Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Vermont

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 Grafton Fund, administered by the Windham Foundation, supports community-driven projects in the Grafton, Vermont area. As an operating foundation, Windham enhances economic and cultural life through grants to nonprofit organizations and the operation of local enterprises like the Grafton Inn. This fund aims to foster community development and preserve the region's historic and natural resources, benefiting both residents and visitors alike.

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

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 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 Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

The Multi-Year Sustaining Grants by the J. Warren and Lois McClure Foundation support small-scale projects in Vermont that promote equity in education and assist students in their postsecondary transitions. Grants range from $1,500 to $5,000 annually for three years, emphasizing sustained partnerships without formal proposals or reports. Eligible organizations must be based in Vermont and comply with 501(c)(3) requirements, ensuring inclusivity and non-discrimination in service provision.

The Rapid Response Grant from Vermont Humanities offers quick funding for humanities-focused community projects, providing up to $1,000 in support. Applications are reviewed monthly, with timely decisions made by the 15th if submitted by the first of the month. This grant aims to engage and strengthen Vermont communities through small, impactful projects that can be completed within three months, fostering a culture of thoughtfulness and a love for reading and learning.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

The Paul Post Fund for Libraries, managed by the Vermont Community Foundation, aims to enhance literacy among young adults through grants ranging from $250 to $1,000. Although the fund is currently closed for applications in 2025, it traditionally supports projects such as acquiring books and hosting reading enrichment programs. Eligible applicants include public libraries and nonprofit organizations serving Vermont, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility in all funded initiatives.

Wells Fargo Community Giving supports nonprofit organizations focusing on financial health, housing affordability, small business growth, and sustainability. The grant cycle runs from February to October, inviting organizations with 501(c)(3) status or equivalent to apply. Funding is prioritized for programs addressing critical community needs, while limited support is available for local initiatives like disaster relief and arts. Organizations must demonstrate fiscal stability and potential impact to be considered for funding.

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.

What does this program do?

It provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:

• To help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.
• Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.

What is an eligible area?

• Rural areas outside a city or town with a population of fewer than 50,000 residents. Urbanized areas near a city of 50,000 or more may not be eligible.
• The borrower’s headquarters may be based within a larger city so long as the project service area is located in an eligible rural area.
• The lender may be located anywhere.

Check eligible addresses for Business Programs here.

 What kind of funding is available? 

Grants are available to provide technical assistance to rural micro-entrepreneurs or microenterprises, up to $205,000 annually. Funding at the requested level is not guaranteed, and at least 15 percent matching funds are required.

Loans of $50,000 to $500,000 may be used for establishing a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund managed by the Microenterprise Development Organization. Total aggregate debt is capped at $2.5 million.

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 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 Vermont Humanities Project Grant supports nonprofit organizations that engage communities in the humanities, fostering a culture of thoughtfulness and a love for learning. By funding community programming and curriculum development, this initiative aims to enhance access to humanities for diverse audiences. Eligible projects include interactive discussions and programs that promote engagement among various groups. Vermont Humanities invites both new and existing projects to apply for funding to enrich the cultural landscape of Vermont.

The One Hive Foundation Grant focuses on promoting pollinator health and ecologically responsible agriculture through funding research and nonprofit initiatives. Launched in 2022, the grant supports diverse projects aimed at enhancing environmental data, public education, and scientific collaboration. Targeting verified 501c3 organizations, the foundation emphasizes ecological practices and community engagement in Vermont and beyond, with grants of up to $75,000 available to eligible applicants.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

The Lloyd G. Balfour Foundation, established in 1973, focuses on educational support for underserved populations in New England. It offers scholarships for employees of the Balfour Company and their families, as well as funding for organizations that provide educational services in Attleboro and surrounding areas. The Foundation prioritizes programs aimed at college readiness and success, particularly for first-generation and low-income students, and encourages multi-year funding requests to enhance nonprofit sustainability.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

The Crosby-Gannett Fund, established by the Vermont Community Foundation, offers a three-year grant of $22,500 to support innovative projects in the Brattleboro area. Prioritizing small community-based organizations, the Fund aims to enhance local impact by funding programs, capital projects, and operating expenses. Applicants must demonstrate how their initiatives address specific community challenges and contribute meaningfully to social and economic development, ensuring that grants are directed towards impactful, sustainable solutions.

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.