Grant Guidelines
What We Fund
We only fund projects within the state of Maine.
We support work that promotes a harmonious relationship between people and the natural environment, with focus on:
Climate change mitigation
Ecological restoration
Environmental research and education
Land conservation and stewardship
Water quality protection
Wildlife rehabilitation
Typical grant size: $500 – $50,000
Who we prioritize: Smaller organizations with limited fundraising capacity (board guidance).
Application Instructions & Requirements
Applicants must provide:
A complete application form found on the Apply Now page
The organization’s most recent 501(c)(3) ruling
Deadline
All application materials must be received no later than April 30 for consideration at the Foundation’s annual meeting in May.
Proposal Guidance
Please be as succinct as possible. We admire conservation over elegance.
Limit the project description to one page; include other supporting documents only if essential.
Land acquisition support: include a property appraisal, proposed easements, and supporting maps (if not in the appraisal).
Conservation easement support: include the easement terms and a copy of the appraisal.
Use of Funds
Funds must be used as outlined in the approved proposal. If changes become necessary, amendments must be agreed upon in writing by both the John Sage Foundation and the grantee.
Reporting Requirements
Interim report: due six months into the project.
Final report: Due upon completion of the project.
How Proposals Are Evaluated
The Foundation looks at three key questions:
Does the request meet the mission of the John Sage Foundation?
Will the project benefit the relationship between people and the environment, or reach an underrepresented group?
Will the Foundation’s participation make a substantial difference to the project?
