Best Technology Grants in Vermont

Small 501(c)(3) organizations in Vermont and the broader Northeast offering technology access, digital literacy, youth development, or related community programs can seek up to US $2,500 for program support. The Howard E. Stark Charitable Foundation prioritizes well-run groups with under $1 million in assets and limited government or fundraising capacity.

Researchers and practitioners examining technology’s social impacts can receive approximately US $200,000 from the Social Science Research Council’s Just Tech Fellowship, supporting work while residing in the U.S., including Vermont. This two-year award backs full-time projects on emerging technologies, power, and social justice, including issues of technology access and digital equity.

Nonprofit organizations providing technology access, digital literacy, or cybersecurity workforce programs in Vermont and other eligible countries can apply for support from Kyndryl Charitable Foundation. The foundation funds future-forward education, climate action, and inclusive economy initiatives, with a current focus on cybersecurity and AI skills and job placement for underrepresented learners and job seekers.

Churches seeking up to US $500 for technology, stewardship, or leadership development projects can apply to this program, which is open to local churches in the Kentucky Conference. Grants from The Kentucky Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church may benefit Vermont congregations exploring similar ministry technology and digital access initiatives.

U.S.-based nonprofits, fiscally sponsored projects, and charitable LLC initiatives working at the intersection of disability rights, justice, and technology can apply for Borealis Philanthropy’s DIF x Tech Fund, awarding US $25,000 - US $70,000. Organizations in Vermont may be eligible if they are disabled-led, under $1 million budget, and focus on technology access or digital inclusion.

Hawaii high school graduates pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees in medicine, science, technology, engineering, or mathematics can receive scholarship support to study at accredited U.S. colleges and universities. Administered by Hawai'i Community Foundation, this fund may benefit students from Vermont programs focused on technology access and digital literacy who meet residency and financial-need criteria.

Elementary school PTAs and PTSAs in good standing that want to run in-person digital safety and well-being programs in Vermont can apply for National Congress of Parents & Teachers’ PTA Connected: Ready, Tech, Go! grants, awarding US $1,500. Funding supports parent and caregiver discussions on screen readiness and healthy, responsible device use.

State-level PTA organizations working on technology access, digital literacy, or broader education initiatives in Vermont can seek capacity-building support to strengthen membership, leadership, and organizational effectiveness. National Congress of Parents & Teachers offers up to US $10,000 for up to 10 state PTAs, with staff support and peer cohort learning opportunities during FY2025–2026.

Vermont 501(c)(3) organizations focused on STEM education and digital literacy can apply for funding that supports technology, professional skills, and workforce development projects. Focused on technology access and digital literacy, C Spire Wireless Foundation invites nonprofits across its U.S. service region, including Vermont, to request support at least 150 days before their event.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations focused on STEM education, digital literacy, technology, and workforce development can apply for sponsorship support from C Spire Wireless Foundation. Focused on technology access and digital skills, the foundation supports projects nationwide; Vermont technology and digital literacy programs may be especially competitive if they align with these priorities.

Vermont undergraduate students in NOAA-related technology, science, engineering, or digital fields can access funding through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which offers up to US $40,000 plus a paid summer internship. This U.S.-wide program supports full-time 2nd- and 3rd-year students, including community college transfers, preparing them for oceanic and atmospheric science and education careers.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Vermont and across the U.S. can seek funding for technology education, digital literacy, and related community programs through Affirm Cares. Affirm Cares provides support for initiatives in technology access and training, financial literacy, housing insecurity, civic engagement, and vibrant community development, with applications accepted on a rolling basis.

Eligible incorporated entities, tribal organizations, governments, cooperatives, and other legal entities in rural areas, including Vermont, can apply for US $100,000 - US $5,000,000 to build broadband infrastructure and community connectivity. Grants from USDA Rural Development help expand technology access and digital literacy through high-speed internet, community centers, and free connections for critical community facilities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations running Christian technology, media, or holistic ministry projects can apply for grants that support evangelism, leadership development, and digital outreach, including in Vermont. Grants from Festus and Helen Stacy Foundation help ministries use media and technology to engage communities, assist vulnerable populations, and serve children and youth locally, nationally, and internationally.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) community nonprofits, including those in Vermont, can apply for OpenAI’s People-First AI Fund to explore how AI and technology can strengthen community services, arts, or local journalism. Eligible small to mid-sized organizations and select regranting institutions may receive unrestricted support to improve access to information, services, and digital tools.

Vermont organizations working on science, education, creativity, or technology access and digital literacy can access funding through Promega for community programs and experimental initiatives. Eligible applicants must be based in the U.S. or Canada and may propose projects that advance scientific understanding, expand educational opportunities, or enhance arts and cultural engagement.

Nonprofits and for-profit organizations focused on technology access, digital literacy, and future workers can receive US $100,000 plus HP technology and a six-month virtual capacity-building program. Focused on digital inclusion, Hewlett Packard Enterprise Foundation invites U.S.-based groups, including those serving Vermont youth, on-demand workers, and small businesses, to scale their impact through the Future of Work Accelerator.

K-12 education researchers and school or district partners in Vermont studying technology access and digital literacy can pursue funding to conduct rigorous causal studies of cell phone policies’ impacts on academic, behavioral, and mental health outcomes. Arnold Ventures supports U.S.-based Randomized Controlled Trials and quasi-experimental designs that generate actionable evidence for policymakers and education leaders.

Internet Society Chapters working on technology access and digital literacy in Vermont can apply for funding to improve community connectivity, affordability, and online safety. The Internet Society Foundation provides up to US $35,000 for projects that expand meaningful Internet access, strengthen local partnerships, and advocate for an open, trustworthy online environment.

Vermont public-serving organizations, businesses, and other entities working on AI readiness and digital technology access can access funding through the National Science Foundation to serve as a State/Territory Coordination Hub. This national program awards US $3,000,000 - US $4,000,000 to coordinate partners, expand AI tools and resources, and support workforce upskilling across the state.

The Bernie Smillie Memorial Scholarship was established in 2010, in memory of Freeland resident and business owner Bernie Smillie. Bernie passed away in 2000, due to complications from a lung transplant he had received in 1994. In 2005, family and friends of Bernie established the Bernie Smillie Memorial Golf Outing. Proceeds of this outing has helped to promote organ donor support and awareness and establish this scholarship fund.

Bernie Smillie Memorial Scholarship - Michigan Resident

Evaluation Criteria

• Financial need (20)
• Work experience (20)
• Overall involvement at work, school and community activities (20)
• Career goals as demonstrated in essay (20)
• Letters of recommendation

Women of Colors Scholarship

Women of Colors (WOC) was founded in 1993 by a group of women that believed it would take a cooperative effort of women of all nationalities, ages and socioeconomic status to address issues plaguing the Saginaw Community. The founders believed that women should take a more active role in addressing issues of crime, blight and poverty. WOC began by providing support, community outreach services and facilitating discussions within the community. WOC’s mission promotes multi-cultural diversity and enhances community relations in Saginaw County by performing community service, mentoring youth, and collaborating with other organizations.

The Women of Colors Scholarship will be awarded each year to a Great Empowering Motivational Sessions (GEMS) member that is an area high school senior actively involved in efforts to empower young women and in activities that address issues affecting young women in the Saginaw Community. If no GEMS members are high school seniors, applications will be accepted from non-GEMS applicants.

The Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program (TBCP) aims to enhance broadband access and adoption on Tribal lands, supporting initiatives for remote learning, telework, and telehealth. Administered by NTIA, this program provides vital funding to eligible entities under the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021. This funding is crucial for fostering digital inclusion and improving connectivity in underserved Tribal communities.

The Native Entities Grant Program, initiated by NTIA under the Digital Equity Act of 2021, aims to support Indian Tribes, Alaska Native entities, and Native Hawaiian organizations. This program streamlines funding through a unified application for two significant initiatives: the State Digital Equity Capacity Grant and the Digital Equity Competitive Grant. By focusing on reducing administrative burdens, it enhances access to digital resources and equity in underserved communities.

This initiative aims to enhance clinical and public health outcomes through innovative digital health interventions. It supports research on the development and effectiveness of tools designed for underserved settings, leveraging new technologies and analytics. By fostering collaborations between U.S. and low- and middle-income country researchers, the program emphasizes reciprocal innovation to tackle common health challenges, ultimately maximizing benefits for diverse populations.

The International Research Scientist Development Award (IRSDA) supports U.S. postdoctoral researchers and junior faculty to engage in mentored research and career development in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This initiative promotes collaboration with local researchers, enhancing understanding of the research environment and strengthening international networks. Recipients are expected to spend significant time at LMIC sites, ultimately aiming to develop competitive NIH research proposals and become leaders in global health.

The Local Section Member Engagement (LS-MEET) Grant Program, provided by the American Chemical Society, aims to enhance community engagement within local sections. With a funding cap of $2,000, this program supports initiatives that attract new members and strengthen existing communities. Eligible projects may include innovative technology use, targeted events for underrepresented local chemist groups, and activities that promote interaction among members. Applications should align with local section goals and detail specific budgetary needs.