FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 18th, 2026
Ecomaine Opens eco-Impact Grant Applications for Maine Schools
PORTLAND, Maine (August 18th, 2026) – ecomaine is now accepting applications for its 2027 eco-Impact Grants program, which provides project-specific funding to schools and educational organizations working to reduce waste through recycling, reuse, composting, and other waste diversion strategies.
Through the program, ecomaine will award up to $25,000 in total grant funding this cycle, with individual awards of up to $7,500 per project. The grants are open to schools and educational organizations serving students in ecomaine communities. The funding is intended to support new or expanding efforts that engage students directly in sustainability work.
“It’s inspiring to see how big an impact these projects can have on students and on the whole school community,” said Lucy Sullivan, Director of Communications and Public Relations. “The waste diversion impact is important – but so is the confidence they build. By taking part in these projects, kids realize that when they see a problem, they’re not stuck on the sidelines. They have the power to be part of the solution.”
Past participants in the program (formerly known as School Waste Diversion Grants), have undertaken a wide variety of projects, including launching school-wide composting programs, replacing single-use cafeteria ware with reusable alternatives, expanding recycling access, and developing student-led education campaigns. Since the program’s launch more than ten years ago, these grants have given students of all ages opportunities to participate directly in solving their schools’ sustainability challenges.
Applications for 2026-2027 eco-Impact Grants are due by 11:59pm on Tuesday, October 20th, 2026. Full program details, eligibility requirements, and the application form are available at ecomaine.org/grants.
About ecomaine
ecomaine is Maine’s leader in sustainable waste management, serving more than 70 communities with recycling, waste-to-energy, and landfill operations. Through education and innovation, ecomaine is committed to reducing waste and increasing resource recovery to create a cleaner, more sustainable future.
