Best Grants for Capital Funding in Vermont

The George W. Mergens Foundation Grant supports educational and experiential opportunities for youth, continuing a legacy of over $12 million in funding. Established in 1994 to honor George Mergens, the foundation focuses on enriching the lives of children and adolescents through health, education, and leadership programs. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits based in Vermont, primarily serving youth. The foundation aims to partner with groups addressing significant community needs.

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

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 Neil and Louise Tillotson Fund Dash Grants aim to enhance the quality of life in New Hampshire, particularly Coös County, by supporting nonprofit initiatives focused on health, education, and community development. Grants range from $250 to $2,000 for projects lasting up to one year. Eligible organizations include tax-exempt entities and governmental bodies, promoting sustainable practices and collaboration within the community. This funding opportunity encourages innovative solutions to pressing local needs.

The OSI Northeast Resilient Landscapes Initiative Fund supports conservation projects in New England, the mid-Atlantic, and Central Appalachians aimed at preserving biodiversity amidst climate change. This fund provides grants and loans to nonprofits for acquiring climate-resilient lands, enhancing ecological connectivity. Projects must meet specific criteria regarding landscape resilience and stewardship to be eligible. By focusing on high-priority areas, the initiative ensures effective use of resources to safeguard vital habitats and species.

The Town Fair Tire Foundation Grant supports local organizations in New England, focusing on social, health, and educational services. Established in 2000, the foundation emphasizes 'paying it forward' by encouraging grant recipients to assist others in need. TFTF aims to promote self-reliance and community advancement, funding initiatives that create positive change in the lives of individuals and families affected by poverty. Although primarily focused in New England, grants may be considered for aligned programs elsewhere.

The Paul Post Fund for Libraries, managed by the Vermont Community Foundation, aims to enhance literacy among young adults through grants ranging from $250 to $1,000. Although the fund is currently closed for applications in 2025, it traditionally supports projects such as acquiring books and hosting reading enrichment programs. Eligible applicants include public libraries and nonprofit organizations serving Vermont, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility in all funded initiatives.

The Rural Business Development Grants in Vermont provide essential funding for small rural businesses by offering technical assistance and training. The program has no maximum grant amount, but requests are prioritized based on size, with limits of $100,000 for certain counties and $30,000 for others. It aims to foster economic growth in rural areas by supporting projects that enhance business capacity and community development while ensuring the funds benefit designated rural regions.

The Mascoma Bank Foundation, established in 1988 with a $1 million endowment, has awarded over $6 million in grants to enhance community well-being in the Connecticut River Valley and beyond. The Foundation prioritizes projects that ensure long-term growth and resilience for nonprofit organizations in its service area, including infrastructure improvements and new constructions that foster sustainable community development.

What does this program do?

It provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:

• To help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.
• Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.

What is an eligible area?

• Rural areas outside a city or town with a population of fewer than 50,000 residents. Urbanized areas near a city of 50,000 or more may not be eligible.
• The borrower’s headquarters may be based within a larger city so long as the project service area is located in an eligible rural area.
• The lender may be located anywhere.

Check eligible addresses for Business Programs here.

 What kind of funding is available? 

Grants are available to provide technical assistance to rural micro-entrepreneurs or microenterprises, up to $205,000 annually. Funding at the requested level is not guaranteed, and at least 15 percent matching funds are required.

Loans of $50,000 to $500,000 may be used for establishing a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund managed by the Microenterprise Development Organization. Total aggregate debt is capped at $2.5 million.

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.

The Northeast Kingdom Fund, established by the Vermont Community Foundation in 2011, provides annual grants up to $5,000 to support local nonprofits and community projects in Caledonia, Essex, and Orleans counties. This fund aims to empower residents and strengthen community ties through small-scale initiatives that address local needs. Over 90 organizations have benefited since its inception, exemplifying a commitment to philanthropy for the Kingdom, by the Kingdom, ensuring that the region's resources are invested wisely for future generations.

The Couch Family Foundation supports nonprofits in the Upper Valley and Martha's Vineyard, focusing on enhancing child and family well-being through equitable opportunities. The foundation prioritizes organizations that demonstrate strong leadership, community impact, and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Grants are available for various needs, including general operating, project funding, and capital support, with an emphasis on collaborative community change.

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 Adelard A. and Valeda Lea Roy Foundation Grant focuses on supporting organizations in arts, education, health, and environmental sectors, especially in underserved communities in Massachusetts and Northern New England. Grants typically range from $2,500 to $10,000, with an emphasis on projects that address food security, housing, and cultural access for disadvantaged populations. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that align with its current funding priorities, particularly benefiting low-income youth, Indigenous communities, and immigrants.

The Historic Preservation Grant Program, established in 1986 by the State of Vermont, supports municipalities and non-profits in rehabilitating historic buildings essential to local communities. Offering competitive 50/50 matching grants up to $20,000, this program aims to preserve structures over 50 years old that are on or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. The initiative fosters the revitalization of town halls, museums, and theaters, ensuring Vermont's unique heritage is maintained.

The Lloyd G. Balfour Foundation, established in 1973, focuses on educational support for underserved populations in New England. It offers scholarships for employees of the Balfour Company and their families, as well as funding for organizations that provide educational services in Attleboro and surrounding areas. The Foundation prioritizes programs aimed at college readiness and success, particularly for first-generation and low-income students, and encourages multi-year funding requests to enhance nonprofit sustainability.

The Working Lands Enterprise Initiative offers competitive grants to support Vermont's forest, farm, and food businesses, alongside producer associations. With $1 million available in FY 2025, applications will open in fall and winter, with awards announced in spring 2025. The Service Provider & Producer Association Grant combines former separate grants into one, offering $10,000-$75,000 for various projects without a match requirement, emphasizing support for Vermont's working landscape.

The Food Access Infrastructure Initiative Grant, offered by Farm Credit East, provides funding up to $50,000 to organizations aimed at enhancing food security in the Northeast. Eligible projects include improving produce handling, expanding storage capacity, and enhancing distribution capabilities. Non-profit organizations within Farm Credit East's territory are encouraged to apply for support in capital projects that improve food distribution infrastructure.

The Historic Preservation Barn Grants, established in 1992, support the rehabilitation of Vermont's historic agricultural buildings. This state-funded program has allocated over $3 million for the preservation of over 360 barns, fostering job creation and enhancing community engagement. Grants up to $15,000 are available for qualifying structures over 50 years old, promoting the adaptive reuse of these vital cultural landmarks. As a reimbursement grant, applicants must cover project costs upfront, with reimbursement following project completion.

The Canaday Family Charitable Trust primarily aims to support Vermont-based not-for-profit organizations that enhance the lives of children and families, advocate for environmental conservation and education, and address economic and racial inequalities. Grants are provided for innovative projects that produce measurable impacts, focusing on sustainability, self-sufficiency, and community engagement. The Trust emphasizes funding projects rooted in Vermont's unique context, promoting initiatives that empower local families and foster significant improvements in their quality of life.

The Resilient and Connected Appalachians Grant Program, offered by The Nature Conservancy, provides up to $100,000 for projects that acquire land and easements throughout the Appalachian region. This program emphasizes equitable conservation, aiming to support historically marginalized communities and enhance access to nature while addressing climate change impacts. Projects must demonstrate community engagement and align with the program's goals to protect vital habitats and foster resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

The Hansen Family Foundation Grant seeks to empower organizations that uphold the American values of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Focused on diverse causes like children, education, animals, environmental conservation, humanitarian efforts, and arts, the foundation is committed to supporting initiatives that create positive change. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits, while political campaigns and organizations with high budgets or overheads are ineligible. This grant fosters impactful contributions to society.

The Vermont Community Foundation's Spark Connecting Community Grant supports grassroots projects that enhance social capital and community connections in Vermont. With grants ranging from $500 to $5,000, it prioritizes initiatives from under-represented counties, fostering collaboration among local champions. The program seeks innovative projects that promote civic engagement, health, and resilience, while encouraging first-time grant seekers and organizations with smaller budgets to apply for funding.

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.

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 Crosby-Gannett Fund, established by the Vermont Community Foundation, offers a three-year grant of $22,500 to support innovative projects in the Brattleboro area. Prioritizing small community-based organizations, the Fund aims to enhance local impact by funding programs, capital projects, and operating expenses. Applicants must demonstrate how their initiatives address specific community challenges and contribute meaningfully to social and economic development, ensuring that grants are directed towards impactful, sustainable solutions.