Maine Office of Touristm: Maine Communities Grant Program

The Maine Communities Grant is a funding initiative under the Maine Tourism Marketing Partnership Program (MTMPP), administered by the Maine Office of Tourism. This grant is designed to support local, community-centered tourism marketing projects and events that promote visitation and strengthen local identity. The program prioritizes projects that are aligned with the MOT’s Destination Management Plan and Stewardship Principles, ensuring that tourism supports the long-term vitality of Maine’s communities while encouraging sustainable practices. This grant program is tailored for Maine municipalities, tribal governments, and Maine-based nonprofit organizations with a 501c3, 501c6, or L3C designation. Additionally, other local entities such as chambers of commerce or community groups may apply through a qualified nonprofit fiscal agent. For-profit businesses are not eligible to apply directly. Projects must aim to attract visitors from more than 50 miles away and align with sustainable tourism practices as outlined in MOT guidelines. Organizations may only hold one MOT grant contract per fiscal year, and applicants with prior MOT grant awards within the last six years must demonstrate growth or a shift in strategy. The grant provides awards ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 and is reimbursement-based, meaning that recipients must cover expenses upfront and submit documentation for reimbursement after the project milestones are completed. A combination of cash and in-kind matching support is highly encouraged and must be clearly detailed in both the budget and project scope. Acceptable project activities include paid advertising, public relations, digital content development, website upgrades, and tourism-focused printed materials such as brochures and maps. Ineligible expenses include administrative overhead, food, alcohol, promotional merchandise, equipment rental, new websites, and fundraising activities. To apply, organizations must submit seven distinct documents including an overview of the organization and project, proof of legal standing, a detailed budget, timeline of deliverables, vendor authorization form, two letters of community support, and a letter confirming agreement to the Low Value Service Contract. These documents must be submitted via an online portal no later than November 12, 2025, at 2 p.m., and applicants are required to register or update their profiles at least 14 days in advance of the deadline. All materials must be properly labeled to facilitate review. Grant applications are evaluated by the MOT Review Committee based on criteria such as project clarity, community collaboration, strategy and implementation, potential economic impact, and alignment with state tourism goals. Final awards are subject to negotiation and approval by the Commissioner of the Department of Economic and Community Development. Award announcements will occur during the week of December 5, 2025, and contracts will be active from January 1 to December 31, 2026. Applicants seeking guidance or clarification are encouraged to contact Christine Rosen, Development Project Officer, at Christine.Rosen@maine.gov or (207) 592-6251. The grant guidelines and related tools are available at the MOT Partners website for reference.

Clearly label all submission files. Use measurable objectives. Include community letters that demonstrate benefit and engagement.