Best Youth Sports Grants in Vermont

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.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations improving health, education, safety, or children’s wellbeing in Vermont can apply for Encova Foundation of West Virginia grants supporting community and family programs. Youth-serving groups, including those with sports or wellness components, may be especially competitive, particularly when Encova associates are actively involved as board members or volunteers.

The ASHRAE Region I Setty Family Foundation Scholarship offers a one-year award for undergraduate mechanical or architectural engineering students attending institutions in ASHRAE Region I or those who graduated from high schools in the area. Eligible candidates must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and meet specific program criteria, promoting excellence in HVAC&R education. This scholarship supports future leaders in the field, ensuring a sustainable built environment.

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 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.

Lake Champlain Basin Program

Mission

The Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP) coordinates and funds efforts that benefit the Lake Champlain Basin’s water quality, fisheries, wetlands, wildlife, recreation, and cultural resources, in partnership with government agencies from New York, Vermont, and Québec, private organizations, local communities, and individuals.

Artist-in-Residence Programs

New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission (“NEIWPCC”), is pleased to announce a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Artist-in-Residence (AiR) programs in the Lake Champlain Basin. The aim of this process is to invite a wide range of innovative and effective projects and further the goals of Opportunities for Action: An Evolving Plan for the Future of the Lake Champlain Basin. The intent of this funding opportunity is to support development of sustainable Artist-in-Residence programs that will recruit artists to obtain and use scientific data, cultural trends, or historical facts to increase interpretation of natural resources within the Lake Champlain basin.

The George I. Alden Trust offers a Higher Education Grant aimed at supporting independent colleges and universities in New England, New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. The Trust prioritizes capital needs to enhance the educational experience, approving grants up to $100,000 for first-time applicants. Eligible institutions must have a minimum of 1,000 full-time undergraduate students and demonstrate a commitment to educational excellence and effective administration.

About VHFA

Vermont Housing Finance Agency (VHFA) was established in 1974 to finance and promote affordable, safe and decent housing opportunities for low- and moderate-income Vermonters. Each U.S. state has a housing finance agency.

Since its inception, Vermont HFA has helped 31,000 primarily first-time home buyers and their families purchase homes. VHFA provides financing, development and management support, subsidy administration, and tax credits for approximately 9,600 affordable apartments statewide.   

First-Generation Homebuyer Assistance

First-generation homebuyers may be entitled to VHFA grants, which can be used to pay down payments and closing costs. 

These first-time home buyer programs Vermont will remain available until they are used up on a first-come-first-served basis. The funds can be combined with the loan received from the ASSIST program.

$15,000 grant for down payment and closing costs

May be combined with VHFA ASSIST and down payment assistance from other sources

Borrowers and non-borrowing spouses must have NEVER owned a home before and have less than $20,000 combined liquid assets

At least one person taking title must EITHER: have been placed in foster care at some point in their life, OR have parents or legal guardians who never owned or lost their home to foreclosure and have not owned again

Available exclusively with VHFA MOVE, MOVE MCC, or ADVANTAGE. Borrowers and non-borrowing spouses must meet eligibility requirements for selected VHFA Program. Other credit and property eligibility requirements apply. To pre-qualify and apply contact a VHFA Participating Lender!

Watersheds United Vermont 

Watersheds United Vermont (WUV) is a state-wide network of local groups dedicated to the health of their home watersheds.

WUV's mission is to empower community-based watershed groups in all parts of the state to protect and restore Vermont’s waters.

Watershed Groups are broadly defined as a community-based organization working with individuals and communities in their local watersheds to protect and improve water quality, habitat, and flood resilience and to build social and ecological connections with Vermont’s waters. Watershed organizations work with all watershed constituents and do not represent a specific constituency or interest group. 

Enhancement Project Development Grant (EPDG)

Overview

Watersheds United Vermont (WUV) is administering funding under the Enhancement Project Development Grant (EPDG) program, which will support the project development of priority water quality enhancement projects from July 2026 through June 2028. WUV seeks proposals for the development of new enhancement projects and for the development efforts needed between the design and implementation phases of enhancement projects.

The EPDG program is part of WUV’s larger Enhancement Development, Design and Implementation Block Grant (EDDIBG) through the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation’s (VT DEC) Clean Water Initiative Program (CWIP). WUV has separated out the Project Development portion of this grant as the work completed under project development is significantly different from the work completed under design and implementation.

No match is required under this program. Please note that this funding can be used as match/leverage for other funding sources.

The Lintilhac Foundation Grant aims to foster a stronger, healthier Vermont by supporting nonprofit organizations in various core areas such as clean energy, water quality, forest health, and sustainable outdoor recreation. With a legacy of over 50 years, the foundation emphasizes the importance of engaging local communities to address climate change, preserve biodiversity, and secure healthy food systems, while upholding democratic values and environmental science. This holistic approach ensures that both human and natural communities thrive together.

The Hardman Fund for North Adams Grant supports projects that enrich the lives of residents in North Adams, Clarksburg, Florida, and Stamford, MA. Established by the Hardman families, it focuses on arts, historic preservation, health, education, and social services. The Fund prioritizes initiatives addressing emergency needs and encourages collaborations among organizations. Grants vary based on available funding and project significance, aiming to uplift communities facing economic challenges.

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 Clean Water and Healthy Ecosystems Research Projects, funded by the Lake Champlain Basin Program, aim to enhance water quality and ecological health in the Lake Champlain Basin. These grants support research initiatives aligned with the Opportunities for Action management plan, facilitating community-driven stewardship. Projects may include implementation studies or pilot programs to assess the efficacy of conservation efforts. The program emphasizes collaboration among diverse stakeholders to ensure sustainable management of the basin's natural resources.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW) offers grants for schools to implement the PLTW Computer Science program from 2025 to 2028. Schools must provide at least one PLTW course in the first year and two courses in the second year. The total grant is $14,000, covering participation fees and training costs. Eligible institutions include public, private, and charter schools located in the U.S., with special encouragement for those serving low-income or minority-majority populations.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant opportunity for schools to implement the PLTW Engineering program for the 2025-2026 academic year and beyond. Eligible institutions include public, private, and charter schools located in the US. Grant recipients will receive funding to cover participation fees and training costs. Total funding amounts to $16,000, distributed over three years. Schools are encouraged to create pathways for students in engineering through this initiative.

The Battlefield Preservation Fund Grant aims to support initiatives that preserve battlefields and related historic sites. This funding encourages planning and educational efforts, particularly those that engage new audiences in preservation activities. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofits in specified states. Grants can be used for staff support, consultant fees, and educational materials. Applicants must provide a one-to-one match for funding, ensuring strong community involvement in preservation efforts.

The Preschool Development Grant Birth Through Five (PDG B-5) SMART Grant aims to enhance early care and education systems in the U.S. by supporting targeted investments in technology and data analytics. This initiative, led by the Administration for Children and Families, encourages states to improve program quality, family choice, and data-driven decision-making for children from birth to five years old. The funding is designed to create measurable outcomes and strengthen coordination within the mixed-delivery system.

The Riparian Buffer Block Grant, offered by the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation, supports organizations in establishing native riparian woody buffers. This initiative aims to enhance the ecological integrity of Vermont's waterways by providing funding for the implementation of forested buffers along rivers and streams. Projects must maintain a minimum buffer width of 35 feet and a planting density of 300 stems per acre, promoting sustainable land and water management practices.

The IDeA Networks of Biomedical Research Excellence (INBRE) program aims to enhance biomedical research capacity in underfunded states by fostering collaborations among research institutions. By supporting faculty research, mentoring, and student involvement, INBREs create pathways for undergraduate students to enter biomedical careers. This initiative not only promotes institutional partnerships but also strengthens research infrastructure, ultimately contributing to a more robust scientific community in IDeA states.

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 TD Charitable Foundation's Capacity Building Fund empowers nonprofit organizations by providing grants aimed at enhancing their operational capabilities. Established in 2002, this initiative focuses on funding projects that promote job training, arts, and housing assistance, particularly for historically underserved communities. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, the foundation seeks to support organizations that align with its TD Ready Commitment drivers, ensuring impactful and sustainable community development.

The Enhancement Design and Implementation Block Grant, administered by Watersheds United Vermont (WUV), supports critical water quality enhancement projects. Proposals for preliminary and final designs, as well as implementation, are welcome. This initiative is funded by the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation’s Clean Water Initiative Program. No match is required, although voluntary leverage is appreciated for larger projects, allowing the funding to be utilized as match for other sources.

The Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI) by the Vermont Housing & Conservation Board aims to enhance the capacity of rural communities and working lands businesses to secure federal funding. Rather than direct project funding, REDI assists in hiring grant writers, conducting feasibility studies, and developing fundraising strategies. Priority areas include community infrastructure, outdoor recreation, and historic preservation, ultimately fostering sustainable economic development in communities with populations under 5,000.

The Farmland Retirement Program, funded by the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board, aims to buy out farms that negatively impact water quality. Established to preserve Vermont’s rural character, the program facilitates the transition of agricultural land to conservation uses, ensuring long-term environmental benefits. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and municipalities that demonstrate lasting impacts on the community. Funding may cover acquisition costs and associated expenses, supporting restoration efforts that contribute to Vermont's ecological health.

About Us

In the mid-1980s, a rapid rise in housing prices and an increase in the pace of development threatened the rural character and historic settlement patterns of Vermont. As a result, in 1986, a coalition of affordable housing, conservation, and historic preservation advocates approached the state legislature with a plan to form a unique agency that would review and fund projects to address a range of community needs. In response, the Legislature passed the Vermont Housing and Conservation Trust Fund Act in 1987.

The newly created Vermont Housing and Conservation Board, or VHCB, was charged with a dual goal mission:

to create permanently affordable housing and conserve and protect Vermont’s agricultural, forest, recreational, and natural lands, as well as historic properties. Since our founding, we have remained true to this mission by supporting projects that benefit Vermont communities in perpetuity, guided by our core values: equity and access, affordability and economic vitality, environmental sustainability and resilience, and quality of life.

Donated Easement Funding Program

The Donated Easement Funding Program provides grants to help cover transaction and stewardship costs for conservation easements donated by willing landowners. The program is designed to make voluntary land conservation more accessible and affordable by reducing financial barriers that often prevent donated projects from moving forward. 

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 California Casualty Music & Arts Grant supports K-12 public schools facing budget cuts that threaten their music and arts programs. Eligible applicants, who must be active employees of public K-12 schools and members of specified educator associations, can request grants of $250 for music or arts needs. This initiative aims to enhance creative education across the states, excluding AK, HI, MA, MI, NY, and WI. Applications received by July 15 will be notified by November 30.