleges in Maine. With a focus on students demonstrating academic promise, this fund is a tribute to Wendell S. Doody's legacy of hard work and community service.

The Uncle Al Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, supports musicians in Franklin and Somerset counties seeking to enhance their skills on acoustic instruments, including voice. Founded in 1983, the Maine Community Foundation promotes education through strategic giving and community leadership, awarding over $3 million annually through nearly 700 scholarship funds. This fund specifically aids those pursuing further musical development, highlighting the importance of education in the arts.

The Ronald P. Guerrette FFA Scholarship Fund, established in 1998 by friends and family, honors Ronald P. Guerrette of Caribou. This fund awards a $1,000 scholarship annually to graduating high school seniors in Maine who are FFA members and are committed to pursuing careers in farming or agriculture-related fields. The Maine Community Foundation, founded in 1983, supports this initiative by providing resources for educational opportunities across the state.

The Rice Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation in 1996, offers scholarships to students who have spent significant time on Maine's offshore islands and are pursuing higher education. This fund supports residents from both offshore and bridged islands, encouraging them to further their education at accredited institutions. Selection is based on financial need and commitment to community service, ensuring support for deserving students in Maine.

The Patriot Education Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, supports Maine high school graduates pursuing a business degree in Maine. Launched in 2007, this scholarship aims to assist students enrolled part-time or full-time in accredited institutions. With a preference for candidates interested in the insurance profession, it embodies the spirit of community support and investment in education, providing vital financial assistance to help students achieve their academic goals.

The Marion Joy Morse Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, offers financial assistance to individuals pursuing education in medical fields. Eligible applicants must have been born on Mount Desert Island or attended a school there. This scholarship can be renewed at the discretion of the Advisory Committee. Since 1984, the foundation has awarded over $3 million annually through nearly 700 scholarship funds, supporting Maine residents in their educational endeavors.

The Lydia R. Laurendeau Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation in 2013, offers renewable scholarships to young women from Maine pursuing degrees in science or engineering at four-year universities. This initiative supports female graduates aiming for careers in these fields, emphasizing the importance of education and community investment. Preference is given to applicants with Franco-American heritage, promoting diversity and inclusion in STEM education.

The K. William Wiseman Engineering Scholarship, established by the Maine Community Foundation, aims to support graduating seniors from Maine high schools pursuing engineering degrees at accredited colleges or universities. This renewable scholarship fund is part of the foundation's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities, providing financial assistance to students in need. Since its inception in 1983, the Maine Community Foundation has awarded over $3 million annually through nearly 700 scholarship funds, fostering educational growth and community leadership in Maine.

The Adult Learner Scholarship provides financial assistance to nontraditional students in Maine pursuing higher education. Aimed at those over 25, working full-time, or independent, the scholarship supports various training paths, including degrees and certificates. Award amounts typically range from $1,000 to $2,500 per semester, based on individual need and study status. Recipients can renew for up to five years, allowing them to complete their educational goals. This scholarship particularly favors applicants without a prior Bachelor's degree.

The William J. Murtagh Scholarship for Graduate Historic Preservation Studies, offered by the Maine Community Foundation, supports graduate students in historic preservation and related fields. This scholarship covers tuition, travel, and study-related expenses, fostering the growth of preservation professionals in the U.S. Eligible applicants include students from various disciplines, ensuring a diverse pool of candidates. Awards may be renewable, providing ongoing support for dedicated students in this vital area of study.

The Keepers Preservation Education Award Scholarship, offered by the Maine Community Foundation, supports aspiring and established preservation professionals in the U.S. This program provides financial assistance for tuition, travel, and resources related to historic preservation studies. Eligible candidates include students and professionals in fields like architecture, history, and law. Note that applications will not be accepted in 2025, but interested individuals should check back in 2026 for updates.

The William Bingham 2nd Scholarship for Adult Learners Fund supports Maine's nontraditional students pursuing higher education. Established in 2017 to honor philanthropist William Bingham, this scholarship alleviates financial burdens for adult learners attending accredited colleges, universities, or training programs. Eligible applicants must be Maine residents and meet specific criteria, such as being over 25 or working full-time. The scholarship emphasizes the importance of preparation and commitment to education, making it a valuable resource for those seeking to advance their skills and knowledge.

The Jeanne L. Hammond Memorial Scholarship, funded by the BPW/Maine Futurama Foundation, supports Maine women pursuing undergraduate degrees or certifications. Established in 1962, it emphasizes financial need and community involvement, with a preference for journalism students and BPW members. This scholarship aims to empower women to achieve economic self-sufficiency and contribute positively to their communities.

The Lemieux-Lovejoy Youth Scholarship, provided by the BPW/Maine Futurama Foundation, supports Maine women pursuing higher education. Established in 1962, this scholarship honors Rachel E. Lemieux and Arline Andrews Lovejoy, who were instrumental in its founding. Applicants must be Maine residents graduating high school and demonstrate financial need. This initiative aims to empower women and promote economic self-sufficiency, enabling them to achieve their educational goals and contribute positively to the community.

The BPW/Maine Futurama Foundation offers a $3000 Continuing Education Scholarship to support Maine women pursuing accredited college or training programs. Since 1962, this initiative has empowered women to achieve economic self-sufficiency through educational funding. Eligible applicants must be Maine residents, have completed at least one year of college, and demonstrate financial need. This scholarship is a vital resource for women committed to enhancing their education and career prospects.

The BPW/Maine Futurama Foundation offers the Career Advancement Scholarship, a $3000 award aimed at women aged 30 and above residing in Maine. This scholarship supports those enrolled in accredited colleges or training programs, covering both full-time and part-time studies. It assists women in improving their skills for career advancement, whether entering a new field or re-entering the job market. Since 1962, the foundation has empowered women towards economic self-sufficiency.

The Maude MacKenzie Scholarship, offered by the General Federation of Women’s Clubs in Maine, provides $1,000 annually to a deserving student who has graduated from an accredited high school in Maine, demonstrating academic achievement, leadership, and community service. Applicants must be residents of Maine and accepted into a college or university. This scholarship aims to support students in their pursuit of higher education while promoting the values of commitment and service within the community.

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.

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.