Equity Fund

The Equity Fund, administered by the Maine Community Foundation (MaineCF), is a statewide competitive grant program supporting organizations and projects that directly benefit the LGBTQ+ community in Maine. MaineCF, a well-established philanthropic institution headquartered in Ellsworth and Portland, has facilitated grantmaking across numerous areas since its founding. The Equity Fund was initially established in 1996 with a two-year matching grant from the National Lesbian and Gay Community Funding Partnership and became a permanent fund of the foundation in December 2000. A community assessment and forum in 2003 helped clarify the fund’s focus, ensuring its priorities aligned with community needs. The primary purpose of the Equity Fund is to strengthen LGBTQ+ organizations and support initiatives that serve the LGBTQ+ population across Maine. The program offers two types of funding: general support grants and project grants. General support grants are unrestricted and designed for organizations seeking funding for ongoing programs, operational needs, or capital expenses. To be eligible for general support, organizations must serve a population that is at least 80% LGBTQ+, be LGBTQ+ led at both board and staff levels, and have previously received an Equity Fund project grant. In contrast, project grants support new or expanded projects with specific objectives and timelines. These grants can include staff time, equipment, materials, training, and up to 20% of administrative overhead. Grants will not fund capital campaigns, endowments, scholarship programs, or capital expenses such as equipment or building materials. Fundraising expenses and tuition-related costs for camps or educational programs are also ineligible. The evaluation process begins with a staff eligibility review, followed by assignment of eligible proposals to community advisors for applicant interviews. Final funding decisions are made by a community advisory committee that reviews all applications and selects those that best meet the fund's criteria and priorities. Proposals that address the needs of underserved populations or regions, improve access to healthcare or reduce health disparities, reduce harassment or violence, or foster respect and understanding receive priority consideration. In the 2024 cycle, 20 applications were submitted, with 12 grants awarded, totaling $107,365. The average grant amount was approximately $8,947, with an additional $10,000 awarded through donor-advised funds. Applicants are notified of funding decisions by December 15. The application cycle opens annually on July 15 and closes on September 15 at 11:59 p.m. Applications must be submitted through the foundation’s online portal by clicking the orange “Apply” button on the website. For questions or assistance, applicants can contact Lane Sturtevant at lsturtevant@mainecf.org or by phone at 207-412-2019.