Maine Land Protection Grants

From Maine Community Foundation

The Maine Community Foundation works to improve the quality of life for all Maine people. It aims to serve all of Maine, demonstrate respect for people and places, achieve quality and integrity in all actions, and remain nonpartisan. It is a statewide nonprofit organization that helps people invest charitable resources in the future of Maine, ensuring their giving benefits communities statewide.

Type of Support

Overview

The Maine Land Protection grant aims to support projects that create or increase permanent access to land and water for marginalized and historically excluded populations. These projects should involve community support and present a clear vision for the future use and care of the land. Priority is given to projects that can significantly benefit from the grant, either by paying a major portion of the purchase price, securing additional funds, or completing a fundraising campaign. Special consideration is also given to projects that benefit communities and the economy, address climate change impacts, conserve critical habitats, and enhance outdoor recreation. The funding covers costs associated with land or conservation easement purchases, including legal fees and stewardship funds, with grants up to $50,000.

Eligibility

Organization's Location
USA
Program Location
ME
Organization Type
Nonprofit, charitable organizations with IRS 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status and classified under sections 509(a)(1) or 509(a)(2)
Municipalities
Public schools
Public agencies working for the State of Maine
Indian tribal governments (or political subdivisions) recognized by the Department of the Interior
Other
  • Groups without any tax status may apply with a fiscal sponsor that meets the eligibility criteria

Ineligibility

Organizations seeking funds for staff time, general operating expenses (rent, utilities, overhead), or loan repayment
Organizations looking to cover expenses already incurred
Those intending to regrant funds to a secondary grantee competitively
Entities involved in political campaigns
Groups engaging in lobbying with calls to action on specific votes
Organizations focused on religious activities, such as services, promoting religious beliefs, or activities limited to church or religious group membership.
up to 50k

Submission

Review Criteria

Applications are strongly encouraged from Wabanaki tribal governments or their political subdivisions.