Best Grants for Grassroots Organizations in Vermont

Grassroots 501(c)(3) nonprofits with innovative human services or social problem-solving programs in Vermont can access funding through Creag Foundation. The foundation supports smaller or evolving organizations across areas like human and social services, health, environment, literacy, and community safety; interested groups may begin with a letter of inquiry, noting invitations are required to apply.

Grassroots 501(c)(3) organizations in Vermont supporting youth health, education, development, or welfare can apply for Dan Paul Foundation grants up to US $15,000. With a mission to enrich children’s lives, the foundation funds programs like early childhood development, child advocacy, homelessness and poverty services, refugee enrichment, and environmental education for young people.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

The Global Impact Cash Grants by Cisco Systems Foundation support innovative early-stage solutions aimed at addressing significant social problems. Targeting nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations, these grants focus on four key sectors: crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate regeneration. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with these areas, particularly serving underserved communities. The foundation seeks to leverage technology for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainability and community resilience through strategic investments.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

Grassroots nonprofit organizations in Vermont working on environmental education, environmental justice, or food and farm initiatives may be eligible for grants up to US $35,000. Grants from Harris and Frances Block Foundation help small and emerging groups advance food justice, farm and garden programs, farmworkers’ rights, and other efforts that foster just and sustainable communities.

Large, well-established U.S. 501(c)(3) cultural institutions serving Vermont and beyond can access funding through the William Randolph Hearst Foundation for arts and science programs. Grants of more than US $100,000 support program, capital, and limited general or endowment needs, with emphasis on arts education, artist development, and STEAM-focused science initiatives.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in the U.S. with audited expenses over $2 million that provide direct social services can seek more than US $100,000 to expand proven programs, capital projects, or operations. William Randolph Hearst Foundation prioritizes efforts addressing chronic poverty, economic independence, affordable housing, food access, reentry, youth development, and related services, including work benefiting Vermont communities.

Vermont 501(c)(3) nonprofits and equivalent charities working in health, education, or community services can seek funding for programs such as food pantries, healthcare access, STEM education, and preventative health. Labcorp Charitable Foundation provides support to U.S.-based organizations, with grant requests reviewed twice yearly in March and September.

Grassroots organizations, nonprofits, schools, municipalities, and coalitions in Coos County and nearby Vermont communities can receive rapid Dash Grants for short-term community and economic development projects. Focused on community revitalization, the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation funds one-year efforts like events, field trips, consulting support, or equipment purchases with awards from US $250 - US $2,000.

Grassroots and other accredited charities in Vermont and worldwide can seek funding for humanitarian, social development, science education, community, environmental, and contemporary arts projects. Grants from La Roche help organizations that promote sustainable development, engage Roche employees, and collaborate with local authorities and partners on high-quality, innovative community initiatives.

Grassroots and other nonprofit organizations working on health, education, or humanitarian relief in Vermont and worldwide can seek project support from the Semnani Family Foundation. With a mission to empower marginalized communities, Semnani Family Foundation provides funding for health care access, disaster relief, women and children’s health, literacy, and related human and social services programs.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

Grassroots social justice and environmental justice groups in Vermont can seek urgent funding for unforeseen crises or organizing opportunities through Haymarket People's Fund. Focused on community-based organizing, this program offers up to US $5,000 for charitable or educational activities, prioritizing people of color-led efforts and organizations with budgets under $400,000.

Vermont grassroots organizations, community groups, schools, and municipalities running youth programs in Bennington County can access funding through Vermont Community Foundation to support teenagers in grades 6–12. Grants of US $500 - US $10,000 back youth-led or youth-focused events, gathering spaces, inclusive activities, and opportunities for youth facing hardships in Bennington, North Bennington, Pownal, Shaftsbury, and Woodford.

501(c)(3) organizations working on poverty relief, children and families, education, health, disaster relief, animal welfare, conservation, veterans, or religious initiatives in the Southern region can apply for single-year program support. Robinson Foundation provides grassroots and other Vermont-focused groups serving communities below the Mason-Dixon line with funding that demonstrates tangible, meaningful impact.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on community services, environmental conservation, or peacebuilding can apply for flexible project support, including grassroots efforts in Vermont. Dudley T Dougherty Foundation provides funding to tax-exempt charitable groups seeking to create positive change for people, the environment, and broader social well-being.

Vermont grassroots and other 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and eligible local government entities can seek funding for education, entrepreneurship, environmental, and community enrichment initiatives that serve Georgia-Pacific communities. Vermont organizations must be within 30 miles of a Georgia-Pacific manufacturing community and may contact a local GP facility to explore support opportunities from Georgia-Pacific Foundation.

Grassroots 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Vermont supporting basic needs, at-risk youth enrichment, workforce readiness, or domestic violence safety may be eligible for funding if located within 15 miles of a TJX store, distribution center, or office. The TJX Foundation prioritizes programs helping vulnerable families and children access resources and opportunities to build better futures.

Nonprofit community organizations in Vermont can seek US $1,000 - US $20,000 to support museums, arts and cultural programs, education, health facilities, environmental and wildlife efforts, and community services. The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation supports IRS-qualified U.S. nonprofits, including grassroots groups where relatively small grants can make a significant impact.

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.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

Grassroots organizations and community groups in Vermont can receive US $500 - US $5,000 to launch hyperlocal projects that build social connections and community vitality. Focused on community-building, Vermont Community Foundation’s Spark Connecting Community program prioritizes small-budget groups, under-represented counties, and efforts that increase access to opportunity, inclusion, and environmental stewardship.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

Grassroots and other nonprofit organizations supporting youth education, family services, food security, or environmental stewardship in Vermont and beyond can apply for US $30,000 - US $350,000 to expand their community impact. Chick Fil A Foundation’s True Inspiration Awards fund programs caring for people, addressing hunger, strengthening communities, and caring for the planet across the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico, and select countries.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.