Best Grants for Community Service Projects 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 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 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 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 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 New Hampshire Charitable Foundation offers Responsive Grants to nonprofits in New Hampshire and select areas in Maine and Vermont. Grants of up to $10,000 can support operating expenses or specific initiatives addressing community needs. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with decisions communicated within 15–20 business days. This program encourages timely support for organizations aiming to improve community welfare and is designed for streamlined access to funding as needs arise.

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 Northeast Kingdom Fund, established by the Vermont Community Foundation in 2011, provides annual grants up to $5,000 to support local nonprofits and community projects in Caledonia, Essex, and Orleans counties. This fund aims to empower residents and strengthen community ties through small-scale initiatives that address local needs. Over 90 organizations have benefited since its inception, exemplifying a commitment to philanthropy for the Kingdom, by the Kingdom, ensuring that the region's resources are invested wisely for future generations.

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 Couch Family Foundation supports nonprofits in the Upper Valley and Martha's Vineyard, focusing on enhancing child and family well-being through equitable opportunities. The foundation prioritizes organizations that demonstrate strong leadership, community impact, and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Grants are available for various needs, including general operating, project funding, and capital support, with an emphasis on collaborative community change.

The NBRC Catalyst Program aims to stimulate economic growth in northern Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and New York by funding innovative projects that address regional economic needs. It supports initiatives like modernizing public services, enhancing transportation infrastructure, and developing workforce programs. By fostering partnerships and leveraging private investments, the program seeks to alleviate economic distress and improve rural vitality, ultimately leading to job creation and sustainable community development.

The VCF: Hills Fund Grant offers financial support ranging from $1,501 to $7,500 for projects that enhance educational opportunities and foster community sustainability in Poultney, Vermont. Eligible applicants include schools, municipal entities, and nonprofit organizations. The Hills Fund prioritizes initiatives that engage local residents and leverage additional community resources. Applications are accepted annually from January 1 to November 1, with a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility for all participants.

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 Windham Foundation Grants Program offers financial support to organizations enhancing the quality of life in Vermont. Grants, averaging $2,500 to $5,000, focus on agriculture, arts, community development, and wellness initiatives. Eligible applicants include non-profits and public entities located in Vermont, with a preference for collaborative projects. The Foundation encourages applications that demonstrate financial stability and a clear impact on community resilience, while limiting funding to no more than 50% of the total project cost.

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 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 Vermont Community Foundation offers the Nonprofit Capacity Building Grant to support consultant fees for nonprofits aiming to enhance their organizational capacity. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for strategic planning, financial sustainability, and diversity initiatives. Applications are prioritized for organizations with annual budgets under $250,000, and the program is open to tax-exempt entities serving Vermont. The grant program closes on November 14, 2025, and will reopen in February 2026.

The Deerfield River Enhancement Fund Grant, managed by the Vermont Community Foundation, supports environmental projects within the Deerfield River Basin. With a funding pool of approximately $14,000, eligible applicants include nonprofits and educational institutions in Vermont and Massachusetts. Projects can range from educational workshops to public access improvements, fostering community engagement and sustainability. The next grant cycle opens in November 2026, offering a valuable opportunity for organizations focused on preserving the watershed.

About Northeast SARE

The Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) Program offers grants and education to farmers, educators, service providers, researchers and others to address key issues affecting the sustainability of agriculture throughout our region.

The program serves Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. The program is administered by Northeast SARE's host institution, the University of Vermont.

Farming Community Grant Program

The Northeast SARE Farming Community Grant applies social science research and education projects that strengthen farming and food systems at the community level.

These projects explore innovative approaches to improving the health and sustainability of agricultural communities in the Northeast. This program supports projects that are grounded in community partnerships and informed by the lived experiences of farmers. It encourages collaboration among farmers, service providers, researchers, and nonprofit organizations to co-create solutions that are responsive to local needs and scalable across the region.

This program encourages innovative solutions to challenges in farming and food systems in the Northeast USA, including but not limited to the areas of: Marketing and business; Crop production; Raising livestock; Aquaculture; Economic and social sustainability; Ecological knowledge; Projects related to climate and/or bioenergy work that provide direct or indirect benefits to farmers,ranchers, and private foresters; and more.

Technical Assistance Program

Applicants and grantees of the Farming Community Grant Program are eligible for Technical Assistance (TA) provided by Northeast SARE’s Technical Assistance Providers.

Funding: This grant is reimbursement based; you must spend money to receive the grant funds.

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 Claremont Savings Bank Foundation Grant supports local non-profits enhancing community quality of life and economic vitality. Since 2003, it has awarded over $2.7 million in grants ranging from $500 to $5,000. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) approved and serve the Bank's CRA area, with a focus on civic, arts, social services, health, and affordable housing. The Foundation prioritizes community-impact projects, while excluding individuals, political, or religious organizations.

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 is offering one-year Arts Operating Grants for FY2026 to support arts organizations in providing high-quality programming that enriches local communities. These grants aim to bolster the creative economy by ensuring operational sustainability for organizations committed to accessibility and inclusion. Eligible applicants include nonprofit arts organizations and municipal agencies in Vermont. This initiative underscores the Council's dedication to fostering a vibrant arts scene that benefits all Vermonters.

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 Rural Business Development Grants in Vermont provide essential funding for small rural businesses by offering technical assistance and training. The program has no maximum grant amount, but requests are prioritized based on size, with limits of $100,000 for certain counties and $30,000 for others. It aims to foster economic growth in rural areas by supporting projects that enhance business capacity and community development while ensuring the funds benefit designated rural regions.