Best Grants for Equine Nonprofits in Vermont

The Dressage Foundation

The Dressage Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, tax-exempt organization, whose mission is to cultivate and provide financial support for the advancement of dressage in the United States.

In 1989, Lowell Boomer founded The Dressage Foundation (TDF) with a vision: to empower dressage across the country. Since then, we've awarded millions of dollars in grants, helping people across our sport, and across the country, achieve their dreams. From grassroots initiatives to high-performance endeavors, we aim to create a strong, inclusive, and vibrant dressage community.

We strive to cultivate dressage excellence by reducing some of the financial barriers of dressage training and education, and we believe that every aspect of our sport deserves help.

George Williams Young Professional Fund

The George Williams Young Professional Fund supports dressage professionals, ages 25-35, who are committed to the sport and have established businesses as instructors and trainers.   

The George Williams Young Professional Fund was established in 2018 to honor his lifelong commitment to dressage. Applicants should have a strong desire to participate in continuing education opportunities, in order to provide higher-quality instruction to their students. 

Equine organizations promoting Morgan horses can request up to US $10,000 for any Morgan breed promotion purpose, including clubs, barns, and AMHA-affiliated groups in Vermont and beyond. Focused on equestrian sports, American Morgan Horse Association invites eligible groups with registered Morgans and at least one AMHA member to apply for flexible promotional funding.

Individuals entering or continuing college who have participated in equestrian activities can receive scholarship support for higher education in the U.S., including Vermont. With a mission to partner with donors statewide, North Carolina Community Foundation provides scholarships of more than US $1,000 through the NC Hunter and Jumper Association’s Norah Morris Memorial Scholarship Endowment.

Female high school seniors involved in equestrian sports who are graduating from Henderson, Smith, or Van Zandt County and planning to attend any U.S. college can receive scholarship support for tuition, fees, room, board, and supplies. The Leslie Reid Memorial Scholarship from East Texas Communities Foundation awards US $1,250 and may benefit students in equine-focused Vermont programs attending these colleges.

Vermont equestrian organizations serving people with cystic fibrosis may be eligible for support of horseback riding activities through the Loretta Morris Memorial Grants, which offer up to US $750. California children and adults with CF seeking horseback riding, dance, or golf activities receive priority, with payments made directly to the activity provider or billing organization.

Vermont equestrian sports nonprofits, especially 501(c)(3) organizations promoting polo among young players, can access funding through the Frederic C. Collin Trust for programs that advance polo and tennis. Grants of US $2,000 - US $3,800 are available to support eligible youth-focused sports activities nationwide, including equine-related initiatives.

Student-athletes in equestrian and other NCAA fall sports from member schools, including those in Vermont, can receive US $10,000 for accredited graduate study. With a mission to promote postgraduate education, National Collegiate Athletic Association provides scholarships recognizing academic excellence, athletic achievement, leadership, and community service for those in their final year of eligibility or recently graduated.

Equine adoption and welfare organizations in Vermont focused on retired Thoroughbred racehorses can apply for American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) Right Horse grants, awarding US $5,000 - US $50,000 for capacity-building, adoption, or safety net programs. Eligible applicants include ASPCA Right Horse partners and active Warm-Up Ring participants meeting ASPCA grantee standards.

ASPCA Right Horse Adoption Partners, Industry Partners, and active Warm-Up Ring participants in Vermont can apply for US $10,000 - US $40,000 to expand or improve programs adopting out retired Thoroughbred racehorses. Funding from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals supports training, rehabilitation, adopter engagement, and other capacity-building or efficiency efforts.

Vermont equine and animal welfare organizations conducting formal research on shelter care, management, or prevention-focused programs can access funding through the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Investigators affiliated with U.S. entities and eligible Canadian public universities or municipalities may receive up to US $50,000 for high-quality studies benefiting animal welfare.

Universities, animal welfare organizations, veterinary clinics, and other U.S.-based entities, plus eligible Canadian public universities and municipalities, can apply for ASPCA cruelty research grants up to US $50,000 to study equine, cat, or dog cruelty. Vermont equine nonprofits partnering with researchers may be eligible for projects improving animal welfare and community or systems-level responses.

Universities, veterinary hospitals, animal welfare organizations, and other research teams can seek up to US $50,000 to study access to veterinary care for horses and other companion animals, including in Vermont. Focused on animal welfare, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals invites rigorous projects that generate practical tools or guidelines for improving veterinary access.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits with audited expenses over $2 million that provide direct social services, including in Vermont, can apply for William Randolph Hearst Foundation grants of more than US $100,000 for program, capital, or general support. Organizations addressing chronic poverty, economic independence, youth development, housing, or related priorities may be competitive applicants.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

Equine-related 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Vermont that improve community quality of life may be eligible for funding to support programs and operations. Grants from O'Reilly Automotive Foundation help U.S.-based charities in O’Reilly Auto Parts communities address economic stability, workforce development, health and social services, and disaster relief through project, general operating, or capital support.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

Nonprofit organizations across the U.S. that lead strong, replicable community partnerships can apply for national recognition and support through the Community Partnership Award. With a mission to honor exemplary collaborations, Mutual of America Foundation provides awards to six partnerships each year, which may include equine-focused nonprofits in Vermont working with cross-sector partners.

Nonprofits and on-the-ground organizations serving marginalized communities can apply for Semnani Family Foundation grants to support health, education, and disaster relief initiatives, including in Vermont. Programs addressing healthcare access, women and children’s health, humanitarian aid, literacy, or related human services may be eligible, and equine nonprofits with such missions could potentially benefit.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations, including Vermont equine nonprofits with educational, scientific, medical, or general charitable programs, may be eligible for support to strengthen services and community impact. Sidney Stern Memorial Trust funds tax-exempt charities whose well-managed programs significantly benefit their target populations and contribute to overall public welfare within the U.S.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.

The Scaife Family Foundation Grant has been supporting vulnerable community members for nearly 40 years, providing over $180 million in donations to non-profits. The Foundation aims to match organizations with aligned goals, focusing on women and children, addiction prevention, and animal welfare. It offers grants for general operating and program support, prioritizing impactful programs that address societal issues. Notably, the Foundation considers proposals that foster healthy relationships and promote treatment for addiction, enhancing the welfare of both humans and animals.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.