up to $2,000
for smaller humanities programs and projects that have broad public outreach
Mini Grants distribute funding to humanities programs and projects undertaken by non-profit organizations and communities all across Maine. Organizations serving and/or led by members of communities traditionally under-resourced in the humanities are encouraged to apply.
We evaluate proposals on their strength and clarity in the following areas:
- Humanities content
- Project goals and impact
- Project design and budget
- Community outreach and engagement
- Alignment with Maine Humanities priorities as listed in our Grant Guidelines
MAJOR GRANT Eligibility
- Organizations with 501c3 status, government organizations (such as a federally recognized Indian Tribal governments or organizations or state/local/city governments), churches, or education organizations (such as schools or school districts, or public or private institutions of higher education) are eligible to apply without fiscal sponsorship.
- If your organization is NOT a 501c3, or equivalent (listed above) you will need a FISCAL SPONSOR for your project. The National Council of Nonprofits has a helpful resource sheet on fiscal sponsorship.
- If your organization has received a MHC project grant (Major, Mini, or Arts & Humanities Grants), you are not eligible to apply again either in the same or the following calendar year. For example, an organization awarded a grant (at any point) in 2025 would not be eligible to apply for ANY MHC grants until January 2027.
Common Questions
What does it mean to have the humanities at the heart of your project?
What does strong community engagement look like?
What are matching funds?
What is a fiscal sponsor?
What is a topic expert?
What is a broad and diverse audience?
When can my project start?
Are there character limits in applications?
CONTACT
the Grants Team
Applicants are strongly encouraged to connect with a member of the Maine Humanities Grants Team before applying.
- If you have never applied for a Maine Humanities Grant or aren’t familiar with the grant application process, we would love to work with you in order to make the process as easy as possible.
Accepting Applications
March 17, 2026 – April 21, 2026
August 11, 2026 – September 15, 2026
Grant applications open and close at noon on the above dates.