Best Grants for Youth Programs in Vermont

The Agnes M. Lindsay Trust Grants provide essential financial support to nonprofit organizations in Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont, focusing on Health and Welfare, Dental Health, Camperships, Education, and Homeless Shelters. With a history of over 81 years, the Trust aims to assist those in need, especially in underserved populations. While they are currently not accepting unsolicited requests from colleges and universities, they continue to support initiatives that enhance community welfare and educational opportunities.

The Alchemist Foundation Grant provides small, unrestricted grants (up to $3,000) to organizations that focus on expanding equity and opportunity for youth in Vermont. Founded by John and Jen Kimmich, it aims to support initiatives that foster educational growth and inclusivity for local youth aged 16-24. Interested organizations are encouraged to reach out via email to align their missions with the Foundation's goals.

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 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 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: 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.

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 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 Green Mountain Fund, established by the Vermont Community Foundation, offers grants between $500 and $5,000 to support charitable activities in Lamoille and Orleans Counties. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt organizations and municipalities serving these areas. The Fund prioritizes projects that enhance community engagement, sustainability, and food security, and does not support capital campaigns or previously incurred expenses. Applications are accepted year-round, with funding decisions typically made within six to eight weeks.

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.

The Walter Cerf Community Fund provides large grants of up to $25,000 to support charitable needs in Vermont, with a focus on arts, education, historic preservation, and social services. Organizations serving Addison County or Brandon are eligible, promoting collaboration and support for underserved populations. Established in 2001 in memory of Walter Cerf, the fund aims to inspire giving and address community needs. Applications are welcomed from tax-exempt organizations, with specific project requirements for funding consideration.

The Walter Cerf Community Fund, established by the Vermont Community Foundation, honors the legacy of Walter Cerf by providing grants to organizations that improve the lives of Vermonters. This fund supports projects in the arts, education, historic preservation, and social services, with a focus on underserved populations. Grants range from $500 to $25,000, prioritizing programs that foster community collaboration and address local needs, especially in Addison County and Brandon.

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 Vermont Arts Council's Artists in Schools Grant supports multi-day arts experiences in schools, promoting collaboration between students and Vermont teaching artists. Eligible schools and arts organizations can apply for funding for projects that enhance arts education for preK-12 students. Projects should focus on creativity, equity, and access in the arts, while fostering community connections. Applications are accepted until July 28 for the funding period beginning September 1, 2025.

The Vermont Children's Trust Foundation offers Emergency Equipment Grants up to $2,000 for non-profit organizations serving children in Vermont. These grants address emergency situations like essential equipment loss due to disasters or theft, and the need for specialized equipment for children. The foundation prioritizes programs that promote positive family functioning and address societal issues affecting children and youth. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, ensuring timely support for urgent needs.

The Vermont Children's Trust Foundation offers quarterly Equipment Grants to nonprofit organizations serving children aged 0-18 in Vermont. These grants, up to $2,000, focus on primary prevention programs aimed at reducing juvenile delinquency and promoting positive family functioning. Eligible applicants include private nonprofits and public entities, while ineligible applicants include individuals and for-profit organizations. The foundation emphasizes programs that promote racial equity and effective youth services in the community.

The VMIG Charitable Giving Fund aims to enhance community quality of life in regions served by Vermont Mutual Insurance Group. This fund supports non-profit organizations focusing on education, youth development, community building, and basic needs such as housing and hunger. Eligible organizations must operate within specific states and provide proof of 501(c)(3) status. The fund reflects a commitment to fostering healthy, vibrant communities through meaningful financial contributions.

The VCF: Hollows Fund Grant, established by the Vermont Community Foundation, supports educational opportunities and community sustainability in Poultney. Grants range from $250 to $1,500, aimed at schools and nonprofits addressing children's needs and fostering engagement. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and provide ADA-accessible programs. The fund prioritizes collaborative projects that enhance community connections and respond to local challenges, promoting a vibrant and inclusive environment for all residents.

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 Hilles Fund Grant supports programs that serve vulnerable populations in Philadelphia and Vermont's Northeast Kingdom. With grants ranging from $4,000 to $10,000, it prioritizes initiatives that provide children, youth, and women with pathways to economic independence, including educational opportunities and social services. The fund also values advocacy efforts aligned with its mission and gives preference to organizations with operating budgets under $2 million.

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.

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 Clowes Fund focuses on supporting socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals in New England, particularly in Vermont. The fund prioritizes immigrant services, workforce development, and arts education. It is crucial for applicants to be aware that only organizations meeting specific eligibility criteria will be considered for funding. The application process is competitive, and transparency is emphasized, as fewer than 10% of introductory applications lead to grants. For more details, visit their official site.

The Dealer.com Community Partnership Grant supports initiatives that create meaningful community impact, aligned with Cox's values. Focus areas include STEAM education, youth development, local sustainability, food security, and health and wellness. Grants are available for capital campaigns and special projects, with a priority on organizations with budgets under $3 million located in Vermont. Applications for 2026 sponsorships are now open, promoting a commitment to building stronger communities.

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 Vermont Children's Trust Foundation offers program grants aimed at preventing juvenile delinquency, truancy, and substance abuse among children aged 0-18. These grants support community-based initiatives that promote positive family functioning, enhance societal support, and address protective factors for at-risk youth. Organizations can apply for one-year grants up to $12,000 or three-year grants up to $15,000 annually, fostering sustainable programming to benefit Vermont's families and children.

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.