ELLSWORTH — The Perloff Family Foundation, in partnership with the Maine Community Foundation, is launching a new grant program focused on science technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

STEM4ME aims to increase the opportunities for student-driven STEM projects at publicly funded Maine high schools and academies.

Grants of up to $5,000 will be made available to small teams of students, mentored by a STEM-experienced educator, that result in creative real-world solutions to problems in areas such as renewable energy, ecology, robotics and sustainable food production.

Preference will be given to two-year projects that involve substantial innovation, are closely aligned with the needs of Maine businesses and are linked to existing programs and initiatives at Maine colleges and universities.

Over the past 12 years, David and Sandy Perloff have provided more than $200,000 in STEM-related grants for K-12 programs throughout Maine. Through a competitive grant process, these programs are intended to develop and reinforce student interest in science and mathematics, especially at Maine’s smaller rural schools which are often lacking in such opportunities.

Educators interested in applying for a STEM4ME grant must submit a one-page letter of interest describing their project concept no later than Monday, April 30. Successful candidates will be asked to submit a formal application. For information on where and how to submit letters of interest, visit www.fastgrants.org/stem.

A statewide organization with offices in Ellsworth and Portland, the Maine Community Foundation partners with donors and nonprofits to strengthen Maine communities. For more information, visit www.mainecf.org or call 1-877-700-6800.