The Maine Arts Commission has launched Make it Maine, a new community crowdfunding initiative developed in partnership with Patronicity, a national civic crowdfunding platform, according to the Commission, in a news release.

"The program empowers residents, artists, and community organizations to bring creative, community-centered projects to life by raising funds locally and engaging their communities directly," said the Commission.

Make it Maine supports a wide range of arts and placemaking projects, from public art installations and cultural events to creative activations of shared public spaces. Designed to strengthen community connection and local pride, the program welcomes locally led ideas that enhance public places and contribute to vibrant, welcoming communities across Maine.

“Make it Maine puts the power of placemaking directly into the hands of communities,” said Danielle Moriarty, Program Director at the Maine Arts Commission. “This program isn’t just about funding projects—it’s about building momentum, encouraging collaboration, and giving people a meaningful way to invest in the places they care about.”

Through Make it Maine, individuals and organizations with an arts or placemaking idea can launch a crowdfunding campaign using a user-friendly, web-based platform. Project creators receive guidance to plan and promote their campaigns, engage supporters, and raise funds to bring their ideas to fruition. Once a campaign concludes, funds are disbursed directly to the project creator so work can move forward in the community.

Those interested are encouraged to learn more at an upcoming information session on February 11, at 1 p.m., hosted by Patronicity and the Maine Arts Commission. The session will provide an overview of the program, eligibility requirements, and guidance on launching a successful campaign. Registration details are available here.

Crowdfunding allows residents to invest in projects they value by contributing small amounts toward shared goals, according to the news release.

"By engaging individuals, businesses, and organizations, Make it Maine fosters a sense of ownership and connection while supporting projects that activate public spaces, stimulate the creative economy, and encourage local collaboration and investment," said the Commission. "The platform accommodates both online and offline donations, making participation accessible to a wide range of supporters."

Eligible projects must be located in Maine and create, enhance, or activate public spaces that are free, open, and accessible to all. Projects may include public art such as murals, temporary or pop-up installations, cultural events, streetscape improvements, community markets or gardens, performing arts spaces, and winter placemaking initiatives. All projects are expected to prioritize accessibility and comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Make it Maine does not support general operating expenses, planning-only activities, partisan or religious projects, or initiatives that primarily promote a single for-profit entity. Projects must directly serve Maine communities and align with the program’s commitment to equity, inclusion, and public benefit.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. To learn more about Make it Maine, eligibility requirements, and how to start a campaign, visit the Maine Arts Commission website.

The Maine Arts Commission fosters and encourages public interest and participation in the cultural heritage and artistic expression in our state. We pursue our mission through partnerships and collaborations, initiatives, advocacy, and grants for organizations, individual artists, communities, and schools throughout Maine.