Volunteer Fire Capacity Program
The Volunteer Fire Capacity Program funds rural Maine fire departments to improve wildfire prevention, training, and equipment, focusing on communities of 10,000 or fewer residents.
Funder: Maine Department of Agriculture Conservation and Forestry
Due Dates (Anticipated): November 2026 (Full application) | December 2026 (Full application) | March 2027 (SAM/Assurances) | July 2027 (Receipts/Reimbursement)
Funding Amounts: Up to $5,000 per applicant (50/50 match required); no single item over $9,999; annual program.
Summary: Supports rural Maine fire departments with funding for wildfire prevention, training, and equipment, requiring local matching funds.
Key Information: This is a reimbursement grant; only departments serving populations ≤10,000 (or those protecting such areas) are eligible.
Description
The Volunteer Fire Capacity (VFC) Program, administered by the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, provides federal financial assistance to rural fire departments in Maine. The program aims to help organize, train, and equip fire departments in communities with populations of 10,000 or less to prevent and suppress wildfires. Funding is available for wildland fire equipment, personal protective equipment, communication tools, and training. The grant operates on a 50/50 matching basis, with a maximum award of $5,000 per applicant per year. The program is managed in partnership with the Maine Forest Service and the Maine Fire Chiefs Association Forestry Committee.
