Compass Workforce Grant

The Compass Workforce Grant, provided by the Finance Authority of Maine, offers financial support to individuals pursuing a certificate or credential that leads to a career. The program is designed to help cover workforce expenses, including technical and vocational training, community college classes, online courses, apprenticeships, internships, materials, supplies, travel, and lodging.

To qualify, applicants must meet specific residency or community connection criteria. Eligible individuals include young adults aged 15 to 30 living on Deer Isle-Stonington or one of Maine’s year-round, unbridged islands. Those who have lived or worked full-time in these areas for at least a year, possess a strong family or community connection to these locations, or attended an island school or Deer Isle-Stonington are also eligible to apply.

The application process requires submitting personal details, program and cost information, a personal statement about career goals, and participating in an interview. While applicants should complete the FAFSA or state financial aid applications to assess overall aid options, this specific grant is managed through the Island Institute. See the official page for current dates.