Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in Vermont

The Rural Business Development Grants in New Hampshire aim to support small rural businesses by providing technical assistance and training. While there is no maximum grant amount, applications from the Northeast Kingdom are capped at $200,000, and other regions at $50,000. The funds can be used for various projects including training, market research, and community development. This initiative is crucial for fostering economic growth in rural areas, ensuring sustainable business practices and enhancing local economies.

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.

About The American Chestnut Foundation:

Our mission is to return the iconic American chestnut to its native range.

Our vision is a robust eastern forest returned to its splendor.

Small Grants Program

Are you looking for funding to support your American chestnut research? External small grants offer recipients a variety of benefits such as professional development and an expanded network. Grant activities contribute to the continuous renewal and development of faculty and staff, to the education and motivation of students, and achievement of our mutual interest — restoration of the American chestnut. This is a small grants program. TACF does not ordinarily fund projects in excess of $10,000.

The Grand Rapids Community Foundation's Fund for Community Good supports projects that promote equity and justice across various sectors, including education, health, and economic prosperity. This unrestricted fund invites partnerships with 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities, primarily focusing on Kent County, Michigan. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that dismantle systemic racism and foster inclusive opportunities, ensuring all community members can thrive. Eligible applicants can submit pre-applications year-round for potential funding.

The Citizens Grants: Financial Empowerment program supports nonprofits focused on creating measurable impacts in financial education for low to moderate income individuals and small businesses. This grant emphasizes partnerships with established 501(c)(3) organizations and encourages collaborative efforts that demonstrate alignment with funding priorities. By investing in financial literacy, Citizens aims to enhance fiscal health in underserved communities across select geographic areas.

Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets

The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets (VAAFM) facilitates, supports and encourages the growth and viability of agriculture in Vermont while protecting the working landscape, human health, animal health, plant health, consumers and the environment.

Farm Agronomic Practices Program

Program Overview

The Farm Agronomic Practices (FAP) Program provides Vermont farms with grants to install soil conservation practices. 

Grants are limited to $10,000 per farm operation per calendar year [January 1- December 31]. There is no competitive review process: funding is awarded in the order that applications are received. 

Applying does not guarantee that you will receive funding.

The FAP program also provides farms and service providers with Agronomic Training grants to attend trainings on agricultural water quality regulations and/or the impacts of agricultural practices on water quality. 

Practices that are installed before applying to FAP cannot be reimbursed.

Practice Requirements and Payment Rates

1) Cover Crop

Payment Rate: $55 per acre if planted before Oct 1, or $40 per acre if planted before Oct 10.

Practice Requirements: Cover Crop payment supports annual cropland to be planted to cover crops for erosion protection during the non-growing season. All cover crops must be seeded at highest recommended rate to provide effective soil coverage and minimize nutrient runoff during the non-growing season. “Early” cover crops must be planted prior to October 1 and may be planted using any method. Regular season cover crops must be planted prior to October 10 and must be drilled or incorporated. Cover crops planted after October 10 will not be reimbursed.

2) Crop to Hay Rotation

Payment Rate: $60 per acre. 

Practice Requirements: Crop to Hay payment supports annual crop land to be seeded down into perennial forages for pasture or hay production as part of a crop rotation. This practice does not apply to the establishment of annually planted and harvested food, fiber, or oilseed crops. Fields are only eligible for payment in the year they are seeded down. Nurse crops such as oats, barley, or peas are recommended to quickly establish soil cover and protect the crop during the early stages of establishment. Planting method and seeding rate must be appropriate for the seed type and provide full soil coverage.

3) Rotational Grazing

Payment Rate: $30 per acre. 

Practice Requirements: Rotational grazing payment supports well managed rotational grazing of perennial pastures with ruminant livestock. Livestock must be rotated at least twice per week and excluded from surface water, and at least three inches residual vegetation must be maintained after grazing. Livestock access to surface water at well-managed discrete watering areas and livestock crossings are allowable only when no other available options exist. Grazing plans, grazing maps, and records that indicate livestock are rotated at least twice per week to adequately rested pastures are required. Land planted to annual crops within the past year or land cleared of forest within the last five years are not eligible.

4) No Till Crop Planting

Payment Rate: $15 per acre. 

Practice Requirements: No Till payment supports the planting of annual crops without the use of tillage. A minimum of 30 percent of the soil surface must be covered by uniformly distributed plant residue after planting. There must not be any full-width soil disturbance performed from the time immediately following harvest or termination of one cash crop through harvest or termination of the next cash crop in the rotation, regardless of the depth of the tillage operation. Full-width harrowing, chisel plowing, field cultivating, tandem disking, or vertical tillage is not allowable under this practice. Cover crop planting must be drilled or broadcast, not otherwise incorporated. Manure injection with soil surface closure at time of injection is allowable under this practice.

5) No-Till Pasture and Hayland Renovation

Payment Rate: $30 per acre. 

Practice Requirements: No-Till Pasture and Hayland Renovation payment supports the use of no-till drill equipment and/or frost seeding to improve pastures and/or hayland without the use of tillage. Planting method should provide reasonable expectation of seed to soil contact. Seeding rates must provide full soil coverage and be adequate to accomplish improvement of forage/stands in pasture and hayland. Frost seeding must occur on non-snow-covered ground in March or April and include legumes in seed mix.

6) Manure Injection

Payment Rate: $30 per acre. 

Practice Requirements: Manure Injection payment supports subsurface injection including disk, shank, and grassland manure injection, injected below soil surface with a single implement. Chisel plowing or disk harrowing fields within two weeks of practice installation is not allowable. All injection must follow manure application standards of the Vermont Required Agricultural Practices rule including application of nutrients within agronomic recommendations.

Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets

The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets (VAAFM) facilitates, supports and encourages the growth and viability of agriculture in Vermont while protecting the working landscape, human health, animal health, plant health, consumers and the environment.

Historic Preservation Barn Grants

Established in 1992, the State-funded Barn Preservation Grant program helps individuals, municipalities, and non-profit organizations to rehabilitate the historic agricultural buildings that are a symbol of Vermont’s rural landscape. This is the oldest state-funded agricultural-based grant program in the United States.

Since its inception, the program has provided over $5 million towards the preservation of over 525 historic barns and agricultural outbuildings around the state. Preservation of these buildings not only protects Vermont's agricultural and architectural legacies, but it also generates jobs, supports independent businesses, increase civic participation, and bolsters a community's sense of place while enhancing the experience of visitors.

This is a reimbursement grant program. Grant recipients are responsible for paying for the full amount of the project. The state will then reimburse grant recipients once work is complete and paid for.

Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation

The Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation (FPR) is responsible for the conservation and management of Vermont’s forest resources, the operation and maintenance of the State Park system, and the promotion and support of outdoor recreation for Vermonters and our visitors. In addition, FPR is responsible for the acquisition, planning coordination and administration of all Agency of Natural Resources lands. Department employees are stationed throughout Vermont, including offices in Montpelier and at five regional locations.

VOREC Community Grant Program

The VOREC Community Grant Program (VCGP) is intended to fund community projects that support and grow local economies by leveraging outdoor recreation. 

The Vermont Outdoor Recreation Economic Collaborative (VOREC) Community Grant Program supports outdoor recreation projects that drive economic growth and enhance community well-being. Funded by one-time allocations by the Vermont General Assembly, we are launching the fifth VCGP grant round this fall. 

In order to maximize the impact of the available funding, the upcoming grant round will focus on project development and promotion. This grant will fund projects that will support local outdoor recreation economies, but need design, scoping, or planning work done to unlock other funding. This program will also help communities and organizations share information about their amazing recreation resources and businesses by supporting marketing, branding, and other promotion. 

The upcoming grant round will be closely tied to the vision, common objectives, and themes of Move Forward Together Vermont. The scoring system will be designed to elevate projects that address equity and climate resilience. Example projects that might score well could include:  

• Contracting a landscape architect to complete a park design for a FEMA buyout property  
• Creating a regional outdoor recreation marketing plan to attract outdoor recreationists to downtown businesses  
• Community-informed planning for both building and sharing information about accessible trails  
• Program development for classes or community events focused on building confidence in the outdoors   
• Creating a town-wide outdoor recreation wayfinding plan and installing signs/kiosks using accessible signage principles  
• Developing a community economic recovery plan focused on supporting local businesses, and outdoor recreation resources following emergencies and natural disasters.   
• Developing a climate risk mitigation plan and preparing permit applications for identified trail improvement projects. 

This funding opportunity invites innovative pilot studies focused on biological, behavioral, and social mechanisms related to HIV pathogenesis, aligning with NIDDK's mission and NIH HIV/AIDS research priorities. Topics may include exploring pathophysiological mechanisms of HIV comorbidities and coinfections, understanding HIV reservoirs in relevant tissues, and examining social determinants affecting health outcomes. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time of the applicant organization.

Local Food for Schools and Child Care Food Hub Grant 

The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets (VAAFM) is seeking applications from non-profit food hubs in Vermont to provide local food to eligible School Food Authorities. This funding opportunity is part of the Vermont Farm to School and Early Childhood Program and is funded by a one-time state appropriation for Local Food for Schools and Child Care (LFSCC) grants.

The purpose of this funding opportunity is to provide local food to Vermont K-12 students through non-profit food hubs. This opportunity is open to non-profit food hubs headquartered in Vermont. This opportunity is modeled after the Vermont Local Food for Schools program, which was piloted in School Year 2023-2024, using one-time funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. 

Food hubs will apply for grant funding to work with a particular subset of School Food Authorities (SFAs) that they have capacity to reach with distribution. Each SFA has a pre-determined amount of grant funding that they will access through this program. The amount of grant funding allocated to each SFA is based on enrollment data from the Vermont Agency of Education. Grant request amounts will be directly tied to the specific mix of SFAs that a food hub is applying to serve. 

If awarded, the SFA’s assigned food hub will make available the allocated amount as credit at the food hub, which the SFAs can use to purchase local food from the food hub’s catalogue.

The review committee will ensure that every eligible SFA in Vermont is served by a local food hub and provided access to free, local food. This grant opportunity is effectively using food hubs as a pass-through entity to provide local food funding to SFAs directly. Food purchased with LFSCC funds must meet the Vermont local definition (Act 129 of 2020).

A total of $300,000 is available through this competitive funding opportunity. There is no award minimum or maximum for this grant. Grantees will have up to two years to complete projects. Pre-award costs may also be available, with permission from the grant program manager. No matching funds are required for this grant.

Grants for Nonprofits : Early Childhood Arts Partnership Grants

Early Childhood Arts Partnership Grants support arts education for preschool-aged children through partnerships with arts organizations or teaching artists.

Grant amounts are up to $6,000.

The program prioritizes partnerships (such as with and between arts organizations, Head Start programs, regional early education collaboratives, and/or school districts) and supports programming tailored to the applicant’s learning community expanding access, engaging families, and strengthening communication and holistic instruction.

Examples of how grant funds support early childhood programming include:

• employing a teaching artist experienced in an arts discipline and in early childhood settings for a multi-day residency
• supporting children in reaching arts and arts-integrated curriculum outcomes aligned with TS Gold, Vermont Early Learning Standards, or National Core Art Standards,for example
• supporting classroom teachers with incorporating arts and arts-integrated activities in their classrooms during and/or beyond the timeframe of the grant
• promoting opportunities for interaction, collaboration, and/or planning between teaching artists and the classroom teachers

The NIDCD is offering funding to advance HIV/AIDS research, particularly focusing on areas related to communication disorders. This initiative supports low-risk clinical trials and encourages researchers to align their proposals with high priority topics identified by the NIH Office of AIDS Research. Applications must be submitted by the local deadline, with optional Letters of Intent due 30 days prior to the proposal deadline. This opportunity aims to enhance understanding and treatment in this crucial health area.

The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Vermont support eligible communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies that threaten safe drinking water availability. This program, offered by USDA Rural Development, provides funding for projects like constructing waterlines and treatment facilities, with grants up to $1 million. It aims to restore access to clean water following disasters such as floods, droughts, and chemical spills, ensuring rural areas and towns remain resilient.

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5418 - Optimizing PFAS Treatment Systems for Multi-contaminant Removal and Operational Benefits

Project Objectives

The New England Dance Fund Grant supports choreographers in New England by offering $500 to $1,000 for opportunities that advance their careers. This grant prioritizes diversity in artistic expression across various backgrounds and disciplines. Eligible applicants must maintain a Creative Ground profile and reside in one of the six New England states. The fund aims to empower artists through diverse opportunities such as residencies, workshops, and mentorships, fostering growth in the regional dance landscape.

The Red Sox Foundation offers event sponsorship opportunities to support community initiatives in New England and Lee County, FL. Sponsorships range from $1,000 to $10,000, with a focus on health, education, and recreation. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and align with the Foundation's mission to enhance the lives of children, families, and veterans. Applications for sponsorships over $10,000 are by invitation only, fostering impactful community partnerships.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for undergraduate students pursuing dietetics. Applicants complete a single application to be considered for multiple scholarships ranging from $500 to $25,000. Eligibility includes enrollment in an ACEND-accredited program and various special criteria. This initiative supports students from diverse backgrounds, encouraging future professionals in nutrition and dietetics. Membership in the Academy is recommended but not mandatory for application.

The Barr Foundation's Education Program is dedicated to transforming public high school experiences across New England, emphasizing excellence and equity for all students, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds. By supporting innovative models, investing in a skilled educator workforce, and fostering community engagement, the program aims to ensure that every student is well-prepared for their future. The Foundation prioritizes partnerships with public schools and organizations committed to these goals.

The Vermont Children’s Trust Foundation is offering the S. Whitney Landon Award to support organizations and individuals serving children aged birth to five and their families. With a total of $30,000 available, grants of up to $5,000 will be awarded to programs demonstrating innovative practices in early childhood care. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and home-based childcare programs, especially those collaborating with community partners to enhance their impact.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for graduate and doctoral students pursuing degrees in nutrition and dietetics. With scholarship amounts ranging from $500 to $25,000, applicants can utilize a single application to be considered for multiple opportunities. Eligibility includes enrollment in accredited programs and other criteria such as experience in education or dietetics. Membership in the Academy is encouraged, although not required, for most scholarships.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for dietetic interns, allowing a single application to apply for multiple awards. Scholarships range from $500 to $25,000, with eligibility for interns enrolled through June 30, 2024, including those with off-cycle matches. Applicants should consider their career goals in areas like clinical dietetics, culinary arts, and nutrition education. Academy membership is encouraged but not required. Fundraising determines the number of scholarships available each year.

The External Collaborative Research Grants by Boehringer Ingelheim support academic and clinical scientists in proposing research studies. These grants facilitate collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim, which may provide intellectual and financial support. Applicants must assume full responsibility for their research while complying with regulatory standards. The funding should cover research costs, excluding salary support for the collaborative partner. Interested investigators must apply online for consideration.

The Aquatic Organism Passage Grant, managed by the Lake Champlain Basin Program, aims to restore aquatic organism passage and enhance stream connectivity in the Lake Champlain Basin. With approximately $2.5 million available, the program invites proposals that support the Healthy Ecosystem goals outlined in the Opportunities for Action plan. Projects can include activities like culvert replacements and dam removals, with a focus on improving habitat and ecosystem functions for aquatic life. Applications are due by either September 8 or October 8, 2025.

The Lionheart Charitable Trust Grant aims to protect the environment and support underserved communities in Vermont. Established in 2011, this private family foundation focuses on providing grants for environmental initiatives, education, research, and cultural projects. However, it does not fund political campaigns or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to promoting positive social change and enhancing the quality of life for all residents.

Armstrong County Community Foundation

The Armstrong County Community Foundation, a public nonprofit corporation,

• Gives grants, scholarships, and organizational support to address the needs of our community.
• Builds a permanent endowment to help our donors create a legacy through this endowment.
• Promotes informed philanthropy to increase and sustain charitable resources for the region.
• Provides leadership and builds partnerships to identify and solve community issues.

Gerstbrein/McCanna Scholarship for the Arts

After a long and rewarding career in Landscape Design and Art Education, Lisa Gerstbrein/McCanna wanted to promote the Arts and Industrial Arts in the community where she made her home and her livelihood. Her career brought her tremendous joy in pursuits that she loved as well as the satisfying reward of helping students find inspiration in the worlds of Art and Industrial Art. She is a true believer in the concept of STEAM based education. Accordingly, she established a fund to provide scholarships for the advanced education of advancing Senior High School Students in these areas who are residents of Armstrong County, Pennsylvania and are pursuing higher education in an approved program within 300 miles of their respective school - Armstrong High School, West Shamokin High School or Lenape Technical School. 

Scholarship Details

• Available to High School Seniors
• Nonrenewable

All ACCF Scholarships are merit based.

The Coby Foundation Grant is dedicated to supporting non-profit organizations in the Mid-Atlantic and New England regions, focusing on innovative projects related to textiles and fashion. Applicants are encouraged to submit a letter of inquiry with a project description and budget at least nine months prior to the project start. The foundation seeks exhibitions, public programs, and publications that enhance understanding of textile arts, while promoting underrepresented artists and cultures.

The Lake Champlain Basin Program is inviting proposals for its Artist-in-Residence Grant Programs, aimed at fostering innovative projects that engage artists in utilizing scientific and cultural data to enhance the understanding of the region's natural resources. With approximately $80,000 in funding available, grants of up to $40,000 will be awarded to support sustainable AiR programs. This initiative seeks to promote artistic engagement with the Lake Champlain Basin's ecological and historical context.