Maine Cancer Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing cancer incidence and mortality rates specifically in the state of Maine. The Foundation raises funds and invests 100% of the proceeds into programs that benefit Maine residents. The Foundation focuses on fostering prevention practices, increasing cancer screening rates, and improving patient outcomes. In particular, the Foundation supports efforts that ensure all Mainers have access to high-quality cancer care, with an emphasis on reducing health disparities linked to social and economic disadvantages.

The purpose of the 2025 Cancer Prevention grant program is to fund evidence-based interventions aimed at reducing cancer risk for Maine residents. Applicants are encouraged to propose projects that target key prevention areas, including alcohol use, arsenic exposure, HPV vaccinations, obesity prevention, radon exposure, sun safety, and tobacco use prevention and treatment. Proposals must demonstrate the use of established evidence-based strategies and include clear data to support proposed methods.

The grant supports projects that focus on implementing policy, systems, and environmental (PSE) changes, demonstrate measurable results, promote collaboration among Maine organizations, and pilot innovative ideas based on established best practices. Proposals should prioritize reaching underserved geographic areas of Maine and populations at heightened cancer risk, such as uninsured individuals, rural communities, racial and ethnic minorities, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charitable organizations, educational institutions, government entities, and other public nonprofit entities such as health departments or universities. Ineligible uses include direct financial assistance to individuals, business investments or loans, programs that do not directly benefit Maine residents, and contributions to capital campaigns or endowments.

The application process requires online submission by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 30, 2025. Applicants are encouraged to contact Maine Cancer Foundation before submission to confirm eligibility and discuss project ideas. Draft applications can also be submitted for review and feedback. All applications are evaluated by a grant review committee, and applicants may be asked for additional information during the review process.

The grant offers awards up to $40,000 per year for up to two years, with a maximum total request of $80,000. Awards will be announced in August 2025, and funds are distributed upon receipt of a signed contract. Awardees must submit progress reports to Maine Cancer Foundation during the grant period. Contact information for assistance is provided for Tricia Jamiol, Program Coordinator, at tricia@mainecancer.org.