Island Institute’s Community Climate Planning Grants support Maine’s island and coastal communities in strengthening community resilience in the face of climate change. These grants provide flexible funding and hands-on support to help communities plan for and implement locally defined strategies that address the climate-related risks most relevant to them—such as flooding, erosion, infrastructure vulnerability, ecosystem change, and economic disruption.

By supporting projects that reflect community priorities and local knowledge, the program helps build the capacity needed to prepare for, respond to, and adapt to a changing climate. Funding can support a range of activities, from early-stage planning and vulnerability assessments to public engagement, nature-based solutions, and small-scale implementation work.

The Land for Maine’s Future (LMF) program provides funding to acquire land or conservation easements for recreation, public water access, ecological preservation, scenic landscapes, and working forests. LMF is currently accepting inquiries.

The Spark! Clean Energy Program at the Island Institute funds working waterfront energy projects that improve energy efficiency, switch to renewable energy, and/or reduce consumption of fossil fuels. Applicants can receive up to $4,000 per fiscal year (July–June). If you are seeking funding above this amount, contact the Island Institute to have a conversation about other available funding mechanisms or opportunities. 50% match of funding is required for for-profit businesses, but Island Institute may waive this based on financial need or new technology applications. For assistance, contact: The Island Institute, sparkgrants@islandinstitute.org