“Launching Tomorrow’s Game” Capital Campaign
Maine Golf is embarking on a $2.5M capital campaign to build a new not-for-profit Golf Learning Center in Freeport that aims to break down the barriers to golf for Maine youth and families.
By creating access and serving as the hub for junior golf programming across the state, the Maine Golf Learning Center will generate myriad opportunities for kids of all backgrounds to learn and play the game while benefiting from its many life lessons.
The Campaign
Our Vision
“LAUNCHING TOMORROW’S GAME”
We believe that people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities should be able to enjoy and benefit from the great game of golf. That’s why we are building a new Golf Learning Center, based in the vibrant community of Freeport, that aims to provide statewide golf access, education, and instruction, with a focus on growing junior golf and enriching the lives of Maine youth and families.
The Challenge
There are many barriers to golf, particularly for juniors and families. These include:
- High cost of equipment, instruction, and tee times
- Lack of access to courses, instruction, and programming
- Golf’s reputation as an “elitist” sport that is unwelcoming to beginners
Our Solution
To break down these barriers, the new Golf Learning Center will be geared specifically toward juniors and will offer:
- Low- to no-cost equipment programs and junior tee times for just $5 through Youth on Course
- An inviting, family-friendly clubhouse featuring a full-service pro shop, snack bar, classroom, and high-tech indoor golf simulators for year-round play and instruction
- State-of-the-art Toptracer driving range with 20 hitting bays
- A revamped 9-hole golf course and a new par 3 “short course” providing a fun challenge for all
- Quality programs such as the First Tee, PGA Jr. League, and LPGA*USGA Girls Golf to get as many kids playing golf as possible, both at Freeport and across the state

Why Maine Golf?
Maine Golf has led the growth of golf in the Pine Tree State for more than 100 years as a non-profit association of over 120 clubs and 74,000+ amateur golfers. Our sole mission is to “strengthen today’s game, launch tomorrow’s, and lead the collective effort to grow golf in Maine.”
Why Now?
Golf has grown immensely in recent years, marked by a 78% increase in adult rounds played since 2019. As a result, junior golf rounds have decreased by 50% due to the increased demand for full-priced adult tee times.
The future of golf in Maine depends on growing the game at all levels, but most importantly at the junior golf level.

Cost and Timing
The total project cost for the purchase of the land and all improvements is approximately $2.5 million. Construction is slated to begin in spring 2025.
How Can You Help?
Make a gift! We are fundraising for the entire $2.5 million cost of the project, so gifts of any amount will make a big difference in supporting our vision for this game-changing facility.

Ways to Make a Gift
- Make a gift online (one-time or recurring)
- Make a gift of stock
- Make a qualified charitable distribution from your IRA. If you haven’t satisfied your required minimum distribution from your IRA, did you know you can gift part or all of it by doing a qualified charitable distribution? It’s a great way to support our cause and reduce the tax liability you’d incur.
- Mail us a check to the following address: Maine Golf, 2 Old County Road Ext., Freeport, ME 04032
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to Brian Bickford with any questions you may have about making a donation to this great cause. Send an email to brian@mainegolf.org.
Naming Opportunities
The following naming opportunities are available at the Maine Golf Learning Center to recognize our lead supporters. For more information, contact Executive Director Brian Bickford at brian@mainegolf.org.
Learning Center Naming Opportunity | Gift Amount | Status |
---|---|---|
The Golf Learning Center | $1,000,000 | Available |
Clubhouse | $500,000 | Available |
Driving Range | $250,000 | Available |
Par 3 “Short Course” | $250,000 | Available |
Pro Shop | $100,000 | Available |
Classroom | $100,000 | Available |
Short Game Area | $100,000 | Available |
Patio Area | $100,000 | Available |
Holes #1 – #9 | $50,000 | Available |
Donor Wall Giving Levels
We will recognize the generosity of our donors at the following levels on a permanent donor wall at the Maine Golf Learning Center:
Donor Levels | Amount |
---|---|
Leaders | $500,000+ |
Legends | $250,000+ |
Champions | $100,000+ |
Sponsors | $50,000+ |
Patrons | $25,000+ |
Supporters | $10,000+ |
Friends | $1,000+ |
You Can Make A Difference
To help us build the next generation of golfers and community leaders here in Maine, we are seeking the support of the entire Maine Golf community — from avid and casual golfers, to parents and family members of junior golfers, to local Maine businesses and charitable organizations. Every dollar counts!
Your tax-deductible contribution will ensure that thousands of young Mainers can learn and enjoy this great game for generations to come. Join us in “Launching Tomorrow’s Game” today!
