Keystone Grants
The Keystone program funds grassroots initiatives advancing environmental and racial justice through advocacy, resilience-building, and systems-level change, prioritizing BIPOC, rural, and women-led organizations.
Funder: Elmina B. Sewall Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): February 2027 (Full application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Up to $1,390,000 total available annually; typical awards: $10,000–$60,000/year; multi-year grants (up to 4 years)
Summary: Supports grassroots and community-led efforts advancing environmental and racial justice through advocacy, resilience-building, and systems-level change.
Key Information: Priority for BIPOC-led, rural, women-led, and intersectional organizations; operating, project, and capital requests considered.
Description
The Keystone program, offered by the Elmina B. Sewall Foundation, funds grassroots and community-led initiatives focused on advancing environmental and racial justice as strategies for equitable social change and community well-being. The program emphasizes advocacy, systems-level change, and building community resilience, supporting organizations that are dismantling harmful systems, resourcing local movements, and amplifying marginalized voices. Keystone prioritizes applicants led by Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), rural Mainers, and women, especially those working collaboratively and with a strong commitment to intersectional justice. Funding is available for operating, project, and capital requests.
