Best Grants for Preschools in Vermont

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 Coby Foundation Grant is dedicated to supporting non-profit organizations in the Mid-Atlantic and New England regions, focusing on innovative projects related to textiles and fashion. Applicants are encouraged to submit a letter of inquiry with a project description and budget at least nine months prior to the project start. The foundation seeks exhibitions, public programs, and publications that enhance understanding of textile arts, while promoting underrepresented artists and cultures.

Hazard Mitigation Funding Programs

FEMA Hazard Mitigation projects for Vermont towns and other eligible applicants for projects that reduce the risk of flooding or other hazards can include the following eligible project types:

• Buyouts
• Structural Elevations & Mitigation Reconstruction
• Natural resource projects such as floodplain restorations or dam removals
• Infrastructure projects such as upsizing bridges or culverts
• Floodproofing of municipal or commercial buildings
• Road relocation, elevation, or soil stabilization

Hazard Mitigation Information & Support

Hazard Mitigation is sustained action taken to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to people and their property from hazards.

Hazard mitigation funds are available to municipalities and other organizations to help reduce or eliminate loss of life and property by taking measures to reduce the impacts of future disasters.

The Vermont Emergency Management Hazard Mitigation Team supports state agencies, non-profits, Regional Planning Commissions and municipalities in applying for and implementing projects under Hazard Mitigation grant programs. We also support Regional Planning Commissions, municipalities, special districts, and other governmental entities in conducting natural hazard mitigation planning, and developing FEMA-approved Local Hazard Mitigation Plans.

2026 Hazard Mitigation Funding Opportunities

Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant program for states and local communities to support mitigation activities. The funding available for FY2024/2025 is $2,000,000 federal share set-aside for Vermont. Funding can be used for project scoping, building code enhancements, and project implementation. Applications under BRIC are submitted through FEMA GO. 

Lake Champlain Basin Program

Mission

The Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP) coordinates and funds efforts that benefit the Lake Champlain Basin’s water quality, fisheries, wetlands, wildlife, recreation, and cultural resources, in partnership with government agencies from New York, Vermont, and Québec, private organizations, local communities, and individuals.

Artist-in-Residence Programs

New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission (“NEIWPCC”), is pleased to announce a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Artist-in-Residence (AiR) programs in the Lake Champlain Basin. The aim of this process is to invite a wide range of innovative and effective projects and further the goals of Opportunities for Action: An Evolving Plan for the Future of the Lake Champlain Basin. The intent of this funding opportunity is to support development of sustainable Artist-in-Residence programs that will recruit artists to obtain and use scientific data, cultural trends, or historical facts to increase interpretation of natural resources within the Lake Champlain basin.

The Lionheart Charitable Trust Grant aims to protect the environment and support underserved communities in Vermont. Established in 2011, this private family foundation focuses on providing grants for environmental initiatives, education, research, and cultural projects. However, it does not fund political campaigns or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to promoting positive social change and enhancing the quality of life for all residents.

Watersheds United Vermont 

Watersheds United Vermont (WUV) is a state-wide network of local groups dedicated to the health of their home watersheds.

WUV's mission is to empower community-based watershed groups in all parts of the state to protect and restore Vermont’s waters.

Watershed Groups are broadly defined as a community-based organization working with individuals and communities in their local watersheds to protect and improve water quality, habitat, and flood resilience and to build social and ecological connections with Vermont’s waters. Watershed organizations work with all watershed constituents and do not represent a specific constituency or interest group. 

Enhancement Project Development Grant (EPDG)

Overview

Watersheds United Vermont (WUV) is administering funding under the Enhancement Project Development Grant (EPDG) program, which will support the project development of priority water quality enhancement projects from July 2026 through June 2028. WUV seeks proposals for the development of new enhancement projects and for the development efforts needed between the design and implementation phases of enhancement projects.

The EPDG program is part of WUV’s larger Enhancement Development, Design and Implementation Block Grant (EDDIBG) through the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation’s (VT DEC) Clean Water Initiative Program (CWIP). WUV has separated out the Project Development portion of this grant as the work completed under project development is significantly different from the work completed under design and implementation.

No match is required under this program. Please note that this funding can be used as match/leverage for other funding sources.

The James M. Cox Foundation Grant offers support to nonprofit organizations focused on conservation, early childhood education, family empowerment, and health. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and located in areas where Cox Enterprises operates. Grant applications are accepted year-round, with deadlines before Trustee meetings. Preference is given to organizations with a history of local engagement. This foundation embodies the philanthropic spirit of its founder, James M. Cox, by giving back to the community.

Friends of NRA

Friends of NRA is the National Rifle Association’s premier fundraising program, supporting the future of shooting sports. Since day one, Friends of NRA has been a 100% grassroots effort fueled by a united front to secure the Second Amendment and raise money for the shooting sports.

Committee volunteers are appointed to State Fund Committees to make recommendations for local grant funding in areas such as youth education, women-focused clinics, law enforcement training, hunter safety, range improvement, firearms and marksmanship training and safety. Recognizing the impact American youth has on the future of the shooting sports, State Fund Committees frequently recommend grants for youth programs, allocating the most significant portion of monies to this vital area.

Grant awards fund activities and support programs in the United States to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those in the shooting sports, and to educate the public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context.

Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program - Vermont

The Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program provides supplies, equipment, and financial support to a variety of qualified groups and programs at the local level; geared towards youth, women, law enforcement, veterans, the disabled, and the general public, including:

• General shooting programs
• Competitive shooting
• Education, training and safety
• Hunting and conservation
• Community outreach
• Historical education

Grant funding must be used to further a charitable purpose as defined by the Internal Revenue Code under section 501(c)(3) and accompanying rules, regulations, and other IRS law and materials.

The Encova Foundation of West Virginia is dedicated to improving communities by supporting local causes that align with the values of its associates and policyholders. They focus on health, education, and wellness, emphasizing the importance of children's success. Organizations applying for grants must be U.S.-based and verified as charitable. Preference is given to initiatives impacting health and education, especially those involving Encova associates as active participants.

The Allison Keller Education Technology Grant Program, established by the Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism, aims to bridge the technological gap for schools and organizations supporting individuals with autism. Since 2012, over $820,000 has been awarded to enhance learning through technology, including iPads and apps. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and public schools in Massachusetts and surrounding New England states, with one program per district receiving funding annually.

The Autism Community Impact Grant by the Flutie Foundation supports not-for-profit organizations that enhance the lives of individuals and families affected by autism. In 2023, the grant focuses on underserved and culturally diverse communities, funding programs that make an immediate impact. Eligible projects include educational, vocational, and recreational opportunities, as well as support services. The Foundation encourages applications that serve those profoundly affected by autism, aiming to improve their quality of life.

The George I. Alden Trust offers a Higher Education Grant aimed at supporting independent colleges and universities in New England, New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. The Trust prioritizes capital needs to enhance the educational experience, approving grants up to $100,000 for first-time applicants. Eligible institutions must have a minimum of 1,000 full-time undergraduate students and demonstrate a commitment to educational excellence and effective administration.

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.

Business Plan Implementation Grants

When funding is available, Farm & Forest Viability Implementation Grants are available on a competitive basis to businesses that have completed an up-to-date business plan or transfer plan through the Vermont Farm & Forest Viability Program to help implement specific goals of the business plans created through the program.

Overview & Eligibility

The Vermont Farm & Forest Viability Program is pleased to announce that grants of $1,000 to $8,000 are available on a competitive basis to Viability Program clients who participated in the program in 2024 or 2025. A completed business or transfer plan is required in order to apply. Applications are due Friday, May 1st, 2026, and decisions will be made in June 2026.

Eligible projects include, but are not limited to, business infrastructure construction, equipment, machinery upgrades, and energy efficiency projects that help a business meet business goals determined through their planning work. Funded projects will be closely aligned with goals as outlined in applicants’ business or transfer plans.

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.

Water Quality Grants

The Farm & Forest Viability Program provides competitive, reimbursement-based grants of up to $50,000 to help Vermont farm businesses in water quality capital improvements. This program is funded by the State of Vermont Clean Water Budget, and there is approximately $750,000 in available funds in FY26.

Overview & Eligibility

Any Vermont farm with a gross farm income of $15,000 or more that is required to comply with Vermont’s Required Agricultural Practices (RAPs) is eligible for this award. We will consider applications from non-farm entities playing an integral role in water quality management on farms, such as custom operators or non-profits. Please contact staff to ensure your entity is eligible prior to applying.

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.

Project Feasibility Fund

The Board provides feasibility awards to assist with pre-development costs and feasibility analysis for individual projects. Feasibility funds typically cover the costs of appraisals, energy assessments, marketing studies, options, engineering and environmental studies, or other pre-development costs.

The purpose of this fund is to provide applicants with a source of funding to cover predevelopment project costs as described below in order to answer the question “is the project feasible?”. Evaluation of feasibility fund requests is done by VHCB staff.

Amount of Award

Conservation applicants may request up to $10,000 as a grant for a single project to cover feasibility related expenses. Housing applicants may request up to $20,000 as a grant for a single project to cover feasibility related expenses and up to $25,000 for scattered site projects containing more than two separate sites. Funds can only be used to compensate contracted services and shall not be used to compensate applicants for staff time.

The EPSCoR Research Infrastructure Improvement-Focused Collaborations Program (RII-FEC) aims to enhance research capabilities in eligible jurisdictions by fostering partnerships among government, higher education, and industry. This program supports interdisciplinary teams of researchers to tackle significant challenges in STEM fields, promoting diversity and broadening participation. By integrating Minority-Serving Institutions and early-career faculty from underrepresented backgrounds, RII-FEC seeks to build sustainable STEM capacity and drive impactful discoveries across regions.

The Hoehl Family Foundation Grant supports organizations dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals in need. This private foundation emphasizes the importance of access to essential services like housing, education, and healthcare, regardless of socioeconomic status. Eligible applicants can seek funding for various purposes, including general operating support and capacity building. The foundation encourages partial funding requests and values demonstrated community support for financial needs.

Farm to Institution Market Development Grants

The Farm to Institution Market Development Grant (formerly Local Food Market Development Grant) is intended to support market development opportunities for local food producers, with a focus on Vermont institutional markets. Funding is provided to help improve local producer access to, and engagement with, schools, hospitals, colleges, correctional facilities, and other local institutions.

Eligible proposals will increase institutional market opportunity for at least one Vermont farm business and increase the amount of local food purchased and served in Vermont institutions. Competitive proposals will focus on collaboration, developing new sales relationships or deepening existing sales relationships, and values-based procurement for institutions serving meals to Vermont residents. Competitive proposals will demonstrate high likelihood of long-term, sustained partnership between Vermont farms and Vermont institutions. 

Examples of institutional markets:

• Colleges and universities  
• Schools  
• Early childhood education facilities
• Correctional facilities  
• Nursing homes  
• Hospitals and healthcare providers

A total of $30,000 is available through this competitive funding opportunity. The minimum award for this grant program is $10,000 and the maximum award is $30,000. Each successful grantee will have two years from the signing of their grant agreement to expend their grant funds and submit all required deliverables. All applicants must demonstrate 25% of the total grant award in matching funds; the matching funds requirement can be met with cash, in-kind, or a combination of both.

The Turrell Fund Grant focuses on supporting organizations that serve children and families, particularly in Vermont and New Jersey. Emphasizing early childhood development, K-12 education, and access to arts and social services, the fund aims to address systemic barriers and promote equity. Priority is given to initiatives that foster systemic change and advocate for policy improvements, ensuring every child has access to quality education and resources necessary for a strong start in life.

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.

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”

John Estrella Foundation: Helping Hand GrantThe John Estrella Foundation for Cancer Research was founded in memory of John Estrella.

Our funding supports a clinical protocol to acquire tumor samples from kidney cancer patients who have a kidney removed. These important samples are being used to identify factors that help predict which patients are likely to require additional therapy for their disease. With our continued funding, this protocol has been expanded to other major hospitals in the area, including Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and Beth-Israel Deaconess Medical Center. Purpose of the Grant: In addition to the ever-mounting cost of medicines and treatment, people with Kidney Cancer often need assistance with expenses like transportation, living expenses, home care, and childcare. The purpose of our grant is to provide support to individuals and their families experiencing financial burdens associated with a diagnosis of and treatment for Kidney Cancer.

The Ludcke Foundation

Guidelines

To identify and support charitable endeavors that provide needed resources and services to children and families, with an emphasis on emotional and physical health, education, and social development.

The Foundation devotes its grants to the fields of education, health, and human services. The trustees have a special interest in programs that focus across two or three of the foundation’s areas of interest and in partnering with other donors with similar objectives to enable more ambitious projects.

Current Grantmaking Preferences

Job training for systems involved young people, job training for adults facing significant barriers, and limited support for innovative approaches to helping children in underserved New England communities overcome significant and often overlapping barriers to educational success.

Access to health programs for all ages, and behavioral health services for children and teens in underserved communities or otherwise facing significant barriers.

Homelessness prevention, housing assistance, food security, legal assistance, holistic family support, support for young people at risk, and support for victims of domestic violence.

The Barr Foundation's Climate Grants program is committed to addressing climate change through equitable solutions that prioritize communities impacted by environmental injustices. With a focus on clean energy, mobility, and resilience, the program aims to foster an inclusive movement that supports diverse voices and builds capacity among organizations led by people of color. The initiative emphasizes collaboration and innovative strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and prepare communities for climate impacts.

The Barr Foundation's Education Program is dedicated to transforming public high school experiences across New England, emphasizing excellence and equity for all students, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds. By supporting innovative models, investing in a skilled educator workforce, and fostering community engagement, the program aims to ensure that every student is well-prepared for their future. The Foundation prioritizes partnerships with public schools and organizations committed to these goals.

The Vermont Equity & Justice Grant program, now closed due to fund depletion, aims to allocate $300,000 in 2025 to aid Vermont non-profits affected by federal actions. Organizations may apply for up to $15,000 and will be prioritized based on their work with marginalized communities, including immigrants and racial justice initiatives. Applications addressing needs caused by federal policies will be evaluated quarterly, focusing on preparation and planning support.

The Vermont Community Action Team Grant Program, funded by the Ben & Jerry's Foundation, provides small grants, typically under $2,000, to local non-profits and community programs in Vermont. Applications are accepted year-round and reviewed monthly. The program prioritizes support for underserved populations, addressing basic needs, and fostering community involvement. Ineligible organizations include those outside Vermont or focused on individual scholarships. For more details, visit their FAQs.