Creative Communities Grant

The Creative Communities Grant is a funding initiative of the Maine Arts Commission aimed at fostering community transformation through the integration of arts and culture. Designed to support creative placemaking, the grant helps communities in Maine implement arts-based projects that directly respond to local needs while enhancing the cultural and physical identity of their areas. This grant program emphasizes accessibility, community involvement, and public benefit. The funding is intended to create more vibrant, connected, and welcoming spaces where people want to live, work, visit, and play. The primary goals of the Creative Communities Grant include expanding access to the arts across Maine’s communities, addressing specific community challenges, promoting local identity, and embedding artists and culture bearers into the fabric of community initiatives. Eligible projects must be community-centered and open to the public. Activities may include planning and preparation, materials and equipment (under $5000), artist hiring, workshops, exhibitions, productions, and collaborative programs. Importantly, the program encourages inclusive access, particularly through accommodations for people of all abilities. Eligibility for this grant extends to a wide array of entities including cultural organizations, public K–12 schools (through their school districts), municipalities, tribal governments, and non-arts nonprofit organizations with valid 501(c)(3) tax status. All applicants must be based in Maine, have a valid UEI number from SAM.gov, and be in compliance with both state and federal organizational requirements. Entities that have received prior Maine Arts Commission funding must have submitted all required final reports to remain eligible. Fiscal sponsorship is not permitted; non-501(c)(3) applicants must apply independently. The grant awards up to $7,000 and requires a 1:1 cost share match, which can include cash, in-kind contributions, or donations. The performance period for awarded projects is July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027. Grant funds may not be used for certain categories of expenditures, including but not limited to debt repayment, equipment over $5000, political or lobbying efforts, and capital construction projects. Awards will be distributed after a formal letter of agreement is signed, and awardees may be reimbursed for expenses incurred during the performance period. Final reporting is mandatory and due 14 days after the fiscal year ends. The application portal opens on February 25, 2026, and the deadline to submit all materials is March 30, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Applications must be submitted through the online Maine Cultural Access Portal. Applicants are required to complete several narrative sections, including project summary, community engagement, and project feasibility. Additionally, a detailed budget must be provided, along with a copy of the IRS determination letter or municipal authorization (depending on applicant type). Optional support materials, such as images, testimonials, or work samples, are encouraged to strengthen the application. Applications undergo a two-stage review process. First, staff verify completeness and eligibility, followed by evaluation by a diverse panel of arts and cultural professionals. Applications are scored based on four criteria: project summary (20%), community engagement and access (40%), project feasibility (20%), and artistic merit (20%). All applicants will be notified of their status via email. For questions or technical assistance, applicants are encouraged to contact Eli Cabañas, Grants and Website Manager, at [email protected] or 207-215-5872.

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