We are currently accepting Arts Program grant applications until March 11th.

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GRANT OPPORTUNITIES

Expand Nature Learning

We're proud to support nonprofit organizations that are expanding access to high-quality nature-learning programs for Maine's youth. Below, find information on determining grant eligibility, preparing your application, and more.

2026 GRANT CYCLE

March 18, 2026 to April 30, 2026

Notification in July

Types of Grants
Preparing to Apply
Characteristics of High-quality Efforts
More About the Nature Learning Strategy
 
Types of Grants
GENERAL OPERATING GRANTS
General operating grants offer unrestricted funds for your organization. If all of your organization’s activities align with one or multiple Environment Program strategies, you may request general operating support. Grants range from $5,000 to $30,000 per 12-month period, and terms may be either one or two years. 
PROJECT SUPPORT GRANTS
Project support grants offer funding for specific activities or programs. If your organization’s work extends beyond our grantmaking strategies, you should request project support. All fiscally sponsored grants are project grants. Grants range from $5,000 to $30,000 per 12-month period, and terms may be either one or two years. 
 
Preparing To Apply
Review Program Details
Explore the three Environment Program strategies to determine which area your organization best aligns with. Review eligibility details and familiarize yourself with the Onion Foundation’s mission and values.
Speak With a Program Officer
Reach out to Rosalind Erwin, Environment Program Officer, to learn more about grant opportunities and ensure alignment with the Environment Program’s key strategies. We strongly encourage fiscally sponsored applicants to review the resources provided on our website about navigating fiscal sponsorship and to discuss their proposal ideas with the program officer before drafting their applications.
Apply During an Open Call Period
When your chosen grant cycle opens, start an application via the Onion Foundation portal. Use this comprehensive resource to preview the application questions and learn how to prepare your proposal before submitting.
View application preview
Start an application
 
Characteristics of high-quality efforts include:
Include high-quality curricula, pedagogy, and learning experiences, preferably linked to the Common Core State Standards and the Next Generation Science Standards, which aim for transformative learning
Offer place-based, experiential learning elements
Result in students gaining an understanding of natural systems
Led by qualified educators
Thoughtfully partner with schools and other networks to ensure continuous and complementary opportunities for learning, experience, and exploration
Focus on one or more group(s) and engage in durable and relevant partnerships to drive and support the participation of the targeted group(s)
Demonstrate a commitment to equity and accessibility
Contact Us
Rosalind Erwin
To inquire about this opportunity, contact:
Rosalind Erwin
SHE/HER/HERS
Environment Program Officer
CONTACT ROSALIND
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Schedule a call with Rosalind
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Sally Struever is sitting outside and smiling at the camera. 
For all other questions, contact:
Sally Struever
SHE/HER/HERS
Grants & Office Administrator
CONTACT SALLY
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