Mini-Grants for Outdoor Learning
The 2022-2023 Mini-Grants for Outdoor Learning Application is now open!
MEEA will be accepting applications through October 3rd.
Before you apply MEEA strongly encourages you to review the Frequently Asked Questions and the Example Application to help you strengthen your application!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Can Apply?
Maine Public (Pre-K-12) teachers and schools with preference given to schools with high need (determined using the most recent Maine DOE %Eligible Reduced Lunch data).
Can I Apply Even If I Received Funding Last Year?
Yes! MEEA encourages you to apply even if you received a grant last school year!
Although they will prioritize the highest needs schools and are excited to support educators they have not supported in the past, you are still eligible for support if you have received funding in the past.
What Types of Projects can be Funded?
Funding can be used for any project that advances outdoor learning in your classroom or school in the 2022-23 school year.
Most commonly, this funding is used to buy gear and/or supplies needed to support outdoor learning activities.
This funding can also be used for professional learning to advance your outdoor learning teaching skills, a collaboration with a community partner organization on a nature-based project or experience, or adaptive gear that supports access to outdoor learning in your school.
MEEA wants to meet you where you are and help reduce the barriers you face in getting your students outside learning across all grade levels and content areas.
They strongly encourage collaborative projects with community partner organizations such as a local land trust or environmental education center. Research shows these projects often have the most student impact and long-term sustainability.
What is the Final Report Like?
The final report is short and simple: MEEA asks for photos of your project that they have permission to share with the public and a brief write-up of how you used your funds to advance outdoor learning in your school.
To check out previous recipients of the grant, View Our Programs.
For more information about MEEA, visit www.meeassociation.org.
