Grants are available to support art programs across all of Maine’s 16 counties in 2027 and 2028. For artists to be eligible to apply for the grant funding, they need to become certified as Creative Aging Maine Teaching Artists by completing the two trainings offered in fall 2026 or fall 2027 (note: artists who have already taken the Lifetime Arts training and hold a current certification will not need to repeat it and only need to complete the MCOA training). We encourage all Maine Creates teaching artists and applicants, who want to work with older adults to apply.

Funding for the grants come from a two-year grant from The National Assembly of State Art Agencies (NASAA) and the E.A. Michelson Philanthropy.

Timeline:

• October/November 2026: Complete both Lifetime Arts and MCOA trainings
• December 2026: Application for grants open
• March 2026: Grants awarded for art classes in 2026
• Teaching Artists coordinate with local Community Host Site to offer art classes.