Expand Nature Learning Grants
Eligibility
Maine K-12 public schools operating nature and outdoor learning programs. Grants provide operational support for existing outdoor education programs.
Program Goals
Maine's Expand Nature Learning grants support established outdoor and nature-based learning programs at Maine schools. Schools with outdoor classrooms, school forests, and nature programs receive operational funding.
Read the GrantApplication and Distribution
Apply through Maine DOE. Monitor maine.gov/doe for the next cycle.
Cycle Notes
Annual competitive cycle. Monitor maine.gov/doe for current deadline.
Grant Award Amount
$5,000-$30,000 per year for operational support of established outdoor learning programs.
Allowable Purchases
Forward Education Products for This Grant
These kits align to the learning outcomes this program funds.
- Climate Action Kit — a beginner-friendly STEM kit combining micro:bit sensors to code solutions for climate change and sustainability
- CHARGE Battery Pack for micro:bit — a compact rechargeable power solution that makes micro:bit projects fully portable
- Smart Solar Energy Kit — build and program a working solar panel to measure real-time power generation and explore renewable energy
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for Expand Nature Learning Grants?
Maine K-12 schools with existing outdoor and nature learning programs.
How much do these grants provide?
$5,000-$30,000 per year for operational support.
Can funds be used for STEM environmental tools?
Yes. Outdoor science tools that support nature learning programs are eligible.
How do Maine schools apply?
Monitor maine.gov/doe for the next application cycle.
How can Forward Education help?
Our Climate Action Kit supports the outdoor environmental science that Expand Nature Learning funds.
Need Help Writing Your Grant Application?
Forward Education works with schools and districts to build strong funding proposals. We can help you connect our tools to your grant requirements.
- Curriculum alignment documents — Maine standards mapped to our kits
- Program quotes and pricing — classroom sets, bundles, and multi-site pricing
- Letters of support — documentation for grant applications
- Project ideas and scope-and-sequence — ready-to-use program outlines
Download the Forward Education Grant Guide
Our grant guide helps educators find the right funding sources and build strong applications for STEM and coding programs.
Get the Grant Guide
