Best Bennington County Grants for Nonprofits in Vermont

The Long Island Sound Futures Fund (LISFF) is offering approximately $12 million in grants to enhance the health and living resources of Long Island Sound. Managed by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) in collaboration with the U.S. EPA and the Long Island Sound Study (LISS), this initiative seeks innovative proposals to support environmental restoration efforts, leveraging major funding from various agencies and foundations.

The TD Bank Community Sponsorships Program, supported by the TD Charitable Foundation, provides funding for events and activities that positively impact communities from Maine to Florida. This initiative aims to enhance community awareness and foster partnerships among diverse groups, promoting economic development, cultural enrichment, and social responsibility. Organizations can apply for funding to support community-oriented programs, with applications reviewed quarterly. It's essential to submit applications at least 90 days before the event deadlines.

The Charles R. Wood Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations in the Lake George Region, focusing on children, healthcare, and the arts. Established in 1978, the foundation aims to enhance the quality of life for children and families, improve local healthcare access, and promote the arts. Organizations can apply for various types of grants year-round, with eligibility primarily for 501(c)(3) public charities. The Foundation prioritizes innovative projects that meet community needs.

The Opportunity Fund for Southshire Youth, established by the Vermont Community Foundation, aims to empower teenagers in several communities through grants for innovative programs. Set to begin in 2025, the fund will support youth-led events and initiatives that foster connection and belonging. Grant amounts range from $500 to $10,000, encouraging grassroots organizations and first-time applicants to apply. This initiative addresses the needs of youth facing hardships and promotes inclusive opportunities.

The Lake Champlain Basin Program offers Educator Mini-grants to support educators in acquiring materials for teaching about Lake Champlain Watershed issues. These grants enhance classroom learning and are available to educators within the Basin who have met specific eligibility criteria. Funds can be used for educational resources that last beyond one academic year. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, so early submission is encouraged to secure funding.

The Watershed Association Professional Development Mini-Grants support staff and volunteers of watershed organizations in the Lake Champlain Basin. These grants cover costs for professional development activities aimed at enhancing water quality and organizational capacity. Eligible organizations include 501c3 nonprofits focused on water stewardship. Preference is given to those with previous LCBP contracts exceeding $4,000. Applications are accepted monthly, with awards announced shortly after deadlines.

The South Lake Champlain Fund, established by the Vermont Community Foundation, supports initiatives that enhance the environmental health and cultural heritage of the southern Lake Champlain area. This includes educational projects for youth, innovative research, and community engagement efforts. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $7,500, with applications welcomed from tax-exempt organizations in Vermont. The fund encourages projects involving local experts and public dissemination of findings to foster community involvement.

The Deerfield River Enhancement Fund Grant, managed by the Vermont Community Foundation, supports environmental projects within the Deerfield River Basin. With a funding pool of approximately $14,000, eligible applicants include nonprofits and educational institutions in Vermont and Massachusetts. Projects can range from educational workshops to public access improvements, fostering community engagement and sustainability. The next grant cycle opens in November 2026, offering a valuable opportunity for organizations focused on preserving the watershed.

The Nonprofit Resource Training Grant offers up to $1,000 for tax-exempt organizations to send employees to essential training and conferences. This initiative supports community-based groups that serve low- to moderate-income populations and align with The Ready Commitment. By enhancing employee skills, the grant aims to strengthen nonprofits and their impact in the community, ensuring they provide valuable services effectively.

The Claremont Savings Bank Foundation Grant supports local non-profits enhancing community quality of life and economic vitality. Since 2003, it has awarded over $2.7 million in grants ranging from $500 to $5,000. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) approved and serve the Bank's CRA area, with a focus on civic, arts, social services, health, and affordable housing. The Foundation prioritizes community-impact projects, while excluding individuals, political, or religious organizations.

The Brinker International Charitable Giving Program focuses on giving back to communities through support for kids, hunger, and education. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501c(3) non-profits and submit requests at least six weeks prior to events. The program does not support individuals, political or religious organizations, or explicit discrimination policies. Funding is provided through monetary donations or in-kind contributions like dining certificates.

The Housing for Everyone Grant Competition, part of the 2026 Initiative, aims to support eviction prevention in low-to moderate-income communities. This 20th annual initiative recognizes the destabilizing impact of eviction and displacement on families, which leads to job loss, school disruptions, and health issues. By funding innovative organizations, the competition seeks to provide stability for renters, enabling them to stay in their homes and communities.

The Kelsey Trust, established in 1988, collaborates with the Vermont Community Foundation to provide grants focused on supporting children, families, and basic human needs in the Lake Champlain Basin. With a yearly budget of approximately $200,000, grants typically range from $5,000 to $10,000. Organizations serving the local community must be tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) or represented by a fiscal sponsor. The Trust emphasizes non-discrimination and prioritizes local organizations.

The Stratton Foundation Grant aims to improve the health and welfare of children and families in southern Vermont by funding sustainable programs that address poverty challenges. It focuses on four key areas: food and hunger, health and dental care, basic necessities, and education. Grants are awarded to 501(c)(3) organizations serving vulnerable communities, with no fixed amounts but varying reporting requirements based on the grant size. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that demonstrate sustainability and effective management.

The TD Charitable Foundation has been dedicated to improving community quality of life since 2002, contributing over $254 million to non-profit organizations. They fund initiatives aligned with their corporate citizenship goals, focusing on Better Health, Connected Communities, Financial Security, and Vibrant Planet. Special consideration is given to programs that support inclusivity for diverse and historically underserved communities. Their commitment to enhancing lives through targeted grants reflects their core values and social responsibility.

The Harold Grinspoon Foundation offers the Rekindle Shabbat Grant, aimed at fostering community through Shabbat gatherings. This grant supports events that bring people together, whether in-person or remotely, to celebrate Shabbat with meaningful rituals. Eligible participants include residents of Western Massachusetts and Southern Vermont. Grants reimburse up to $18 per individual for meals, encouraging diverse groups to gather and connect over shared traditions. Applications must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the event.

The Harold Grinspoon Foundation offers Professional Development Grants aimed at enhancing local Jewish schools and organizations. These grants support Jewish educators and employees in acquiring new skills and knowledge to improve their organizations. Eligible programs include training in outreach, fundraising, and marketing, hosted by approved Jewish institutions. HGF covers up to 50% of program costs, up to $2,500 annually, emphasizing competitive funding for qualified applicants.

The Harold Grinspoon Foundation offers Jewish Community Grants aimed at enriching Jewish life in Western Massachusetts and Southern Vermont. These grants support innovative and engaging programs that connect under-engaged individuals and families to the Jewish community. Applications are competitive, with individuals eligible for up to $2,500 and organizations for up to $7,500. Collaborative proposals are encouraged to maximize resources and reach a diverse audience, fostering community engagement and meaningful experiences.

The Bender Family Foundation Grant supports arts, culture, education, history, and environment initiatives in New York's Capital Region. Established in 1997, it prioritizes projects within Albany County and offers funding ranging from $5,000 to $15,000. Nonprofit organizations, including those under fiscal sponsorship, are eligible to apply. However, grants are not available for individuals or annual fund drives, ensuring support is directed toward impactful community projects.

The Harold Grinspoon Foundation (HGF) offers Family Education Grants to support Jewish organizations in creating engaging educational programs for families. Grants can cover up to 70% of program costs, with a maximum of $10,000 available. Eligible organizations must serve the Jewish community in Western Massachusetts or Southern Vermont and provide innovative Jewish education experiences. The goal is to foster community engagement and enrich family connections to Jewish life through diverse programming.

The Price Chopper’s Golub Foundation has been committed to community support for over 85 years, offering funding and in-kind donations to various organizations. They prioritize 501(c)(3) non-profits that enhance cultural and economic vitality, and provide resources for local events, youth sports, and cultural initiatives. Applications for support are encouraged from organizations that align with their values, emphasizing community improvement and collaboration. For assistance, contact local stores for resources like ticket printing and promotional support.

The Lithia 4Kids Program, initiated by Lithia Motors, aims to enhance youth development through strategic partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Since 1946, Lithia has prioritized community enrichment, focusing on supporting 501(c)3 certified nonprofits dedicated to improving the lives of children and families. With over 200 locations nationwide, Lithia empowers its employees to engage meaningfully in local initiatives, fostering confident youth ready to face future challenges. Volunteering is a core value, creating a collaborative environment for positive impact.

The Nellie Mae Event Sponsorship Fund supports one-time events that promote education justice and racial equity in New England. Organizations targeting local communities, with annual budgets under $2 million, can apply for funding for events scheduled in 2025 or early 2026. The foundation prioritizes public entities and 501(c)3 educational organizations, ensuring equitable access to educational opportunities for all students. Note that operational costs and online fundraising are not eligible for funding.

Green Mountain Power (GMP) is committed to community support through its GMP Community Giving initiative, focusing on basic needs, safety, resilience, equity, and environmental stewardship. With a strong presence in Vermont and a dedication to sustainability, GMP prioritizes organizations that contribute to community well-being and education. Their innovative approaches, like the Zero Outages Initiative, demonstrate a commitment to creating a sustainable and equitable future for all residents.

The Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP) offers Small Education and Outreach Project Grants to enhance community awareness about critical issues affecting the Lake Champlain Basin. With funding up to $15,000, these grants aim to foster knowledge and skills among individuals, encouraging hands-on stewardship activities. Projects should align with the strategies in the management plan, Opportunities for Action, to promote informed decision-making and constructive actions that benefit the Basin.

The Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP) offers Education and Outreach Large Implementation Grants to enhance community engagement and protect the Basin's resources. These grants fund diverse projects focused on water quality improvement, habitat restoration, and educational outreach initiatives. Since 1992, over 1,500 grants have been awarded, fostering partnerships among local organizations, universities, and communities to promote stewardship of the rich natural and cultural heritage of the Lake Champlain Basin.

The Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP) offers the Organizational Support Grant to enhance the capacity of local organizations dedicated to improving water quality, wildlife, and cultural resources in the Lake Champlain Basin. With over 1,000 grants awarded since 1992, the LCBP fosters partnerships among diverse communities and stakeholders, enabling them to implement critical pollution prevention and habitat restoration initiatives. This grant aims to support these efforts for a healthier and more engaged community, ensuring the preservation of this vital natural resource.