PORTLAND — People’s United Community Foundation, the philanthropic arm of People’s United Bank, recently announced it has awarded a $2,500 grant to Common Good Ventures to increase educational and economic opportunity for Mainers.

Since its founding in 2000, Common Good Ventures has helped more than 175 nonprofit clients increase their capacity to carry out their missions. CGV’s work is funded by foundations, individuals, and corporations, as well as by their nonprofit clients.

“Addressing the multiple factors that prevent Mainers from attaining higher education levels requires identifying and expanding effective programs to serve significantly more youth and adults,” said Drew Watt, Common Good Ventures president. “This grant from the People’s United Community Foundation will help CGV provide technical support to initiatives that have effective programs in place and are ready to grow them.”

“We are fortunate to have so many wonderful nonprofits in our community that care for our most vulnerable population,” said Sam Ladd, officer of People’s United Community Foundation and president of People’s United Bank in Southern Maine. “Common Good Ventures helps to build a stronger, more effective nonprofit sector and we are pleased to be able to support them.”