Best Quality of Life Grants in Vermont

The Express Health Information Outreach Awards aim to enhance public health by increasing access to biomedical information for U.S. health professionals and the general public. These awards support projects that improve health information literacy among consumers and caregivers, ensuring they can effectively find and utilize health information. Focused on partnerships and outreach to underrepresented communities, the initiative seeks to promote healthy behaviors, prevent illness, and improve health outcomes through informed decision-making.

The Allison Keller Education Technology Grant Program, established by the Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism, aims to bridge the technological gap for schools and organizations supporting individuals with autism. Since 2012, over $820,000 has been awarded to enhance learning through technology, including iPads and apps. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and public schools in Massachusetts and surrounding New England states, with one program per district receiving funding annually.

The Marianne G. Faulkner Charitable Trust Grant supports charitable organizations with a focus on elderly care, environmental protection, and community preservation. This private foundation primarily funds two organizations and a park of significance to the donor. Limited support may also be available for other eligible nonprofits aligned with these interests. Note that only 501(c)(3) organizations can apply, and individuals are not eligible for grants.

The Ernest Morgan Memorial Scholarship, managed by CommunityGiving, supports central Minnesota student athletes and leaders to pursue higher education outside their home states. This scholarship aims to expand students' horizons and experiences, with a total award of $5,000 available. Open to high school seniors from specific schools, applicants are encouraged to apply online and demonstrate their leadership or athletic skills. This initiative enhances educational opportunities and fosters personal growth among local youth.

About Us

Since its creation in 1991 the Center for Crime Victim Services (CCVS) provides compassionate, victim-centered services to victims of crime. CCVS collaborates with partners across the state to develop and support new programs. Our goal is that each program be:

• innovative,
• comprehensive,
• accessible to all crime victims,
• respectful,
• and compassionate.

We support services for victims and survivors whether or not the crime is reported or prosecuted.

We work with government, survivors, and communities to create laws that will help victims rebuild their lives.

Victims of Crime Act

In 1984, the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) established the Crime Victims Fund in the U.S. Treasury and authorized the Fund to receive deposits of fines and penalties levied against criminals convicted of federal crimes. The Department of Justice is responsible for the distribution of the funds, which are collected by U.S. Attorney’s Offices, U.S. Courts, and the U.S. Bureau of Prisons. This Fund provides the source of funding for all activities authorized by VOCA.

The purpose of the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) is to provide high quality services that directly improve the health and well-being of victims of crime with priority given to victims of child abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault and services for previously underserved victims. The Office for Crime Victims (OVC) makes annual VOCA crime victim assistance grants from the Fund to states. The primary purpose of these grants is to support the provision of services to victims of crime throughout the nation. For the purpose of these Programs Guidelines, services are defined as those efforts that:

• Respond to the emotional and physical needs of crime victims;
• Assist primary and secondary victims of crime to stabilize their lives after victimization;
• Assist victims to understand and participate in the criminal justice system, provide victims of crime with a measure of safety and security such as boarding up broken windows and replacing or repairing locks.

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 Marvin R. and Pearl E. Patterson Family Fund Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports students aspiring to study graphic or fine arts, as well as those interested in environmental sciences. Open to high school graduates from the Tri-Cities area, this scholarship considers leadership, community involvement, and academic achievements, although financial need is not a requirement. Applicants must provide transcripts and relevant documents to qualify for this opportunity.

The Abelard Foundation, established in 1958, supports progressive social change projects located east of the Mississippi River. With an average grant size of $12,000, they prioritize new initiatives with budgets under $350,000. The foundation emphasizes community organizing, civil rights, and empowering marginalized groups. Eligible applicants must be associated with a nonprofit organization and demonstrate a commitment to local leadership and broader policy connections. The board meets biannually to decide on approximately 15 grants per year, focusing mainly on general support.

The Haymarket People's Fund offers Urgent Response Grants of up to $5,000 for grassroots organizations in New England to address unforeseen crises or opportunities. These grants support both urban and rural social justice efforts and do not require 501(c)3 status. Priority is given to organizations led by people of color that incorporate anti-racism values. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis after a preliminary conversation with Haymarket staff.

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 Music Drives Us Performance Grant supports talented musicians in New England by providing funding for free concert series in schools, after-school programs, and public spaces. With a mission to enhance music education, the grant allows musicians to receive compensation for their time and expenses while delivering educational experiences to underserved communities. Organizations can apply for grants up to $10,000, ensuring that music remains an accessible and enriching part of children's lives.

The Mazamas is committed to exploring and preserving mountain environments in the Pacific Northwest through research grants. These grants support nonprofit research that aligns with the Mazamas’ mission, encouraging proposals from graduate and undergraduate students. Successful applicants often conduct field studies that enhance understanding of the region's natural features. Notably, the Mazamas also welcome innovative research ideas that may fall outside traditional grant guidelines, promoting a diverse range of scientific inquiry.

The Albert G. and Olive H. Schlink Foundation, established in 1966, has significantly impacted Ohio's nonprofit sector by increasing its annual grant distribution from an initial $500 to over $1.4 million in 2023. The Foundation prioritizes organizations with ties to Erie and Huron Counties and emphasizes thoughtful evaluation of all grant applications. With a focus on community needs, it continues to honor the founders' legacy while adapting to the evolving demands of local nonprofits.

The Gridiron Veterans Scholarship, provided by the Bob Woodruff Foundation, offers essential financial support for military veterans and first responders. This initiative focuses on wellness, rehabilitation, and recovery programs, ensuring participants can access mental health services, physical therapy, and holistic resources. The foundation prioritizes those facing emotional and physical challenges, empowering them to overcome barriers and improve their quality of life through customized, evidence-based support.

The Waste Management Charitable Contributions Program supports initiatives that enhance environmental stewardship, sustainability education, and community vitality. With a commitment to civic pride and economic development, the program prioritizes organizations that address local needs and promote sustainable practices. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations that focus on public purposes, while ineligible requests include funding for operating costs and individual fundraising events. This initiative fosters a collaborative approach to community betterment.

The Stimulating Hematology Investigation: New Endeavors (SHINE) program aims to enhance nonmalignant hematology research aligned with the goals of the NIDDK, NIA, and NHLBI. It invites R01 grant applications focused on innovative and early translational hematology topics, fostering growth in this critical research area. Key deadlines for applications span from February 2025 to October 2027, allowing for both standard and renewal submissions.

The Land Conservation for Clean Water and Healthy Ecosystems grant aims to acquire land or conservation easements in the Lake Champlain Basin. With a funding pool of up to $4 million, eligible projects must prioritize clean water and healthy ecosystems while considering public access as a co-benefit. Supported by the U.S. EPA, this initiative encourages competitive proposals that enhance water quality and habitat for native species.

About City Market, Onion River Co-op

City Market, Onion River Co-op, is a community-owned food cooperative with two locations in beautiful Burlington, Vermont. We offer a large selection of local, organic, and conventional foods, and thousands of Vermont-made products.

The Co-op is dedicated to supporting the local economy and strengthening the local food system. We work with over 400 independent Vermont farmers, producers, and Vermont-owned businesses to feature the widest selection of local products we can. We regularly stock over 3,000 Local or Made in Vermont products, and Local and Made in Vermont products account for 40% of our sales. As a Member-owned cooperative, we are accountable to our Members.

Seedling Grants

What Are Seedling Grants?

Through our Co-op Seedling Grant program, City Market grants funding to projects from Vermont non-profit organizations whose work strengthens our local food system. This program is currently funded through our Rally for Change program.

Seedling Grant History

During profitable years, City Market Members receive patronage checks based on their spending as a form of profit-sharing. According to City Market’s By-Laws, any Patronage Refunds that are not cashed within 90 days are donated to organizations supporting our local food system, as directed by our Board. In 2014, City Market created a new program to offer grants through our uncashed Patronage Refund checks – our Seedling Grant Program! Since 2018, this program has been funded through Rally for Change as the Co-op works toward a return to profitability after our South End expansion.

Farm to Institution Market Development Grants

The Farm to Institution Market Development Grant (formerly Local Food Market Development Grant) is intended to support market development opportunities for local food producers, with a focus on Vermont institutional markets. Funding is provided to help improve local producer access to, and engagement with, schools, hospitals, colleges, correctional facilities, and other local institutions.

Eligible proposals will increase institutional market opportunity for at least one Vermont farm business and increase the amount of local food purchased and served in Vermont institutions. Competitive proposals will focus on collaboration, developing new sales relationships or deepening existing sales relationships, and values-based procurement for institutions serving meals to Vermont residents. Competitive proposals will demonstrate high likelihood of long-term, sustained partnership between Vermont farms and Vermont institutions. 

Examples of institutional markets:

• Colleges and universities  
• Schools  
• Early childhood education facilities
• Correctional facilities  
• Nursing homes  
• Hospitals and healthcare providers

A total of $30,000 is available through this competitive funding opportunity. The minimum award for this grant program is $10,000 and the maximum award is $30,000. Each successful grantee will have two years from the signing of their grant agreement to expend their grant funds and submit all required deliverables. All applicants must demonstrate 25% of the total grant award in matching funds; the matching funds requirement can be met with cash, in-kind, or a combination of both.

The Vermont Farmland Conservation Program is focused on retaining the state’s quality agricultural land base in strong farming regions of the state. By focusing on conserving contiguous blocks of farmland in traditional farming communities, VHCB’s Farmland Conservation Program helps to ensure that farms are not isolated by residential development and communities can continue to support a healthy range of businesses that serve and rely on neighboring farms.

About VHCB

Our Mission

VHCB invests in the construction of affordable housing and conservation strategies that work together to ensure equity, resilience, and vitality for Vermont communities in perpetuity.

Business Plan Implementation Grants

When funding is available, Farm & Forest Viability Implementation Grants are available on a competitive basis to businesses that have completed an up-to-date business plan or transfer plan through the Vermont Farm & Forest Viability Program to help implement specific goals of the business plans created through the program.

Overview & Eligibility

The Vermont Farm & Forest Viability Program is pleased to announce that grants of $1,000 to $8,000 are available on a competitive basis to Viability Program clients who participated in the program in 2024 or 2025. A completed business or transfer plan is required in order to apply. Applications are due Friday, May 1st, 2026, and decisions will be made in June 2026.

Eligible projects include, but are not limited to, business infrastructure construction, equipment, machinery upgrades, and energy efficiency projects that help a business meet business goals determined through their planning work. Funded projects will be closely aligned with goals as outlined in applicants’ business or transfer plans.

The Dunkin’ Prom Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to bring joy to teenage patients unable to attend their own prom due to illness. By funding hospitals to host prom-like events, the program ensures these patients experience this significant milestone. Grants typically range from $20,000 to $50,000, supporting the creation of memorable events with themes, food, entertainment, and formal wear for the teens, making a positive impact in their lives.

About NCRC

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) is a nationwide network of nearly 800 organizations and champions working for a Just Economy, where all Americans can build wealth and provide for their families with stability and dignity.

Our vision: To solve America’s historic racial and socio-economic wealth, income and opportunity divides. This vision is the foundation of the Just Economy Pledge.

NCRC Field Empowerment Fund (FEF) - Housing Counseling Services

The Field Empowerment Fund (FEF) empowers NCRC network members to level up established service lines.

The Housing Counseling Services series within FEF supports HUD-approved housing counseling agencies in driving homeownership, such as through pre-purchase counseling. In addition, the program builds agency knowledge on heirs’ property challenges to better equip first-time and low-income homebuying households with the know-how to retain intergenerational wealth.

In doing so, FEF-HCS aims to help underserved families begin their homeownership journey, with an additional goal of ensuring foresight into the long-term future of their home purchase.

The FEF-HCS series is funded in partnership with Key Bank and HSBC, and targets communities within the Key Bank and HSBC branch footprints.

Through these partnerships, $2.5 million in Key Bank geographies and $1.5 million in HSBC geographies has been allocated for the subgrants for direct-to-client housing counseling services that will be awarded in three rounds in the FEF-HCS track.

Funding Support

Awardee agencies will receive subgrants to support their housing counseling services to clients.

Knowledge Building

Awardee agencies will attend a training session on heirs’ property challenges and best practices, hosted by NCRC National Training Academy. Bolstering counselor knowledge on this topic will ensure that your agency is not only serving clients in their personal wealth-building journey now, but also helping them preserve that wealth in generations to come.

Native Tree Nursery RFP

The Patrick Leahy Lake Champlain Basin Program (“LCBP”), in coordination with the New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission (“NEIWPCC”), is pleased to announce a Request for Proposals (RFP) for projects that will directly support the Healthy Ecosystems goals of Opportunities for Action: An Evolving Plan for the Future of the Lake Champlain Basin by supporting organizations situated in the United States that have the ability to sell or grow native trees and shrubs for habitat conservation planting projects in the Lake Champlain Basin. The intent of this funding opportunity is to measurably enhance the native plant supply available to local organizations for habitat conservation projects that benefit Lake Champlain.

Awarded funding may be used for infrastructure investments and to support workforce development initiatives needed to build or grow tree nursery capacity and reduce the cost of stems for conservation planting projects located in the Lake Champlain basin.

Applicants must demonstrate or provide a viable business plan and describe how costs to local non-profits purchasing the native plants will remain stable or be reduced or eliminated through use of this funding. Approximately $1,000,000 in funding is available to support awarded projects. Grants of up to $500,000 will be awarded. One proposal may be submitted per eligible organization or entity. LCBP anticipates granting multiple awards from this RFP.

This grant opportunity is supported by funds awarded to NEIWPCC by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency via the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act on behalf of the Lake Champlain Basin Program. Proposals should offer a scope that supports work in the U.S. portion of the Lake Champlain Basin. Partial funding of total application requests may be awarded if agreeable to the applicant. All awards are subject to funding availability.

The ReFED Catalytic Grant Fund, managed by Refed Inc., supports innovative solutions to minimize food waste and reduce methane emissions, a cost-effective strategy for climate action. This fund prioritizes initiatives that enhance food recycling and improve supply chain efficiency in the beef and dairy sectors. By focusing on proven methods, the grant aims to accelerate impactful changes in the food system, ultimately fostering sustainable practices and collaborative efforts to combat food waste.

The Working Lands Enterprise Initiative offers competitive grants to support Vermont's forest, farm, and food businesses, alongside producer associations. With $1 million available in FY 2025, applications will open in fall and winter, with awards announced in spring 2025. The Service Provider & Producer Association Grant combines former separate grants into one, offering $10,000-$75,000 for various projects without a match requirement, emphasizing support for Vermont's working landscape.

The Strategic Alliance Matching Grant - Division II offers financial support to enhance ethnic minority and gender representation in mid- to senior-level athletics administration roles across NCAA Division II institutions. With an annual budget of $860,000, the grant aims to fund up to 20 schools and conferences each year. Eligible applicants must be active Division II members and are encouraged to collaborate with their human resources departments during the proposal process, ensuring compliance with grant requirements.