Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Vermont

The Ai2 Predoctoral Young Investigators Program offers predoctoral candidates a unique opportunity to engage in advanced research through collaboration with experienced mentors. Participants can co-author papers and benefit from a generous travel budget, along with support for visa acquisition. This program is designed for candidates preparing to enter a PhD program in the next 1-2 years, providing essential resources and experiences to facilitate their academic journey.

About BlackRock

We’re a global asset manager and technology provider dedicated to helping more and more people experience financial well-being. We help millions of people invest to build savings that serve them throughout their lives. The BlackRock Foundation which funds and partners with organizations that strengthen financial security for more people,

BlackRock Future Builders

BlackRock Future Builders is a $100 million philanthropic initiative funded by The BlackRock Foundation to expand economic opportunity and power the next generation of America’s skilled trades workers. Through this Request for Proposals (RFP) process, The Foundation seeks to support U.S. nonprofit organizations (i.e., registered 501(c)3 organizations) delivering or supporting high‑quality skilled trades training.

This competitive grant opportunity operates in parallel to other BlackRock Future Builders partnerships and is intended to surface additional, regionally grounded solutions across the skilled trades ecosystem. Organizations may propose direct worker training programs or capacity‑building efforts that enable systems to function more effectively and at greater scale. This first round RFP will be administered by Jobs for the Future (JFF), a national nonprofit that transforms U.S. education and workforce systems.

Focus Areas and Solutions

Applicants may propose worker training or capacity‑building solutions aligned to skilled trades workforce development.

• Worker training interventions may include direct service proposals such as pre-apprenticeship or career navigation programs, workforce training programs, apprenticeship programs, or wraparound participant supports that are supportive of training persistence and completion.
• Capacity-building interventions are organizational and system-focused, rather than in direct service of participants, and may include, but are not limited to, proposals such as ecosystem-building, demonstration projects, technology or tool adoptions, or research, among others.

The Silvio O. Conte Digestive Diseases Research Core Centers (DDRCCs) program invites applications to enhance communication and collaboration among researchers in digestive and liver diseases. Funded by the NIDDK, DDRCCs focus on shared resources that foster productivity and innovative research ideas. Each center must revolve around a central theme aligned with the NIDDK's mission, ensuring effective research support while avoiding overlap with other NIH Institutes' funding areas.

The EPSCoR Research Infrastructure Improvement (RII): EPSCoR Research Fellows program, funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), aims to enhance research capacity and workforce development in STEM. This initiative fosters collaborations between underrepresented researchers and leading institutions, providing essential resources and support. With two tracks available—one focusing on NSF and the other on NASA—this program uniquely positions Fellows to leverage transformative research experiences and contribute to sustainable advancements in their respective fields.

The SHAPE America Major of the Year Award recognizes exemplary undergraduate students in health, physical education, recreation, and dance. This prestigious accolade aims to highlight nominees who demonstrate academic excellence and commitment to service within their communities. Faculty members from colleges and universities are encouraged to nominate one outstanding student per major, ensuring that the next generation of health educators is celebrated for their achievements and contributions to the field.

The Ruth Abernathy Presidential Scholarship is awarded annually by SHAPE America to honor outstanding undergraduate and graduate students in health and physical education. Established in 1995, this scholarship supports three undergraduate and two graduate recipients. Candidates must be SHAPE America members, majoring in relevant fields, and demonstrate academic excellence and leadership. In addition to financial support, recipients receive a three-year membership to SHAPE America, fostering a commitment to health education and physical activity.

The CAPTRUST Community Foundation provides Crisis Grants to support nonprofit organizations aiding families impacted by natural disasters or emergencies. By dedicating over 10% of its annual budget for crisis assistance, the foundation ensures that funds directly benefit those in need. Grants can be requested up to $5,000 to help rebuild lives during challenging times, reflecting the foundation's commitment to integrity and support for children and families in crisis.

AGC Education and Research Foundation

Thanks to visionary volunteer leadership of AGC industry leaders, the AGC Education and Research Foundation, founded in 1968, has for 50 years made good on its commitment to support the future of our industry through its robust scholarship program and innovative projects.

Workforce Development Scholarship

In 2015, the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) and its Build Your Future initiative made a generous contribution to help fund the first Workforce Development scholarships for students pursuing craft and technical programs, allowing 19 applicants to receive the inaugural scholarships. Scholarships are $1,000 per year, renewable for up to two years.

This is the application for the Workforce Development Scholarship. This scholarship is for students pursuing associate degrees, technical training or certificates to enter the construction industry. Please review the Criteria Page to ensure you qualify for the Workforce Development Scholarship. Scholarships are $1,000 per year, renewable for up to two years. If you are attending a four year university and intend to earn a Bachelor's degree please make sure to apply for our Undergraduate Scholarship application.

The Justamere Foundation focuses on removing barriers to self-sufficiency by supporting innovative community programs. They prioritize four key areas: trade education, veterans resources, childhood literacy, and arts education. By providing grants and non-traditional scholarships, the foundation aims to empower individuals and create lasting change. Their mission is to connect underserved communities with essential resources, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

The Health Careers Scholarship of Sonoma County, administered by 10,000 Degrees, supports students pursuing careers in medicine, nursing, or allied health fields. Established in 2001, it is open to undergraduate and graduate students who are residents of Sonoma County or graduated from its high schools. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence with a minimum 3.0 GPA and provide two letters of recommendation, excluding relatives. This scholarship is a vital resource for aspiring healthcare professionals in the community.

The Environmental Grantmaking Program at the Educational Foundation of America (EFA) aims to support projects that facilitate a transition to a net-zero electricity system. Focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the program emphasizes initiatives that enhance access to affordable clean energy, accelerate regional transitions, and strengthen financial investment in electric utilities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)3 public charities, academic institutions, and government entities committed to sustainable energy solutions.

Taos Diplomats Scholarship

The Taos Diplomats Scholarship was first established in 2015 by Peter Winter (Taos High ’04) and Dori Winter, who have served as Foreign Service Officers with the U.S. Department of State. During college at the University of Southern California, Peter studied International Relations and Mandarin Chinese, later studying abroad in Beijing, China. Dori, a graduate of the University of South Carolina and Texas A&M University, studied in China and France. Both have represented the United States government at embassies and consulates around the world, including assignments in Northern Ireland, Egypt, Pakistan, China, Israel, and Saudi Arabia.

This award is open to graduating High School Seniors from Taos County (GPA of 3.0 or above) who are interested in pursuing a degree in fields such as international affairs, political science, public and government policy, global communications, international education and development, global health, international business, and foreign languages or studying abroad. This scholarship is open to those applying to 4 year colleges and universities as well as 2 year vocational/trade schools. The award ranges from $250.00 to $1,000.00 and is paid directly to the student’s account at the college or university attended.

The VIA Art Fund provides Artistic Production Grants to support innovative artistic commissions for public spaces. These grants, ranging from $25,000 to $100,000, are awarded twice a year to artists and organizations that exemplify artistic excellence and public engagement. Projects must have a confirmed exhibition venue, ensuring artworks reach diverse audiences and foster meaningful community experiences beyond traditional gallery settings.

The Kenneth Rainin Foundation seeks to promote innovative research in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) by encouraging diverse perspectives from early career investigators and those underrepresented in science. The Innovator Awards do not require preliminary data and are evaluated based on the potential for innovation and scientific merit. Eligible researchers must hold advanced degrees and can apply for funding through their home institutions, fostering groundbreaking ideas that can transform IBD treatment and prevention.

The Audrey L. Wright Scholarship, offered by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, supports undergraduate students who are long-term residents of Kent County. This scholarship is aimed at those pursuing education or language studies and requires a minimum GPA of 3.0. By removing barriers to academic success, it empowers local students to achieve their educational ambitions and contributes to a thriving and inclusive community in West Michigan.

Who We Are

Buiding a stronger, More Vibrant Community

For over 70 years, the Scranton Area Community Foundation has served Northeastern Pennsylvania as a steward of charitable resources, a grantmaker, and a catalyst for positive change. Guided by our core values of collaboration, trust, integrity, innovation, and inclusivity, we work to ensure that our communities thrive with opportunities for all.

This scholarship is awarded to a student matriculating at a college, university, or business in the year of the scholarship.

The ALA Spectrum Scholarship Program offers a one-time $5,000 scholarship to support diverse students pursuing graduate education in library and information studies. Recipients must enroll in an accredited program by fall, receiving funds in two installments. This initiative, supported by the American Library Association, enhances opportunities for over 800 past scholars through mentoring, networking, and professional development, fostering leadership within the library profession across North America.

The Park Foundation Grants for the Environment focus on ensuring clean and accessible drinking water while opposing shale gas extraction and infrastructure expansion. They fund diverse initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable practices and policies, particularly within New York State. The Foundation supports advocacy, organizing, and corporate responsibility efforts that align with their mission to foster a just and sustainable environment, empowering communities to protect their natural resources.

The Tribal Solar Accelerator Fund (TSAF) empowers tribal communities across the U.S. by promoting renewable energy projects and workforce development. Launched by GRID Alternatives, TSAF provides critical funding for solar initiatives, enhancing energy sovereignty and resilience. Since its inception, TSAF has integrated community participation into its projects, ensuring that tribes can access sustainable energy solutions. By prioritizing education and equity, TSAF supports a transition to a clean energy economy, aiming for a sustainable future for generations to come.

OneRural provides essential technical assistance to rural organizations, fostering the development of affordable housing and community initiatives. This program offers tailored support, helping organizations enhance their operational capabilities and drive impactful change. By accessing expert resources and training, participants can effectively navigate challenges, improve program outcomes, and strengthen community resilience. This initiative targets nonprofits and tribal entities, ensuring that rural communities receive the guidance needed for sustainable growth and development.

The Louis N. Cassett Foundation provides grants to support a variety of charitable endeavors, particularly focusing on organizations in the Philadelphia and South Florida areas. As a private foundation operating under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, it empowers tax-exempt organizations to apply for funding. The Foundation does not impose religious affiliation requirements on recipients, ensuring that support is inclusive and aimed at a broad range of charitable, cultural, and educational projects.

The Herman J. and Helen D. Wyngarden Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports students from Northern Ottawa County or local high schools. Established in memory of dedicated educators, this scholarship encourages academic advancement beyond high school. Eligible applicants should provide transcripts and relevant documents, with preference given to those pursuing economics or medicine. This competitive scholarship aims to honor the legacy of the Wyngardens while empowering future leaders.

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.

The Community Traffic Safety Grants, initiated by the Road to Zero Coalition, aim to eliminate traffic fatalities by 2050 through innovative, evidence-based approaches. The program invites proposals from Road to Zero Coalition members, particularly non-profits and government entities, to implement effective countermeasures that enhance traffic safety and address mobility disparities. Projects should be replicable and scalable, demonstrating measurable outcomes and contributing to a positive safety culture on U.S. roads.

The Sidney R. Baer, Jr. Foundation focuses on improving the lives of individuals with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder through education grants. By funding programs that enhance educational opportunities, the foundation aims to reduce isolation and promote understanding. Grants are awarded to qualified organizations that prioritize mental health initiatives, ensuring that those affected have access to the resources and support necessary for a better quality of life. The foundation's mission is rooted in the belief that education can be transformative for those facing mental health challenges.

The AES Hawaiʻi Foundation Grant supports communities near AES Hawaiʻi’s renewable energy projects, focusing on social justice, education, environmental stewardship, and community health. Preference is given to nonprofit organizations in these areas, but statewide entities may also apply. Successful projects should align with the Foundation’s impact pillars, demonstrate measurable community benefits, and address unmet needs, ensuring long-term positive effects on the local community.

The Prof. Rahamimoff Travel Grants for Young Scientists support PhD students in research requiring expertise unavailable in their home countries. Named after renowned scientist Prof. Rami Rahamimoff, the grants fund trips to higher education or research facilities in the U.S. or Israel, lasting up to two months. Eligible applicants must be U.S. or Israeli citizens conducting supervised research at accredited institutions. This program honors Prof. Rahamimoff's legacy in science and medicine.