Maine Agriculture in the Classroom (MAITC) aims to enhance awareness among students about agriculture's pivotal role in the economy and society, encouraging informed citizens who back sound agricultural policies and local initiatives. Funded through specialty license plates, grants, and private contributions, MAITC has reached over 77,000 students, promoting agricultural understanding statewide and nationally since 2007.
The Agricultural Leadership Grant, supported by MAITC, focuses on leadership development for middle and high school students enrolled in agricultural courses. These grants support organized leadership programs in formal and informal education settings, aiming to equip students with leadership skills for future roles in agriculture and natural resources. Grants are up to $1,000 and cover activities for a maximum of one year, emphasizing group initiatives over individual pursuits.
We encourage the inclusion of matching contributions, which can encompass the utilization of facilities, contribution of volunteer hours, provisions of in-kind donations, participation in community engagement, provision of salaries, among others.