The Maine Arts Commission's mission is to support artists, arts organizations, educators, policy makers, and community developers in advancing the arts in Maine. For over 50 years, the Commission has encouraged public interest and participation in the state's cultural heritage and programs, worked to expand Maine's cultural resources, and has promoted freedom of artistic expression to enhance the well-being of the arts across the state, aiming to meet the needs and aspirations of individuals in all regions.
The Ticket to Ride grant program offers financial assistance to Maine schools to cover travel costs for visits to arts-based venues and events, contributing to a comprehensive curriculum. This initiative targets trips that provide high-level arts experiences otherwise inaccessible due to distance. The primary objectives for these excursions include augmenting specific curricula, supporting student learning, and alignment with the Maine Learning Results Visual and/or Performing Arts standards. Applications are accepted year-round, with funding available about a month post-submission. Schools are eligible to apply multiple times within a year for different events, student groups, or if they have not exceeded their eligible funding amount.