The Nature-Based Education Grants program, offered by the Elmina B. Sewall Foundation, supports efforts to expand equitable access to outdoor experiences and environmental education across Maine. The foundation recognizes that systemic inequities, including those rooted in racism and social barriers, limit access to nature-based learning opportunities. This grant program funds collaborative initiatives and direct programming that elevate diverse voices, strengthen networks, influence policy, and create transformational impact in the field of nature-based education.

The program focuses on two funding areas: Systems Level Funding and Direct Programming Funding. Systems Level Funding supports field-building, movement-building, data collection, evaluation, advocacy, and policy initiatives that advance nature-based education. Direct Programming Funding prioritizes organizations led by historically underrepresented groups and aims to expand equitable opportunities for learning in nature. These grants provide general operating support to programs that remove barriers to outdoor education and conservation involvement.

For 2025, the Sewall Foundation has allocated $1,305,000 in available funding. Systems Level Funding grants may be awarded for up to $200,000, while Direct Programming grants will generally range from $10,000 to $50,000, with multi-year funding requests considered.

Applications are due by February 13, 2025, at 5:00 PM, with grant decisions announced by the end of April 2025. First-time applicants are encouraged to review the Sewall Grant Application Guide and follow the Creating an Account Guide for step-by-step application instructions. Applications must be submitted online, and returning applicants can resume in-progress applications through the Sewall Foundation Grant Portal.

For more information, applicants can contact Amie Hutchison, Community Partner, or email info@sewallfoundation.org.