Best Grants for Community Centers in Vermont

The Community Health Investment Fund (CHIF) at the University of Vermont Medical Center offers grants to address pressing health priorities identified through the Community Health Needs Assessment. With an annual investment exceeding $1 million, CHIF supports initiatives that promote community connectedness, mental health engagement, and improved healthcare access. Projects must align with the 2025 priorities, fostering healthier communities through targeted support and resources.

The Grafton Fund, administered by the Windham Foundation, supports community-driven projects in the Grafton, Vermont area. As an operating foundation, Windham enhances economic and cultural life through grants to nonprofit organizations and the operation of local enterprises like the Grafton Inn. This fund aims to foster community development and preserve the region's historic and natural resources, benefiting both residents and visitors alike.

The J. Warren & Lois McClure Foundation provides invitation-only grants aimed at enhancing postsecondary education opportunities for young Vermonters. By prioritizing equity and systemic change, the foundation supports initiatives that make education more accessible and affordable. Grants range from $10,000 to over $100,000, focusing on scaling Vermont's Free Degree Promise and diversifying the public educator workforce. Organizations serving Vermont's communities are encouraged to apply for funding aligned with these goals.

The Labcorp Charitable Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) entity, aims to enhance healthcare access and education for all. With grant opportunities focusing on food programs, healthcare services for underserved populations, and STEM initiatives, it seeks to support community health and well-being. Organizations eligible for funding must be U.S.-based and hold tax-exempt status. Requests are reviewed biannually, in March and September, to foster impactful community projects.

The McClure Foundation Mini-Grants aim to enhance career exploration and postsecondary planning for young Vermonters. With grants ranging from $250 to $2,500, the program supports schools, libraries, and community organizations that provide crucial resources for students. Given the low continuation rates to higher education, these grants seek to make pathways to promising careers more visible, accessible, and equitable, ensuring that all young people in Vermont have the support they need to succeed.

The Rapid Response Grant from Vermont Humanities offers quick funding for humanities-focused community projects, providing up to $1,000 in support. Applications are reviewed monthly, with timely decisions made by the 15th if submitted by the first of the month. This grant aims to engage and strengthen Vermont communities through small, impactful projects that can be completed within three months, fostering a culture of thoughtfulness and a love for reading and learning.

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.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

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 Vermont Civil Money Penalty Grant Program aims to utilize federally imposed civil money penalty funds to enhance the quality of care and life for residents in CMS-certified nursing homes. It invites applications for innovative quality improvement initiatives that go beyond standard operations, focusing on evidence-based practices. Eligible organizations include consumer advocacy groups, nursing home associations, and academic institutions, while ensuring compliance with federal health standards.

The Vermont Arts Council's Animating Infrastructure Grant supports communities in integrating public art into infrastructure projects. This initiative encourages collaboration between artists and local communities to enhance pride and identity through site-specific art installations. The program aims to improve livability in Vermont by utilizing various infrastructure elements, fostering connections, and creating vibrant spaces. Grants are available for both public art design and implementation, providing funding up to $15,000 for selected projects.

The Arts & Social Cohesion Grant, funded by the Vermont Community Foundation, aims to enhance community belonging through diverse artistic projects. Grants up to $10,000 will support initiatives like mural projects, artist residencies, and public performances that foster collaboration and engagement. The program prioritizes projects that connect marginalized voices and create inclusive environments, encouraging social interaction and community cohesion. This grant is designed for nonprofits and community groups focused on impactful artistic endeavors.

The Dairy Processor Innovation Grant, offered by the Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center, is designed to support dairy processors in enhancing their long-term business viability. With grants ranging from $75,000 to $250,000, this program encourages investments in sourcing, product development, and sustainable practices. Available to applicants across Northeast states, it aims to help processors appeal to consumers who prioritize local, environmentally friendly products. The total funding available is $1,000,000, with a two-step application process.

About VHCB

Our Mission: VHCB invests in the construction of affordable housing and conservation strategies that work together to ensure equity, resilience, and vitality for Vermont communities in perpetuity.

HOME

VHCB administers the federal HOME Investment Partnership Program for the State of Vermont. Developments with HOME funds serve low- and very low-income Vermonters, increasing affordability in rental housing developments.

For detailed information on the HOME Program, see the HOME Program Handbook and our housing resources.

HOME Program Overview

The Home Investment Partnership Act (HOME) was created by Title II of the National Affordable Housing Act of 1990. HOME is a federally funded, block grant program for housing. The HOME Program has great flexibility and can be used to fund many types of housing activities: first time homebuyer and homeowner rehabilitation; rental housing production and rehabilitation; and tenantbased rental assistance. In Vermont, statewide HOME funds can be used for acquisition and rehabilitation of multi-family rental housing, and new construction of multi-family rental housing where there is a documented need.

Preference shall be given to projects located in the State's Designated Downtowns, Village Centers, neighborhood development areas and other areas that are consistent with the state's historic settlement pattern and "Smart Growth”

The Northeast Delta Dental Foundation grants aim to enhance oral health care access and education in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. The Foundation supports initiatives that focus on improving awareness of good oral health, preventive care, and accessibility of dental services. Grants typically cover one year and prioritize projects that serve disadvantaged populations. The Foundation encourages applications from 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations that align with its oral health mission.

The Cowles Charitable Trust Grant supports initiatives aligned with the philanthropic legacy of Gardner Cowles, Jr. Focused on education, social justice, health, and the arts, it favors organizations recognized as 501(c)(3) by the IRS. The Trust encourages applications for general operating support and seeks partnerships rather than being the sole funder. Notably, it considers applications from established partners and supports efforts in Downstate New York and South Florida, with a preference for diverse funding sources.

The Community Facilities Grant Program in Vermont provides essential funding to develop community facilities in rural areas with populations under 20,000. It supports public services like health care, education, and public safety, ensuring these communities can thrive. Eligible applicants include public bodies and non-profit organizations, with grants covering up to 75% of project costs based on income criteria. Applications are accepted year-round, but early submission is encouraged for timely processing.

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 Vermont Arts Council offers Creative Aging Grants to support non-profits in providing skill-based arts instruction for older adults aged 60 and above. Grants of up to $6,000 can be used for projects that foster social engagement and community building through the arts. Priority is given to projects led by Vermont artists that align with the Council's creative aging approach. This initiative aims to enhance emotional well-being and strengthen social bonds among older adults.

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 Vermont Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21C) Grant offers up to $650,000 annually over five years to enhance afterschool and summer learning programs. This initiative aims to provide comprehensive support for students, fostering educational opportunities and community engagement. Eligible applicants are encouraged to apply for funding to implement high-quality educational activities that address local needs and improve student outcomes.

The Philip D. Levesque Memorial Community Award offers two annual grants of $2,000 to local organizations in central Vermont. Established in 1994 by Gifford Health Care in memory of its late president, this award supports projects in arts, health, community development, education, and environment. Applications must be submitted by February 28 and should detail the project, budget, timeline, expected outcomes, and include a 501(c)(3) certificate. Gifford aims to honor community-focused initiatives.

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 National Life Group Charitable Foundation provides grants to nonprofits primarily in Vermont and Texas, focusing on proven programs that address issues like childhood hunger and family support. With an annual budget of $2 million, the foundation seeks proposals with a clear plan, community backing, and measurable success. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits, while ineligible projects include endowments, scholarships, and those that discriminate based on race, gender, or other factors.

The Samara Fund Grants, offered by the Vermont Community Foundation, focus on supporting LGBTQ+ led initiatives in Vermont. With awards typically ranging from $750 to $1,000, the fund prioritizes projects that promote empowerment, health, and safety for the LGBTQ+ community. Core values include anti-racism, transparency, and accessibility. The fund is committed to funding ideas that engage diverse groups, including BIPOC and trans individuals, ultimately fostering positive change across the state.

The Clean Water Workforce Capacity Development (CWWCD) Block Grant, administered by Watersheds United Vermont, aims to enhance the capabilities of clean water organizations in Vermont. This funding promotes equitable access for under-resourced entities to engage in essential clean water projects. The grant supports activities that foster community engagement, streamline administrative processes, and cultivate a diverse workforce in clean water project management, ultimately leading to increased effectiveness and impact in local clean water initiatives.

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.