Organization Operations Grant

The Organization Operations Grant is administered by the Maine Arts Commission and provides operational support to 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organizations located in the state of Maine. This grant is intended to strengthen the state’s cultural infrastructure by sustaining organizations that promote the arts as a central mission, supporting the creative workforce, and enhancing public access to the arts across Maine. Eligible applicants must have an operating budget above $25,000 and meet specific operational, programmatic, and administrative criteria. The purpose of this grant is to offer up to $7,500 to qualifying organizations to help cover eligible operating expenses incurred within the grant period from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026. Organizations may use funds for a variety of operational expenses including salaries, facilities costs, marketing, artist and contractor fees, and administrative or accessibility-related costs. However, the grant cannot be used for equipment purchases over $5,000, construction, debt repayment, political activity, religious exclusivity, or other ineligible expenses as outlined in the guidelines. Applicants must demonstrate that at least 50% of their programming is arts-related and provide a clear mission aligned with this focus. Multipurpose organizations embedded within institutions such as universities or colleges may be eligible if they meet criteria around programming and governance. All applicants must also have completed at least one fiscal year of programming in Maine and possess a valid UEI number. Fiscal sponsorship is not allowed. The application process is hosted on the Maine Cultural Access Portal. Required materials include IRS determination letters, tax returns, staff and board lists, strategic plans, profit and loss statements, and optional artistic or testimonial materials. A 1:1 cost share match is required, which may consist of cash, donations, or in-kind contributions. Applications are reviewed competitively by panels of arts and culture professionals based on four primary criteria: mission alignment, public access and engagement, organizational health, and artistic merit. Awardees will be notified via email and must submit a final report within 14 days of the end of the fiscal year. All funded programs must comply with applicable federal and state regulations, particularly regarding accessibility and non-discrimination. The 2025 deadline has passed, and this current cycle is for reference only. However, the grant program is expected to recur annually, with updated guidelines and applications anticipated in the following year. Prospective applicants are encouraged to prepare early and contact the Commission with questions to enhance the quality of their submissions.

Emphasize mission alignment, community input, and clarity of operations and fiscal management.