Equity Fund

The Equity Fund is a grant program administered by the Maine Community Foundation (MaineCF) with the aim of supporting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) communities across the state of Maine. The foundation, which has been active in strengthening communities throughout Maine, established the Equity Fund in 1996 through a two-year matching grant from the National Lesbian and Gay Community Funding Partnership. By the end of 2000, the fund became a permanent resource within MaineCF. A community assessment and forum conducted in 2003 helped further refine its priorities and eligibility criteria. This grant program offers both general support and project grants to organizations that serve the LGBTQ+ population in Maine. General support grants provide flexible funding for ongoing or new programs, operational needs, and capital expenses. However, to qualify for this type of funding, an organization must be LGBTQ+ focused—serving at least 80% LGBTQ+ clients—and LGBTQ+ led, with representation in both staff and board. Additionally, they must have previously received an Equity Fund project grant. Project grants, on the other hand, are meant for new or expanded projects that directly serve or engage LGBTQ+ individuals in Maine and may include expenses such as staff time, equipment, training, and administrative overhead up to 20% of the total request. Funding requests for capital campaigns, endowments, scholarships, camperships, or fundraising activities are not eligible. The program prioritizes projects that address the needs of underserved geographies or populations, improve access to health care, reduce disparities, prevent violence or harassment, or promote respect and understanding. Each eligible proposal is first reviewed by staff, then assigned to a community advisor for an initial phone interview, and ultimately assessed by a community advisory committee that determines final award selections. For the 2024 funding cycle, the Equity Fund accepted applications between July 15 and September 15, with notifications to be made by December 15. In that cycle, 20 applications were submitted requesting a total of $178,510. Of these, 12 grants were awarded for a total of $107,365, with the average grant amounting to $8,947. An additional $10,000 was granted by donors outside of the main award pool. Grants are capped at a maximum of $10,000 per recipient. Applicants must meet MaineCF’s overall eligibility and non-discrimination guidelines. Applications must be submitted via the online portal accessible by clicking the “Apply” button on the foundation’s website. For questions or assistance with the application process, applicants may contact Lane Sturtevant at lsturtevant@mainecf.org or call 207-412-2019. The grant is not rolling but may recur annually based on the established application timeline.