The Creative Communities Grant supports creative placemaking initiatives that transform Maine communities through arts and culture.
Donor Name: Maine Arts Commission
State: Maine
County: All Counties
Type of Grant: Grant
Deadline: 03/30/2026
Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000
Grant Duration: 1 Year
Details:
This program funds arts-based projects that respond to community needs and strengthen local identity, making Maine’s communities more vibrant, connected, and desirable places to live, visit, work, and play.
By integrating artists and culture bearers into community development, this grant enables projects that shape the social, physical, and cultural character of a place. All activities must be communitybased, directly benefit the public, and remain open and accessible to all.
Creative Communities Grant Goals:
- Expand community access to the arts.
- Support and address community needs.
- Strengthen the unique identities of Maine’s communities as distinctive, attractive places.
- Integrate artists and culture bearers into community projects.
Funding Information
Grants Up to $7,000.
Grant Period
July 1, 2026-June 30, 2027.
Eligible Expenses
Awards may be used for activities that support your project goals for things such as:
- Materials or equipment;
- Productions or installations;
- Planning and preparation;
- Tours or Exhibition costs;
- Workshops;
- Hiring artists;
- Collaborative programming with other organizations;
- Costs for ensuring your programs provide accommodations for people of all abilities.
Eligibility Criteria
- Cultural organizations, K-12 schools, municipalities, tribal entities, and non-art 501(c)(3) organizations may apply. Public schools must apply through their school district. Projects must be community-focused arts and/or cultural activities.
- An applicant who meets these criteria may apply:
- The applicant is a nonprofit organization with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status from the Internal Revenue Service, a school, or is a unit of municipal, county or tribal government, legally established in the state of Maine. Non-501(c)(3) applicants cannot apply under a fiscal sponsor or agent.
- The applicant operates within the state of Maine.
- Has a valid UEI number (www.sam.gov). You cannot receive a grant without a valid UEI.
- If applicable, has completed all Final Reports required by the Maine Arts Commission for previous awards.
- Is compliant with organization requirements on both the state and federal levels.
For more information, visit Maine Arts Commission.
