The Lewiston-Auburn Grants program, supported by the Elmina B. Sewall Foundation in partnership with other funders, is dedicated to improving community well-being and environmental health in the Lewiston and Auburn (L-A) region of Maine. Following the conclusion of a 3-year pilot phase (2022–2024), the program has transitioned into a long-term, community-led initiative built on a systems approach. This approach prioritizes equity, particularly through leadership by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) and youth, and emphasizes collaboration and sustainable capacity building among local organizations.
The program allocates a total of $1,710,000 in 2025 to support collective work across four priority areas: Equitable Municipal Systems, Workforce Access and Economic Development, Community Health, Wellness and Food Systems, and Healthy, Affordable Housing. Participating organizations are expected to engage in a facilitated, community-based collaboration process that determines grant allocation through a series of virtual convenings held by thematic area. These convenings are designed to foster transparency, reduce competition, and encourage shared decision-making.
Funding structures for 2025 include multi-year awards spanning two to three years, as well as limited one-year grants for emergent projects. While normal operating grants are approximately $10,000 per year per organization, larger awards are possible for collaborative efforts involving multiple nonprofit partners. Final grant amounts are determined during the facilitated sessions held in January and February 2025.
Participation in these sessions is a key requirement for applicants. New applicants must first consult with Lauress Lawrence at the Sewall Foundation to confirm eligibility and receive access to the appropriate convening session. Organizations with current or prior grants, as well as those not yet funded, are encouraged to attend and contribute to discussions in their relevant focus areas.
The deadline for submitting grant applications was February 13, 2025, with decisions expected by the end of April 2025. Although there is no fixed schedule for future rounds, the program has demonstrated an annual pattern, suggesting likely recurrence. Interested organizations should monitor the Sewall Foundation’s website or connect with the program contact for updates on future application timelines.
For inquiries, applicants can reach out to Lauress Lawrence via email at LLawrence@sewallfoundation.org. The full 2025 Fact Sheet is available online and provides comprehensive details about the program’s background, priorities, and process.
Engage early with L-A collaborative; prioritize BIPOC/youth leadership; align with systemic and collective change.
