Best Transportation Grants in Vermont

Northern Border Regional Commission

The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) is a partnership between the federal government and the states of Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. The NBRC targets resources to promote economic growth strategies and projects in designated counties within its member states. The Commission was enacted by Congress through the 2008 Farm Bill which amended 40 US Code to include the creation of the NBRC as well as other similar Commissions nationwide.

The mission of the Northern Border Regional Commission is to catalyze community vitality and economic prosperity in the northern border region with flexible funding and strategic support. We envision a future where heritage industries are celebrated, preserved, and supported, vibrant local communities form a rich tapestry of culture, ideas, and experiences, and the seamless integration of emerging technologies fosters a new era of prosperity and economic resiliency.

Timber for Transit Program - Implementation Award

The Timber for Transit Program advances the use of domestic forest products in transportation infrastructure projects across Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont to showcase the capabilities of wood in these applications. Highly competitive projects will demonstrate and widely promote the utility of high value forest products (e.g. glued laminated timber, cross laminated timber, composite materials, etc.) in transportation infrastructure and commit to enhancing climate resilience in rural communities. Transportation Infrastructure shall mean construction, alteration, or repair of physical transport facilities, systems and structures, including fixed installations and rights of way necessary for transporting from one point to another, that: are open to the general public for use, facilitate reliable movement of people and goods, and influence local and regional economies.  

Construction or non-construction projects—such as assets and facilities that align with Timber for Transit program priorities will be classified as an implementation award. Implementation projects are eligible for up to $5,000,000.

Northern Border Regional Commission

The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) is a partnership between the federal government and the states of Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. The NBRC targets resources to promote economic growth strategies and projects in designated counties within its member states. The Commission was enacted by Congress through the 2008 Farm Bill which amended 40 US Code to include the creation of the NBRC as well as other similar Commissions nationwide.

The mission of the Northern Border Regional Commission is to catalyze community vitality and economic prosperity in the northern border region with flexible funding and strategic support. We envision a future where heritage industries are celebrated, preserved, and supported, vibrant local communities form a rich tapestry of culture, ideas, and experiences, and the seamless integration of emerging technologies fosters a new era of prosperity and economic resiliency.

Timber for Transit Program - Feasibility Award

The Timber for Transit Program advances the use of domestic forest products in transportation infrastructure projects across Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont to showcase the capabilities of wood in these applications. Highly competitive projects will demonstrate and widely promote the utility of high value forest products (e.g. glued laminated timber, cross laminated timber, composite materials, etc.) in transportation infrastructure and commit to enhancing climate resilience in rural communities. Transportation Infrastructure shall mean construction, alteration, or repair of physical transport facilities, systems and structures, including fixed installations and rights of way necessary for transporting from one point to another, that: are open to the general public for use, facilitate reliable movement of people and goods, and influence local and regional economies.  

Early-stage activities—such as planning, inventory assessments, engineering, design, cost benefit analysis, permitting, site assessments, and environmental assessments—that support future Timber for Transit implementation projects are eligible for up to $1,000,000.  

Nonprofits, businesses, municipalities, and schools in Vermont can seek funding to strengthen food security and transportation systems for children prenatal to age 8 and their families, with awards of US $10,000 - US $25,000. Building Bright Futures supports one-time projects that expand capacity, improve infrastructure, and increase reach, including regional transportation pilots and low-barrier transit solutions.

Organizations in Vermont working on community-based projects that improve systems, including public transportation and transit access, can seek Regional and Local Impact (RALI) support; awards are typically US $15,000 - US $25,000 per year. Grants from Vermont Community Foundation back collaborative, community-engaged efforts in areas like economic equity, climate, health, and democracy-focused initiatives.

Focused on climate action, Barr Foundation invites Vermont transportation and clean energy organizations to seek support for equitable mobility, renewable energy, and climate-resilient communities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) public charities, public schools, fiscally sponsored projects, and government agencies, with a priority for people of color-led, equity-centered climate initiatives in the Northeast.

Grants of up to US $5,000 help Vermont nonprofits and public agencies cover unexpected, urgent expenses that affect basic human services, including transportation-related access and support. Organizations serving Vermont communities through social services, housing, health, food access, or public transportation and mass transit systems may be eligible for Special and Urgent Needs (SUN) funding from Vermont Community Foundation.

State and local governments, counties, Tribal governments, transit agencies, and port authorities in Vermont can seek funding for major surface transportation infrastructure projects through the Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) program. US Department of Transportation supports multi-modal, public transportation and other public infrastructure projects with significant local or regional impact, offering awards up to US $25,000,000 nationwide.

Vermont emergency and medical workers needing help affording behavioral health prescriptions, counseling, psychotherapy, or related transportation can access funding through the Healthwell Foundation’s Emergency/Medical Workers Behavioral Health Fund. Eligible U.S.-based workers with qualifying insurance may receive up to US $2,000 toward out-of-pocket copays, including transportation costs that support access to treatment-related appointments.

Individuals in the U.S. receiving cancer-related behavioral health treatment and needing help with transportation and related costs may be eligible for up to US $2,000 in assistance. Healthwell Foundation supports public transit and other travel to covered appointments, along with prescription copays and counseling, for underinsured patients who meet its medical, insurance, and income guidelines.

Professional elderly blues musicians needing emergency help with transportation, medical, or basic living expenses can receive US $500 in assistance, including in Vermont. Pinetop Perkins Foundation provides support for those 50 or older with low income and a professional performance or recording history, paying creditors directly rather than individuals.

With a mission to preserve transportation history, the William G Pomeroy Foundation provides Vermont 501(c)(3) organizations, nonprofit academic institutions, and government entities with funding for historic transportation markers. Eligible projects commemorate pre-1945 canals, bridges, tunnels, railroads, or aircraft, installed at publicly accessible existing sites with inscriptions backed by primary source documentation.

The Smart Growth America Community Connectors Grant Program supports small and mid-sized cities in addressing divisive infrastructure caused by dangerous roads. With funding from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, this program aims to reconnect communities through temporary street safety projects while fostering skills and partnerships. Eligible teams must represent populations of 50,000 to 500,000 and include both government and community-based organizations. Priority will be given to projects benefiting low-income communities historically affected by disinvestment.

Nonprofit organizations working on mobility, public transportation, environmental conservation, or community well-being in Vermont and across the U.S. can apply for Bridgestone Americas Trust Fund support. Bridgestone provides US $5,000 - US $10,000 grants for projects that improve transportation access and safety, protect the environment, or enhance education and healthier communities.

Tyson Foods invites sponsorship proposals that reflect its core values and contribute to community welfare, particularly in Springdale, Arkansas, and Dakota Dunes, South Dakota. Proposals should demonstrate clear community benefits, visibility of the event, and outline how funds will be utilized effectively. Organizations are encouraged to apply if they align with Tyson's mission of integrity and stewardship, ensuring that funding can support primary objectives while considering tax-deductible options.

Students in Vermont majoring in transportation technology and enrolling in the following semester can receive support for higher education costs through the Eugene Frank Sommerlatte Endowment Fund, with awards of US $3,000. Grants from Austin Community Foundation help those demonstrating financial need, academic achievement, and leadership or community involvement pursue transportation-related studies.

Focused on transportation research and policy, Arnold Ventures invites Vermont transportation agencies, research institutions, and policy organizations to propose U.S.-focused studies and reforms. Grants up to US $200,000 support work on transit and road infrastructure policy, cost and delivery challenges, permitting, governance, and other evidence-based projects that improve transportation systems and outcomes.

The Hypertherm Good Neighbor Grant, offered by the HOPE Foundation, provides financial support of up to $500 to non-profit organizations. Founded in 2010, the Foundation aims to foster collaboration and sustainable change within communities. Grant allocations are made quarterly by a team of volunteer Associates, ensuring alignment with the Foundation's mission of respect and inclusivity. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) or educational entities focused on health, education, and environmental initiatives in specific geographic areas.

The Hypertherm HOPE Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations with a mission to create sustainable, positive change in communities. Established in 2010, the foundation prioritizes projects in areas like disaster relief, education, and health. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and align with the foundation's values of respect and inclusivity. Grant decisions are made by HOPE teams composed of Hypertherm Associates across various regions, ensuring local needs are met effectively.

Transportation and public safety agencies in Vermont can seek funding for planning, demonstration, or implementation projects that improve road safety for all users through the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program. Oregon Department of Forestry connects applicants to this U.S. Department of Transportation opportunity, offering US $100,000 - US $5,000,000 for safety-focused transportation initiatives.

State, local, and tribal governments working on road safety and public transportation in Vermont and nationwide can seek Implementation Grants to carry out projects from an approved Action Plan. The Oregon Department of Forestry notes this U.S. Department of Transportation SS4A program, which offers US $2,500,000 - US $25,000,000 for infrastructure, behavioral, and operational safety initiatives.

The FY25-FY26 Advanced Transportation Technology and Innovation (ATTAIN) grant program aims to enhance transportation through the deployment of innovative technologies. It focuses on improving safety, mobility, and efficiency while fostering economic competitiveness. Projects funded will prioritize core infrastructure improvements and address roadway congestion, aligning with the Trump Administration's goals. The program emphasizes economic opportunities and community benefits, ensuring that selected projects contribute positively to families and communities, ultimately enhancing their quality of life.

The PROTECT Competitive Grant Program aims to enhance the resilience of surface transportation systems, including highways and public transit, through innovative projects. With up to $787 million available from FYs 2024-2026, the program focuses on protecting transportation assets and communities, ensuring they can withstand challenges and recover quickly. This initiative also emphasizes the importance of coastal and natural infrastructure in safeguarding transportation networks. More details can be found in the full NOFO on Grants.gov.

The FY23 Bellows Falls Intermodal Center Rehabilitation grant aims to restore the passenger station to a state of good repair, enhancing its appeal and functionality as an intermodal transportation hub. This initiative will not only improve transit services but also play a pivotal role in the economic revitalization of the surrounding community. The grant will be administered by the Vermont Agency of Transportation, ensuring effective utilization of funds for community development.

The PEDIGREE Foundation offers Program Development Grants aimed at enhancing dog adoption rates by supporting shelters and rescues across the U.S. Established in 2008, the foundation prioritizes initiatives such as transport, matching, and foster programs. Funding is available to 501(c)(3) designated organizations committed to improving the quality of care for dogs and ultimately increasing their chances of adoption, ensuring that every dog finds a loving home.

AARP Foundation

AARP Foundation strengthens financial resilience for and with older adults by empowering individuals and improving systems.

AARP empowers people to choose how they live as they age. There are 125 million Americans who are 50 or older, and people want their money, health and happiness to last as long as they do. We are a wise friend and fierce defender, focusing on the priorities of older Americans.

Purpose Prize® from AARP

Honoring extraordinary people 50-plus who put their purpose into action.

Purpose is a powerful force for good. The Purpose Prize from AARP honors extraordinary older Americans who put their purpose into action to support AARP’s mission of empowering people to choose how they live as they age. Winners receive $75,000 and a year of organizational support from AARP to grow the impact of their nonprofits. Examples of organizational support include data and evaluation, governance and succession planning, fundraising strategy, and prospectus development.

The Banfield Foundation's Disaster Relief Grants support nonprofit animal welfare organizations and government agencies affected by natural disasters. Since 2015, the foundation has provided resources to help pets in crisis, including medical supplies, food, and temporary shelter. Grants are also available for organizations assisting those impacted by disasters. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) status and directly help animals and their owners in the U.S., ensuring that pets receive the care they need during emergencies.

J.B. Hunt Transport Services offers financial support for various community projects through its Company Giving program. Focused on four key areas—Health Care, Veterans' Support, Education, and Crisis Management—this initiative aims to enhance the well-being of local communities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and civic groups, while organizations that primarily benefit their members or have high management overhead may be excluded. The program underscores J.B. Hunt's commitment to corporate social responsibility.