We are currently accepting applications through February 11th for Environment Program grants to eliminate barriers to the outdoors.

Onion Foundation Logo
A group of backpackers follow a narrow trail up at the top of an open peak. The clouds are low in the sky above them, and there is a glorious view.
A female piano teacher and young female student wearing masks sitting at a piano pointing to a music score.

(Left) Maine Appalachian Trail Club Ridge Runners Program

(Right) Piano Lesson at Bay Chamber Concerts

Photo credit: Tara Rice

For an Equitable and Healthy Maine

We’re working to ensure that everyone from every corner of the state can access meaningful experiences in the arts and the natural world.

Together We Are Strong
The Onion Foundation stands in solidarity with our Somali neighbors and deplores the offensive and divisive language being used to threaten and diminish them. These words undermine the democratic principles and immigration practices that have allowed the United States to flourish, to treat its residents with dignity, and to offer safe haven to those who need it. These words deliberately seek to mislead the public, putting our neighbors at risk, creating fear and mistrust, and impairing the well-being and security of our communities. Immigrants Belong, Together We Are Strong!
Cultivate
We support organizations that are expanding our collective capacity for creativity and access to the outdoors.
A woman playing an upright acoustic bass standing in front of a large hemlock tree in the woods looking out at the ocean.
Bassist Alyson Ciechomski at Vigorous Tenderness 2023 Summer Solstice
Photo credit: Kal Sugatski
Our Impact Areas
 THE ENVIRONMENT
Meaningful experiences with nature lead to a deeper understanding of our environment and a stronger desire to protect it for our shared future.
A young boy holding a butterfly net in his left hand facing away from us and looking down towards the ground.
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 THE ARTS
Creative expression has the power to connect people to each other, encourage critical thinking and dialogue, and advance a just society.
Closeup of a pair of female arms working on a small clay formation spinning on a potter's wheel. The right hand is dipping into a plastic jar of water while the left hand is shaping the clay.
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Who We Fund
The Maine organizations that foster opportunities for artistic expression and connection to the outdoors are critical to sustaining the vibrancy of the state and its people. We’re proud to have supported — and to continue to support — organizations like these across all 16 counties.
PAST GRANTEES
A scene from a theater production with seven actors in various seated positions surrounding a female actress standing with her hands on her thighs.
Photo credit: Mad Horse Theater Company
Featured Stories
A wooden sign featuring trail-marking signs next to an outdoor trail
How Portland Trails Expands Equitable Access to the City’s Natural Network
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A wooden sign featuring trail-marking signs next to an outdoor trail
How Portland Trails Expands Equitable Access to the City’s Natural Network
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A group of volunteers celebrate their work at Horns Pond
Volunteer Series, Part Four: How To Recruit, Engage, and Partner With Community Volunteers
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Three volunteers sit in a raft to survey Big Lake
The Power of Big Lake — and the People Who Protect It
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Reach out to learn more about our mission and grant opportunities.
Contact Us