December 8, 2020
A Few of Our Favorite Things: Gifts inspired by the sea
As part of our new collaborative series with Luke's Lobster, we're continuing to highlight some of our favorite things about Maine. Maine's scenic coastline, harbors, and waters serve as a constant source of inspiration for artists, visitors, local entrepreneurs, and residents alike. This week, we're thinking about a few small businesses who are using this inspiration to create unique and innovative products that are tied to the sea and this beautiful place we call home. With the holidays just around the corner, we invite you to check them out and…
December 4, 2020
Maine Won’t Wait: Gearing up to implement Maine’s climate action plan
Bold and durable plan will accelerate climate-related efforts along the coast and across the state
While much of coastal Maine struggled with power outages and flooding as a powerful early winter storm unleashed strong winds and heavy rain—all on top of a global pandemic—leaders of…
December 2, 2020
How communities are helping to close the digital divide in Maine
Through a community-driven process, we can bring affordable, equitable, and reliable high-speed internet access to everyone in Maine
The Island Institute’s mission and values are strongly rooted in the communities we serve. It is the priorities of these communities that power our work. This is why we believe…
December 1, 2020
A Few of Our Favorite Things: Giving Tuesday
In honor of the holiday season and in the spirit of giving, we’re collaborating with our friends at Luke’s Lobster on "A Few of Our Favorite Things," a series highlighting…
November 23, 2020
Commercial Currents: Four Ways to Find Community this Winter
It seems like there is a general unease as we head into another Maine winter. The days are getting colder and shorter, COVID cases are starting to rise again. Like…
November 13, 2020
Rapid COVID-19 testing available for island communities
State of Maine and partners work to ensure islands have adequate access to coronavirus testing
Since March, Maine’s island communities have faced a variety of logistical and other unique challenges in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. But thanks to a new state effort to distribute…
October 30, 2020
A Personal Reflection on Learning to Face Race
Adapted from the opening remarks at the 2020 Island Teachers Conference
Twenty-five years ago, I made a conscious choice to avoid the issue of race. And because I am a white woman, living in a majority white community, I had the…
October 26, 2020
Commercial Currents: Getting Your Small Business Ready for Online Marketing this Holiday Season
It might feel early, but right now is a great time to lay the groundwork for the holidays. Here’s how to make your online marketing painless but profitable so you…
September 11, 2020
Spark! grant helps communities tackle energy efficiency projects
During the summer of 2019, I took the Casco Bay Lines ferry to Cliff Island. Upon arrival, I noticed small trenches dug up on the sides of roads and properties,…
August 28, 2020
If something is important to you, you should care for it
If something is important to you, you should care for it.
As I sit down to write about the Island Institute and the Maine Island Trail Association, this is the statement that comes to mind. In many ways, this idea embodies both organizations and Maine’s coast more broadly.
