June 8, 2022
World Oceans Day 2022
Revitalization: Collective Action for the Ocean
On this World Oceans Day, we’re embracing the theme of Revitalization: Collective Action for the Ocean. We, along with our friends at Luke's Lobster, are spotlighting organizations—both ones we admire and ones we've partnered with—that are taking action for the ocean.
April 27, 2022
Federal Funds Could Mean More Sustainable Ferries
Maine State Ferry System has the potential to Receive Federal Infrastructure Bill Funding
Last fall, Congress passed the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The bill includes more than 1 billion dollars for ferries. For Maine, with 15 year-round, unbridged island communities, six of whom are served by the state ferry service, this program should make us pay attention. Access to these funds would help ensure the affordability and sustainability of these vital vessels.
April 5, 2022
Partnering for Climate Solutions
New Grant to Advance Climate Planning for Three Island Communities
The Island Institute was recently awarded a contract through the Governor’s Office of Policy, Innovation and the Future (GOPIF) newly formed regional climate capacity initiative to support the islands of Monhegan, Chebeague, and Long in community-centered climate visioning processes. This exciting opportunity is the most recent example of our ongoing partnership with the state of Maine that aims to maximize local understanding, support, and ownership of climate action work plans.
April 1, 2022
Community, climate, and kelp
Our take on the Maine Aquaculture Roadmap and a sustainable future for our coast
Imagine it’s 2032. “Maine seafood” conjures up mouth-watering thoughts of lobster, oysters, and kelp. Waterways are cleaner, working waterfronts bustle with a diverse array of thriving businesses, and communities reap…
March 31, 2022
Connecting communities and boosting local capacity
A Maine Broadband Coalition strategy to bring internet to all Mainers
The Island Institute has long recognized the power of statewide networks to support community development work in Maine’s small, rural, and resource constrained communities. In support of of our work…
March 4, 2022
Maine broadband and bridging two authorities
How ConnectMaine and the new Maine Connectivity Authority are working together to close Maine’s digital divide
Wait a minute—there are two broadband authorities in Maine? Yes! And here's how they’re working together to achieve high-speed internet access for all Mainers.
January 31, 2022
Legislative Update: Winter 2022
Funding opportunities and priorities for the months ahead
As 2022 begins, much of our policy focus has shifted from making a case for why public funding is needed to supporting projects and communities in applying for the numerous…
January 6, 2022
A Few of Our Favorite Things: Wellness & Self-Care in the New Year
As we enter a new year, we know that many people are making resolutions around their personal health and well-being for the months ahead. So, in this edition of “Our…
December 22, 2021
A Few of Our Favorite Things:
Empowering Youth through STEM
Today’s youth and our future generations play a huge role in the viability and sustainability of our communities—both here on the coast of Maine and beyond. In our next installment…
December 16, 2021
A Few of Our Favorite Things: Businesses Doing Better
In our next installment of “A Few of Our Favorite Things” with Luke’s Lobster, we’re featuring some wonderful for-profit businesses in Maine that are doing good things for our coast and our…
