Funding Opportunities Archive - CCRPC

Funding Opportunities Archive - CCRPC
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Funding Opportunities
The CCRPC Funding Opportunities database is a near complete list of funding opportunities available to municipalities, non-profits, and businesses for planning and infrastructure-related projects.  The list is updated by CCRPC staff annually every July.  Users may filter the database by category, funding agency, and eligible organizations.
Users are encouraged to click on the link for each funding opportunity to ensure access to the most up-to-date information available about each program.
Questions about all funding opportunities should be directed to the respective funding agency. All other questions about the database can be directed to Taylor Newton (
tnewton@ccrpcvt.org
).
3-Acre Permit Obtainment Assistance Program
For properties subject to the
3-acre requirement
of the Vermont Stormwater Permit 3-9050, the Permit Obtainment Assistance (POA) program provides financial assistance to eligible sites seeking to obtain Three-Acre Permit coverage.
Funding Agency or Organization
ANR - Vermont Agency of Natural Resources
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Up to $49,999
Deadline
October 31, 2024
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, School, State
Project Categories
Infrastructure, Planning, Water Quality
AARP Community Challenge
The AARP Community Challenge grant program is part of the nationwide
AARP Livable Communities initiative
that helps communities become great places to live for residents of all ages. The program is intended to help communities make immediate improvements and jump-start long-term progress in support of residents of all ages. Funding priorities are established yearly, but generally relate to smart growth, sustainable transportation, placemaking, equity and civic engagement, community health, and affordability. Successful applications support permanent physical improvements in the community, temporary demonstrations that lead to long-term change, or new / innovative programming or services. Inquiries can be sent to
CommunityChallenge@AARP.org
Funding Agency or Organization
AARP
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Flagship: Variable, $500-$50,000
Capacity-Building: $2,500 plus technical assistance
Demonstration: $10,000-$50,000
Deadline
March
Competitive?
Yes
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC
Project Categories
Economic Development, Housing, Placemaking, Planning, Transportation
Adaptive Use Bridge Program
Rehabilitation of historic metal truss bridges for adaptive re-use (bike/ped).
Funding Agency or Organization
VTrans - Vermont Agency of Transportation
Local Match Requirement
20%
Award Amount
None
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Historic Preservation, Transportation
Agricultural Energy Loan Program
This program, administered by VEDA's agricultural loan organization, the Vermont Agricultural Credit Corporation (VACC), helps Vermont agriculture- and forest product-based businesses finance qualifying renewable energy generation or energy efficiency improvement projects, and adopt technologies that enhance or support the development and implementation of renewable energy or energy efficiency, or both.
Funding Agency or Organization
VEDA - Vermont Economic Development Authority
Local Match Requirement
Varies - see loan terms
Award Amount
No maximum
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Non-profit
Project Categories
Buildings, Energy, Infrastructure
Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Tax Credit
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) established the federal Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit, which can be credited towards federal income taxes. Qualified fueling equipment must be installed on or after January 1, 2023, and the census tract in which the property is located must meet one the following requirements:
A census tract is not in an
urban area
; or
A population census tract where the poverty rate is at least 20%; or
A metropolitan and non-metropolitan area census tract where the median family income is less than 80% of the state median family income level.
Funding Agency or Organization
IRS - US Internal Revenue Service
Local Match Requirement
70%
Award Amount
Lesser of 30% of project cost or
$30,000 if installed prior to 12/31/2022
$100,000 if installed after 1/1/2023
Deadline
Tax filing deadline
Credit authorized until 12/31/2032
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Electric Utility
Project Categories
Buildings, Energy, Infrastructure, Transportation
Animating Infrastructure
Functional components of infrastructure—such as sidewalks, railings, benches, walls, signs, stairs, and tree grates in the built and/or natural environment—have the potential for artistic enhancement that creates unique places where people want to live, work, visit, and play. Animating Infrastructure Grants support community projects that integrate art with infrastructure improvements. Through this program, the Council strives to demonstrate the positive impact of art in helping communities meet goals of livability, walkability, safety, economic vitality, and community vibrancy, and to support the creation of unique infrastructure projects where function and art are one and the same.
The Council’s definition of infrastructure is broad. It includes community facilities and services such as buildings, trails, water or sewer systems, roads, power systems, parks, and more.
Funding Agency or Organization
Vermont Arts Council
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Planning / Design - $1,000 - $5,000 Implementation - $1,000 - $15,000
Deadline
June
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Art, Economic Development, Infrastructure, Placemaking
Aquatic Nuisance Control Grants
Financial assistance to municipalities and agencies of the state for aquatic invasive and nuisance species management programs.
Funding Agency or Organization
ANR - Vermont Agency of Natural Resources
Local Match Requirement
25% - cash or -in-kind
Award Amount
Varies - $450,00 total in 2022
Deadline
June
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Conservation, Water Quality
Assistance to Firefighters Grants
The primary goal of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) is to meet the firefighting and emergency response needs of fire departments and non-affiliated emergency medical service organizations.
Since 2001, AFG has helped firefighters and other first responders obtain critically needed equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training and other resources necessary for protecting the public and emergency personnel from fire and related hazards.
Funding Agency or Organization
FEMA - Federal Emergency Management Agency
Local Match Requirement
15%
Award Amount
Maximum varies by jurisdiction, up to $2.91 million
Deadline
December
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Emergency Management, Public Safety
AVCC Tiny Grants
The Association of Vermont Conservation Commissions (AVCC) provides small grants to its members to assist local committees/groups to become Conservation Commissions, increase the functioning capacity of existing Conservation Commissions, and provide seed money and/or matching funds for specific projects in the broad categories of land conservation, education and outreach, stewardship and management, and planning.
Funding Agency or Organization
AVCC - Association of Vermont Conservation Commissions
Local Match Requirement
Existing AVCC Members - None (Membership - $50 organizational, $20 individual)
Award Amount
Up to $800
Deadline
April
Competitive?
Yes
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Conservation, Planning, Water Quality
Barn Preservation Grants
Rehabilitate the historic agricultural buildings that are a symbol of Vermont's rural landscape.
Funding Agency or Organization
ACCD - Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development
Local Match Requirement
50%
Award Amount
Min - $1,000 Max - $20,000
Deadline
December
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Agriculture, Buildings, Economic Development, Historic Preservation, Placemaking
Better Connections Program
Grants for planning that align land use planning and community revitalization with transportation investments.
Chittenden County municipalities are NOT eligible for this program - instead, please
about a
UPWP application
for this type of project
Funding Agency or Organization
ACCD - Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development, VTrans - Vermont Agency of Transportation
Local Match Requirement
10% minimum - cash
Award Amount
Min - $35,000; Max - $67,500
Deadline
October
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Economic Development, Infrastructure, Planning, Transportation
Better Places Grant
Better Places is a non-competitive, community matching grant program empowering Vermonters to create inclusive and vibrant public places. The program provides one-on-one project coaching, local fundraising support (crowdfunding), and matching grants to make your community-led placemaking ideas happen. Projects must be located in, connected to, or in direct safe walking distance to a
state-designated downtowns, village centers, new town centers, or neighborhood development areas
Funding Agency or Organization
ACCD - Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development
Local Match Requirement
2:1 grant:match
Award Amount
$5,000-$40,000
Deadline
Rolling while funding lasts
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Art, Engagement, Infrastructure, Placemaking, Planning, Transportation
Better Roads Program
The Vermont Better Roads Program provides technical support and grant funding to municipalities to promote the use of erosion control and maintenance techniques that save money while protecting and enhancing water quality around the State.
Funding Agency or Organization
VTrans - Vermont Agency of Transportation
Local Match Requirement
20%
Award Amount
Varies by category from $8,000 to $60,000
Deadline
December
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Infrastructure, Transportation, Water Quality
Bicycle and Pedestrian Program
State matching grants for the scoping, design, and construction of bike and pedestrian facilities, sidewalks, bicycle lanes, crosswalks, shared-use paths, and lighting.
Funding Agency or Organization
VTrans - Vermont Agency of Transportation
Local Match Requirement
20% - scoping,
50% - state-funded small scale construction,
20% - construction
Award Amount
No min or max
Deadline
July
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Economic Development, Infrastructure, Placemaking, Transportation
Broadband Expansion Loan Program
Loans may be made for startup broadband projects and expansion of existing broadband networks. Eligible project costs include working capital, construction, and infrastructure / installation.
Funding Agency or Organization
VEDA - Vermont Economic Development Authority
Local Match Requirement
10% minimum
Award Amount
Max - $4 million
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Broadband and Telecommunications, Economic Development, Infrastructure
Brownfields Revitalization Fund
The BRF offers grants and loans for the remediation and productive reuse of sites that are currently abandoned or not fully utilized due to contamination. Funding from both federal and state sources is available to private developers, non-profits, and municipalities. Details can be found on the
program webpage
in addition to
10 V.S.A. § 6654
Funding Agency or Organization
ACCD - Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development
Local Match Requirement
10%
Award Amount
Assessment - $50,000 grants, $250,000 loans
Remediation - $200,000 grants, no cap for loans
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Brownfields, Buildings, Economic Development, Housing, Infrastructure
Brownfields Revolving Loan Fund Grants
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Brownfield Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) Grants provide funding for a grant recipient to capitalize a revolving loan fund and to provide loans and subgrants to carry out cleanup activities at brownfield sites. Through these grants, EPA strengthens the marketplace and encourages stakeholders to leverage resources to clean up and redevelop brownfields. When loans are repaid, the loan amount is returned to the fund and re-lent to other borrowers, providing an ongoing source of capital within a community. The performance period for an RLF grant is 5 years.
Funding Agency or Organization
EPA - US Environmental Protection Agency
Local Match Requirement
20%
Award Amount
Up to $1 million
Deadline
November / December
Competitive?
Yes
Eligible Organizations
EDD - Economic Development District, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Brownfields, Buildings, Economic Development, Historic Preservation, Public Health, Water Quality
Bruhn Historic Revitalization Grant
The Bruhn Historic Revitalization Grant program is supported by the Historic Preservation Fund administered by the National Park Service, Department of the Interior. The program supports the preservation and restoration of buildings and community gathering spaces of economic and social significance in rural communities with fewer than 7500 residents. The grants can be used toward structural repairs, roof replacement, window restoration, exterior work, restoration of significant interior finishes, and code improvements.
Funding Agency or Organization
PTV - Preservation Trust of Vermont
Local Match Requirement
Varies
Award Amount
$50,000 - $100,000
Deadline
Varies
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit, School
Project Categories
Buildings, Historic Preservation, Placemaking
BUILD (Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development)
Competitive basis for surface transportation infrastructure projects that will have a significant local or regional impact.
Funding Agency or Organization
USDOT - US Department of Transportation
Local Match Requirement
20%
Award Amount
Min - $5 million ($1 million in rural areas)
Max - $25 million
Deadline
February
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, State
Project Categories
Transportation
Build to Scale Program
US Economic Development Administration awards grants through the Build to Scale Program for activities designed to develop and support regional technology-based economic development initiatives that accelerate high quality job growth, create more economic opportunities, and support the future of the next generation of industry leading companies. Eligible organizations may be operating initiatives to unlock investment capital across a region or sector, operating programs to accelerate company growth, empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs, and/or enabling technology commercialization. There are two separate competitions: (1) the Venture Challenge and (2) the Capital Challenge.
Funding Agency or Organization
EDA - US Economic Development Administration
Local Match Requirement
50%
Award Amount
Max - $1.5 million
Deadline
June
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Economic Development
Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) Grant Program
The Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant program is an annual FEMA funding program for hazard mitigation. BRIC will support states, local communities, tribes and territories, as they undertake hazard mitigation projects to reduce the risk from natural hazards. The program generally funds analysis of alternatives, design, budget, scoping and benefit-cost analysis projects. BRIC is a new FEMA pre-disaster hazard mitigation program that will replace the Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) program.
Funding Agency or Organization
FEMA - Federal Emergency Management Agency, VEM - Vermont Emergency Management
Local Match Requirement
10% to 25%
Award Amount
$2 million total for Vermont
$1 million total for planning
Deadline
December / January
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC
Project Categories
Climate & Environmental Justice, Emergency Management, Infrastructure, Planning, Water Quality
Burlington Electric Vehicle Charger Rebate
Burlington Electric Department (BED) offers rebates and incentives for installation of electric vehicle (EV) charging equipment at homes and businesses in the City of Burlington.
Funding Agency or Organization
BED - Burlington Electric Department
Local Match Requirement
Varies
Award Amount
Single-unit homes: $900
Multi-unit homes: $1,200 for smart charger; $1,000 standard (plus bonuses)
Workplaces: Lesser of $2,000 or 75% of cost
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Buildings, Energy, Infrastructure, Transportation
Bus & Bus Facilities / Low or No Emission Vehicle Program
The Federal Transit Administration provides two programs for purchase, lease, replacement, and rehabilitation of transit buses, including technological changes or innovations to modify low or no emission vehicles or facilities.
The
Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities Competitive Program
makes federal resources available to states and direct recipients to replace, rehabilitate and purchase buses and related equipment and to construct bus-related facilities. The
Low or No Emission
competitive program provides funding to state and local governmental authorities for the purchase or lease of zero-emission and low-emission transit buses as well as acquisition, construction, and leasing of required supporting facilities. Applicants may submit to both programs for a low or no emissions project.
Funding Agency or Organization
USDOT - US Department of Transportation
Local Match Requirement
Vehicles: 10%; Equipment / Facilities: 15%
Award Amount
No minimum or maximum
Deadline
April
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, RPC, State
Project Categories
Buildings, Energy, Transportation
Calendar Year 2022 Disaster Water Grants Program
Calendar Year 2022 Disaster Water Grants help eligible communities pay expenses related to damages to rural water systems as a result of events (Presidentially Declared Disasters) that occurred between January 1, 2022, and December 31, 2022.  For the purposes of this program, the term “water” refers to all water resource infrastructure, including drinking water, wastewater, stormwater drainage, and solid waste facilities.
Eligibility Requirements Water, wastewater, storm-water, and solid waste systems
in rural areas with populations up to 35,000 are eligible for assistance if they were damaged by Presidentially declared disasters in calendar year 2022. Priority will be given to disadvantaged / distressed communities with populations of 5,500 or less, but all communities are encouraged to contact staff for additional information on eligibility.
The following Vermont counties were impacted by storms in 2022 that were declared a disaster: Chittenden, Essex, Franklin, Grand Isle, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Washington.
Eligible program activities include:
On-site technical assistance to support post- disaster mitigation and support emergency preparedness and recovery assistance.
Identifying and evaluating solutions to address disaster-impacted systems’ challenges.
Helping communities develop and prepare loan and grant applications (including the requisite predevelopment activities).
Delivering critical disaster and resilience training and resources to system personnel.
Through a grant from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Rural Community Assistance Partnership (RCAP) is providing free training and technical assistance (TA) services to rural communities that were susceptible to be impacted by federally declared disasters in calendar year 2022 (
). Any community in the counties listed above would be eligible for TA support.
Contact RCAP Solutions for more information on eligibility and available assistance.
Laurie Stevens, P.E.| Regional Director (VT/NH/ME)
lstevens@rcapsolutions.org
(978) 350-6601
John Kiernan | VT State
Managerjkiernan@rcapsolutions.org(802)
377-5938
Joshua Lochhead | Community Specialist
jlochhead@rcapsolutions.org(802)
461-6308
Funding Agency or Organization
USDA-RD - US Department of Agriculture Rural Development
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Emergency Management, Infrastructure, Water and Wastewater, Water Quality
Caring For Canopies Grants
The Vermont Urban and Community Forestry (VT UCF) Program's Communities Caring for Canopy grants provide seed funding to help communities develop and sustain community-wide programs for trees and forests in public places and right-of-ways. These grants allow for multiple program components (e.g., tree planting, tree maintenance, tree inventory, plan development, emerald ash borer or other pest preparedness, public outreach, staff training, and program development) to be merged into one grant application.
Funding Agency or Organization
VT UCF - Vermont Urban and Community Forestry
Local Match Requirement
1:1 cost share (including in-kind)
Award Amount
$5,000 - $10,000 reimbursement
Deadline
January
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Conservation, Placemaking, Planning, Water Quality
Catalyst Program
The Catalyst Program is NBRC’s flagship competitive grant program, formerly known as the State Economic & Infrastructure Development (SEID) program. Through Catalyst, NBRC invests in state economic development priorities to support a broad range of initiatives that modernize and expand the Northern Border region’s basic infrastructure and revitalizes communities to support and attract the region’s workforce.
The Catalyst Program is designed to stimulate economic growth and inspire partnerships that improve rural economic vitality across the four-state NBRC region. NBRC encourages projects that take a creative approach to addressing an economic need or opportunity in the region, alleviate economic distress, and contribute to economic growth.
Successful projects support a broad range of economic development initiatives such as, but not limited to, projects that modernize and expand access to public water and wastewater services, revitalize transportation infrastructure, establish workforce development programs and facilities, grow the outdoor recreation economy, and provide access to new childcare and healthcare facilities.
Funding Agency or Organization
NBRC - Northern Border Regional Commission
Local Match Requirement
20-50% depending on economic distress criteria: https://www.nbrc.gov/content/project-match
Award Amount
Feasibility Award: up to $100,000; Implementation Award: up to $1 million; Multi-infrastructure or Multi-jurisdiction: up to $3 million
Deadline
February or April
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, School, State
Project Categories
Broadband and Telecommunications, Economic Development, Infrastructure, Public Health, Recreation, Transportation, Water and Wastewater
CCRPC Unified Planning Work Program
The Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) is the CCRPC’s annual (July 1 through June 30) work program which summarizes the planning activities and projects funded by and through the CCRPC with federal, state, and local funding. Every year, the CCRPC is soliciting proposals from municipalities and other partner organizations on transportation, land use, water quality, and other panning projects that are in support of the regional ECOS and local plans. The selected projects/initiatives together with other planning activities form the CCRPC's annual work program.
Funding Agency or Organization
CCRPC - Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission
Local Match Requirement
Varies
Award Amount
N/A
Deadline
January
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Planning, Transportation, Water Quality
Certified Local Government Program Grants
To help local governments integrate historic preservation concerns with planning and decision making processes.
Funding Agency or Organization
ACCD - Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development
Local Match Requirement
40% to 50%
Award Amount
Min - $500 Max - $25,000
Deadline
March
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Buildings, Engagement, Historic Preservation, Housing, Infrastructure, Planning
ChargeVermont Electric Vehicle Charger Grants
This funding for installation of electric vehicle charging solutions provides provide convenient, reliable, and affordable access specifically for residents of multi-unit housing, workplaces, and public attractions.
Funding Agency or Organization
ACCD - Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development
Local Match Requirement
Varies 0-10%
Award Amount
Varies $500-$160,000
Deadline
First-come, first-served as funding is available
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Buildings, Energy, Housing, Transportation
Charging & Fueling Infrastructure Discretionary Grant
The Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Discretionary Grant Program (CFI Program) supports strategic deployment of publicly accessible electric vehicle charging and alternative fueling infrastructure, particularly in underserved and disadvantaged communities. CFI Program investments will make modern and sustainable infrastructure accessible to all drivers of electric, hydrogen, propane, and natural gas vehicles. This program provides two funding categories of grants: (1) Community Charging and Fueling Grants (Community Program); and (2) Alternative Fuel Corridor Grants (Corridor Program).
Funding Agency or Organization
USDOT - US Department of Transportation
Local Match Requirement
20%
Award Amount
Community Program: minimum $500,000, maximum $15 million
Corridor Program: minimum $1 million (no maximum)
Deadline
May
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, RPC, State
Project Categories
Energy, Infrastructure, Transportation
Chittenden County RPC Brownfields Program
The goal of the Chittenden County Brownfields Program is to help properties that are vacant or underutilized because of potential petroleum or hazardous substance contamination get put to productive use again. Funds can pay for Phase I ESA, Phase II ESA, Corrective Action Planning, and cleanup.
Funding Agency or Organization
CCRPC - Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission
Local Match Requirement
Phase 1 assessments: up to $4,000-5,000; Other assessments: up to $40,000
Award Amount
For-profit: 50-80%; Non-profit / municipal: 80-100%
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Brownfields, Buildings, Economic Development, Housing, Infrastructure
Clean Energy Group Technical Assistance Fund
Clean Energy Group’s Technical Assistance Fund (TAF) supports organizations that provide essential services to low-income and underserved communities, environmental justice communities, and communities of color so that they can develop resilient power solutions for critical community service providers in the event of a power outage. Clean Energy Group works with a diverse array of community-serving institutions, such as community centers, emergency shelters, cooling centers, affordable housing, food pantries, fire departments, and health clinics to provide information and guidance.
The TAF fills a critical resource gap by equipping community-serving organizations with the information they need to advance a resilient power project - solar paired with battery storage (solar+storage). The TAF provides dedicated one-on-one support to help organizations gain a better understanding of solar+storage and its benefits, along with targeted funding to engage technical expertise to produce a solar+storage feasibility assessment for a proposed project. Clean Energy Group serves as an advisor throughout the process to ensure that each organization’s questions are answered and their unique energy resilience, economic, and community goals are prioritized.
Funding Agency or Organization
Clean Energy Group
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Up to $15,000
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit, School
Project Categories
Buildings, Energy, Equity and Social Justice
Clean Energy to Communities Program
The C2C program is a technical assistance grant that connects local governments, tribes, electric utilities, and community-based organizations with national laboratory experts and customized, cutting-edge analysis to achieve clean energy systems that are reflective of local and regional priorities. By bringing together innovative technology, state-of-the-art modeling, and unique abilities to test clean energy plans before installing them in the field, C2C can help close the gap between clean energy ambitions and real-world deployment.
Funding Agency or Organization
DOE - US Department of Energy
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
In-depth partnerships: 3 years
Peer-learning cohorts: approximately 6 months
Expert match: 40-60 hours
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Electric Utility, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC
Project Categories
Energy, Engagement, Infrastructure, Planning, Transportation
Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Program
This program funds replacement of existing non-zero-emission Class 6 and 7 heavy-duty vehicles with zero-emission Class 6 and 7 heavy-duty vehicles, support zero-emission vehicle infrastructure, and to train and develop workers.
Funding Agency or Organization
EPA - US Environmental Protection Agency
Local Match Requirement
Varies by vehicle type
Award Amount
$500,000 - $60 million
Deadline
July
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, RPC, School, State, Transit Agency
Project Categories
Energy, Transportation
Clean Water and Healthy Ecosystems Planning and Implementation Projects
These grants support water quality and ecological health in the Lake Champlain Basin. Projects are awarded in one of several categories: Clean Water (including Planning & Implementation) and Healthy Ecosystems (including Habitat and Native Species Conservation, Aquatic Invasive Species Spread Prevention, and Aquatic Organism Passage).
Funding Agency or Organization
LCBP - Lake Champlain Basin Program
Local Match Requirement
Not required but beneficial
Award Amount
Up to $175,000
Deadline
October
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC
Project Categories
Conservation, Planning, Water Quality
Clean Water State Revolving Loan Fund
Vermont's CWSRF Program provides funding for Vermont's Clean Water projects in the form of low interest loans to municipalities and private entities for eligible projects, including the planning, design, and construction of municipal wastewater and stormwater systems.
Funding Agency or Organization
ANR - Vermont Agency of Natural Resources
Local Match Requirement
N/A
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
Planning: Rolling
Construction: March
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Infrastructure, Planning, Water and Wastewater, Water Quality
Climate Catalysts Innovation Fund: Small Grants for Innovative Local Climate and Energy Projects
The Vermont Council on Rural Development, in collaboration with the Vermont Low Income Trust for Electricity (VLITE) and Vermont State Employees Credit Union (VSECU) invites applications for small grants to support local innovators developing solutions that move Vermont closer to its climate and energy goals. The Climate Catalysts Innovation Fund has supported community projects that have installed new draft-stopping window inserts, solar parking lot streetlights, e-bikes at local libraries, an EV police cruiser, construction of a public regenerative “food forest,” energy audit incentives for local businesses, and more.
Funding Agency or Organization
VCRD - Vermont Council on Rural Development
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
$500 - $4000
Deadline
October
Competitive?
Yes
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC
Project Categories
Buildings, Climate & Environmental Justice, Energy, Housing, Infrastructure, Planning, Transportation
Climate Economy Resilient Communities
VCRD’s Resilient Communities Program supports three to five communities each year working on local climate action solutions that help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lower energy use, increase climate resilience, and/or strengthen the local climate economy. Services are adaptable based on the community’s needs and can include support with community engagement processes, strategic planning, technical assistance, and/or project implementation.
Funding Agency or Organization
VCRD - Vermont Council on Rural Development
Local Match Requirement
In-kind only
Award Amount
12 months of technical assistance
Deadline
January
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Climate & Environmental Justice, Economic Development, Energy, Planning
Climate Smart Communities Initiative (CSCI)
CSCI awards provide funding and technical assistance to advance community-based climate resilience in US communities or regions that are highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and in need of additional technical and administrative capacity from a 3rd party adaptation practitioner. The program prioritizes its limited funding for communities that include historically disinvested populations at increased risk to climate-related impacts and that would benefit from additional technical and administrative capacity from an adaptation practitioner to make progress towards their climate resilience goals. It is open to US-based project teams composed of a climate adaptation practitioner and representatives from a local or regional government entity and a community-based organization.
Funding Agency or Organization
Climate Smart Communities Initiative
Local Match Requirement
None, but indirect cost rate capped at 10%
Award Amount
$75,000-$115,000
Deadline
March
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Conservation District, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, School
Project Categories
Climate & Environmental Justice, Conservation, Equity and Social Justice, Infrastructure, Planning, Public Safety
Collaborative Capacity Program for Forests & Communities
The National Forest Foundation’s Collaborative Capacity Program financial awards provide resources to support collaborative activities that increase wildfire resilience, recreation opportunities, forest health, and rural economies. Eligible efforts must describe how investments in collaboration will support a long-term strategy for achieving stewardship outcomes and how these outcomes benefit National Forest System lands.
Funding Agency or Organization
NFF - National Forest Foundation
Local Match Requirement
20%
Award Amount
$20,000-$50,000
Deadline
May
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, School
Project Categories
Conservation
Commercial Energy Loan Program
This program helps Vermont businesses finance qualifying renewable energy generation and energy efficiency improvement projects. VEDA may either make its own direct loan or purchase a portion of another Financial Institution's loan. Use of proceeds must directly relate to a project for renewable energy generation and/or energy efficiency improvements and/or energy technology.
Funding Agency or Organization
VEDA - Vermont Economic Development Authority
Local Match Requirement
10% to 40%
Award Amount
Max - $6 million
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC
Project Categories
Buildings, Energy, Infrastructure
Communities Sparking Investment in Transformative Energy (C-SITE)
This grant supports programs and projects at the local level that reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, save customers money, create local jobs, improve air quality, combat climate change, and focus benefits on disadvantaged communities. Projects may span a range of geographic scopes and wide variety of technology areas, including, but not limited to, building efficiency and/or electrification, clean transportation, energy infrastructure upgrades, microgrid development and deployment, renewable energy, and workforce development. All projects must include meaningful community engagement.
Funding Agency or Organization
DOE - US Department of Energy
Local Match Requirement
5%
Award Amount
$900,000 - $3.6 million
Deadline
May 31, 2024
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, EDD - Economic Development District, Electric Utility, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Communities with Disadvantages Liaison Grant Program
This grant program aims to support efforts to engage, develop, or continue to strengthen relationships with Communities with Disadvantages in the Lake Champlain Basin. Successful projects will engage
Communities with Disadvantages
in discussions, planning, or implementation efforts to identify and address water quality, habitat, recreation, or access concerns in the Lake Champlain watershed. This grant opportunity will support direct engagement over multiple years to build relationships with
Communities with Disadvantages
to identify and elevate the needs and concerns of communities that face barriers to accessing or participating in water quality improvement programs and processes.
Funding Agency or Organization
LCBP - Lake Champlain Basin Program
Local Match Requirement
None required
Award Amount
Up to $150,000
Deadline
April 11, 2024
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Non-profit, School
Project Categories
Climate & Environmental Justice, Engagement, Equity and Social Justice, Recreation, Water Quality
Community Compass Technical Assistance and Capacity Building Program
As HUD’s integrated technical assistance (TA) and capacity building initiative, Community Compass helps HUD’s customers navigate complex housing and community development challenges by equipping them with the knowledge, skills, tools, capacity, and systems to successfully and sustainably implement HUD programs and policies and provide effective administrative and managerial oversight of HUD funding. Successful applicants will become TA Providers for HUD grantees and subgrantees and can receive TA assignments from HUD to support specific projects such as conducting needs assessments, holding financial management trainings, or assisting with the creation of a strategic plan.
Funding Agency or Organization
HUD - US Department of Housing and Urban Development
Local Match Requirement
N/A (Cooperative Agreement)
Award Amount
Minimum: $100,000 per project year
Maximum: $40,000,000 per project year
Deadline
March
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Engagement, Equity and Social Justice, Housing, Planning
Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) Funds
The Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development, Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) will receive $67,845,000 million from US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)in Community Development Block Grant- Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds in response to Vermont's July 2023 floods FEMA Disaster Declaration 4720. These funds will help communities with the necessary expenses related to disaster relief, long-term recovery, restoration of infrastructure and housing, and economic revitalization in the most impacted and distressed areas receiving major disaster declarations, for CDBG-DR eligible activities and addressed a national objective of benefitting low and moderate income people and addressing an urgent need. The Federal Register mandates $54,276,000 must be used to serve communities in HUD-Identified MID areas which are zip code 05656 for Lamoille County and all of Washington county. The remaining $13,569,000 may be used to address unmet needs in the State-Identified MID areas (Caledonia, Orleans, Rutland, Windham, and Windsor Counties). All eligible projects
MUST
have an unmet need with a direct tie-back to Vermont's July 2023 flooding events (FEMA Disaster Declaration 4720) and primarily benefit low- and moderate-income (LMI) households and individuals.
Funding Agency or Organization
ACCD - Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development, HUD - US Department of Housing and Urban Development
Local Match Requirement
None required, but expected
Award Amount
Implementation Grant: $500,000 - $10 million; Planning Grant: $100,000 - $2 million
Deadline
Aug and Oct 2025
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Buildings, Climate & Environmental Justice, Emergency Management, Housing, Infrastructure, Planning, Transportation, Water Quality
Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program
This program provides affordable funding to develop essential community facilities in rural areas with fewer than 20,000 residents. An essential community facility is defined as a facility that provides an essential service to the local community for the orderly development of the community in a primarily rural area, and does not include private, commercial or business undertakings. This may include health care, government buildings, community centers, transitional housing, public safety facilities and equipment, educational services, telecommunications, food pantries, and more.
Funding Agency or Organization
USDA-RD - US Department of Agriculture Rural Development
Local Match Requirement
25% to 85% for grants
Loan rates and fees vary
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
National Pool - April
State Pool - December
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Buildings, Economic Development, Emergency Management, Housing, Infrastructure, Other, Public Health
Community Facilities Loan Guarantee Program
This program provides affordable funding to develop essential community facilities in rural areas with fewer than 50,000 residents. An essential community facility is defined as a facility that provides an essential service to the local community for the orderly development of the community in a primarily rural area, and does not include private, commercial or business undertakings. This may include health care, government buildings, community centers, transitional housing, public safety facilities and equipment, educational services, telecommunications, food pantries, and more.
Funding Agency or Organization
USDA-RD - US Department of Agriculture Rural Development
Local Match Requirement
Loan rates and fees vary
Award Amount
$100 million
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Buildings, Economic Development, Emergency Management, Housing, Infrastructure, Other, Public Health
Community Facilities Technical Assistance and Training Grant
Provides associations Technical Assistance and/or training with respect to essential community facilities programs.  The Technical Assistance and/or training will assist communities, Indian Tribes, and Nonprofit Corporations to identify and plan for community facility needs that exist in their area.  Once those needs have been identified, the Grantee can assist in identifying public and private resources to finance those identified community facility needs. Rural areas including cities, villages, townships, towns and Federally recognized Tribal Lands outside the boundaries of a city of 20,000 or more.
Funding Agency or Organization
USDA-RD - US Department of Agriculture Rural Development
Local Match Requirement
None. At least 20% minimum to be competitive.
Award Amount
Max - $150,000
Deadline
June
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Buildings, Economic Development, Emergency Management, Housing, Infrastructure, Other, Planning, Public Health
Community Forest Program
The Community Forest and Open Space Conservation Program (Community Forest Program) of the Forest Service offers a unique opportunity for communities to acquire and conserve forests that provide public access and recreational opportunities, protect vital water supplies and wildlife habitat, serve as demonstration sites for private forest landowners, and provide economic benefits from timber and non-timber products.
Funding Agency or Organization
USFS - United States Forest Service
Local Match Requirement
50%
Award Amount
Up to $60,000
Deadline
January
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Conservation, Recreation
Community Resilience Hub Grants
The Land Access and Opportunity Board (LAOB) is offering a Community Resilience Award to support Community Resilience Hubs in Vermont. These reimbursement grant funds are meant to help communities meet needs that are not being met right now. The main goal is to help communities work together to prepare for and respond to emergencies and everyday challenges. Access the
letter of intent here
Please direct any questions to
kiah@vhcb.org
Funding Agency or Organization
VHCB - Vermont Housing and Conservation Board
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Up to $50,000
Deadline
Letters of Intent due 2/14/2026
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, School
Project Categories
Economic Development, Emergency Management, Equity and Social Justice, Public Safety
Community Tree Fund
The Community Tree Fund is a collaborative effort between the
Vermont Electric Power Company
(VELCO) and the
Vermont Urban & Community Forestry Program
(VT UCF). This flexible funding enables VT UCF to support modest yet impactful initiatives that contribute to the health and vitality of Vermont’s urban and community forests. Goals of the fund are:
Support small, specialized tree planting projects beyond our regular initiatives.
Solicit projects that celebrate community and
align with our mission
Advance justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI)
in urban and community forestry.
Funding Agency or Organization
VELCO - Vermont Electric Power Company, VT UCF - Vermont Urban and Community Forestry
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Up to $1,500
Deadline
Spring and fall
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Climate & Environmental Justice, Conservation, Equity and Social Justice, Placemaking, Public Health, Recreation
Community Wood Grant Program
The Community Wood Grant Program, launched in 2020, provides funding for grants to install thermally led community wood energy systems or to build innovative wood product manufacturing facilities, which will improve forest health and stimulate local economies. The Forest Service expects renewable wood energy systems installed under this program to use the most stringent control technologies. The program places extra emphasis on assisting sawmills in economically challenged areas to retool or add advanced technology.
Funding Agency or Organization
USFS - United States Forest Service
Local Match Requirement
65% leveraging
Award Amount
$1 million maximum
Deadline
December
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Non-profit, State
Project Categories
Buildings, Conservation, Economic Development, Energy
Congressionally-Directed Spending
Vermont's two U.S. Senators and U.S. House Representative annually solicit applications for projects to receive funding directly from Congress for projects that strengthen Vermont communities and improve the lives of people across our state. Past projects have had a significant impact across a wide range of issues, including child care, sustainable energy, dental care, housing, and wastewater infrastructure.
Senator Bernie Sanders:
Senator Peter Welch:
Representative Becca Balint:
Funding Agency or Organization
U.S. Treasury
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
April
Competitive?
Yes
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, School, State
Project Categories
Accessibility, Agriculture, Art, Broadband and Telecommunications, Brownfields, Buildings, Climate & Environmental Justice, Conservation, Economic Development, Emergency Management, Energy, Engagement, Equity and Social Justice, Historic Preservation, Housing, Infrastructure, Other, Placemaking, Planning, Public Health, Public Safety, Recreation, Transportation, Water and Wastewater, Water Quality
Cultural Facilities Grant Program
For community facilities used to provide cultural activities to the public and to enhance or expand the capacity of an existing building to provide cultural programming.
Funding Agency or Organization
BGS - Vermont Department of Buildings and General Services, Vermont Arts Council
Local Match Requirement
50% (at least 50% of which must be cash)
Award Amount
Min -$1,000 Max- $30,000
Deadline
May
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Accessibility, Art, Buildings, Economic Development, Emergency Management, Historic Preservation, Infrastructure, Placemaking
Culvert Aquatic Organism Passage (AOP) Grant
The National Culvert Removal, Replacement, and Restoration Grant Program (Culvert AOP Program) is a competitive grant program for the replacement, removal, and repair of culverts or weirs that meaningfully improve or restore fish passage for anadromous fish. Anadromous is the term that describes fish born in freshwater who spend most of their lives in saltwater and migrate back to freshwater to spawn.
Funding Agency or Organization
USDOT - US Department of Transportation
Local Match Requirement
20%
Award Amount
Varies (generally $200,000 - $50 million)
Deadline
August
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, RPC, State
Project Categories
Conservation, Infrastructure, Transportation, Water Quality
CWIP Dam Removal Design / Implementation Grant
A part of the Vermont Clean Water Initiative Program (CWIP), this grant supports design and implementation of selected priority water quality Dam Removal projects from the
DEC Watershed Projects Database
to achieve measurable improvements to Vermont's water quality by reducing nutrient and sediment pollution. Secondary benefits (aquatic organism passage, aquatic and terrestrial habitat restoration, improved flood resilience, recreation benefits, etc.) may be included to increase project competitiveness.
Funding Agency or Organization
ANR - Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, WUV - Watersheds United Vermont
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
$850,000 total grant pool
Deadline
March
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC
Project Categories
Conservation, Emergency Management, Infrastructure, Planning, Water Quality
CWIP Enhancement Design and Implementation Grant
A part of the Vermont Clean Water Initiative Program (CWIP), the EDDIG grant supports the development, design, and implementation of priority water quality projects. The projects' primary purpose must be to reduce sediment and nutrient pollution from runoff and soil erosion that discharge into the State’s rivers, streams, lakes, ponds and wetlands. While any eligible entity can apply to any sub-grantee, it is recommended that watershed groups apply to
Watersheds United Vermont
, municipalities apply to the
Mount Ascutney Regional Commission
, and conservation districts apply to the
Vermont Natural Resources Conservation Council
. Projects fall into two categories: 1. stormwater projects (specifically those not on state-identified 3-acre sites) and 2. natural resources projects (including restoration of lakeshore, rivers / floodplains / streams, wetlands, and watershed forestry). Funds can be used for preliminary and final engineering design.
Funding Agency or Organization
ANR - Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, VACD - Vermont Association of Conservation Districts, WUV - Watersheds United Vermont
Local Match Requirement
50% in MS4 communities, No match required elsewhere
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
April and May
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Conservation, Infrastructure, Water Quality
CWIP MS4 Community Formula Grant
The Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Community Formula Grant, a part of the Vermont Clean Water Initiative Program (CWIP), assists MS4 communities with
MS4 permit compliance
to reduce the adverse impacts to water quality of a discharge or stormwater runoff. Grant recipients must use the grant to design and/or implement eligible stormwater management practices to help with MS4 community make progress towards phosphorus reducted targets assigned within their Phosphorus Control Plans.
Funding Agency or Organization
ANR - Vermont Agency of Natural Resources
Local Match Requirement
50%
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
Spring
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Infrastructure, Transportation, Water Quality
CWIP Project Development Grant
A part of the Vermont Clean Water Initiative Program (CWIP), this grant supports development of water quality improvement projects. Funds should be used for getting landowners, municipalities and other partners “on board” with projects to improve water quality and to move projects towards design and implementation. Applications may be submitted for
general project scoping
of a set of projects, or for development of
specific projects
that require coordination between the landowner and other partners.
Funding Agency or Organization
ANR - Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, WUV - Watersheds United Vermont
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
General scoping: $500 - $2,000Specific projects: appx. $15,000 max
Deadline
Varies
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Conservation, Planning, Water Quality
Diesel Emissions Reduction Assistance
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency awards grants under the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) to assist States in their efforts to develop diesel emissions reduction programs. The Vermont Diesel Emissions Reduction Financial Assistance Program was developed to provide technical assistance and incentive funding for projects that reduce diesel emissions from engines, vehicles, and equipment in Vermont with the goals of reducing public exposure to emissions from diesel-powered engines and the associated risks to public health and the environment. The Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) periodically solicits applications from potential project partners for projects that achieve significant reductions in diesel emissions from diesel powered engines, vehicles and equipment operating in Vermont.
Funding Agency or Organization
ANR - Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, EPA - US Environmental Protection Agency
Local Match Requirement
Varies
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
December
Competitive?
Yes
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Energy, Transportation
Direct Loan Program
This program helps businesses to finance fixed assets such as purchase of land, buildings (including renovations), machinery, equipment, furniture, and fixtures. It is utilized in conjunction with bank financing. Projects must demonstrate creation or retention of employment for Vermonters or import of capital to Vermont.
Funding Agency or Organization
VEDA - Vermont Economic Development Authority
Local Match Requirement
10%
Award Amount
Up to $5 million ($6 million for energy-related projects)
capped at 40% of project cost
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business
Project Categories
Buildings, Economic Development, Energy, Infrastructure
Disabled Access Tax Credit
The Disabled Access Credit provides a non-refundable credit for small businesses (less than $1 mil earnings and 30 or fewer full-time employees) that incur expenditures for the purpose of providing access to persons with disabilities. Tax credit of 50% of eligible access expenditures (architectural adaptations, equipment purchase and services like sign language interpreters) that exceed $250 but do not exceed $10,000.
Funding Agency or Organization
IRS - US Internal Revenue Service
Local Match Requirement
50%
Award Amount
Min - $250
Max - $10,000
Deadline
Due with business tax return
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business
Project Categories
Accessibility, Buildings, Economic Development, Equity and Social Justice
Disaster Public Assistance
The FEMA Public Assistance (PA) Program (administered by Vermont Emergency Management) provides federal disaster assistance to state and local government organizations for debris removal, emergency protective measures and the permanent restoration or replacement of public facilities that are owned and operated by an eligible Applicant. Funds must be associated with a major disaster declaration by the U.S. President.
Funding Agency or Organization
FEMA - Federal Emergency Management Agency, VEM - Vermont Emergency Management
Local Match Requirement
Varies
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
Varies
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Buildings, Emergency Management, Infrastructure, Public Safety, Transportation
Disaster Supplemental Funding – FY2023
This opportunity within the Economic Adjustment Assistance (EAA) program awards investments in regions experiencing severe economic distress or other economic harm resulting from natural disasters occurring in calendar years 2021 and 2022, including hurricanes, wildfires, flooding, etc. The EAA program is intended to be flexible and responsive to the economic development needs and priorities of local and regional stakeholders, including those seeking assistance recovering from Federally declared disasters.
Funding Agency or Organization
EDA - US Economic Development Administration
Local Match Requirement
Varies, typically 20%
Award Amount
No maximum within regional allocation
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
EDD - Economic Development District, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Broadband and Telecommunications, Climate & Environmental Justice, Economic Development, Emergency Management, Infrastructure, Planning
Disaster Supplemental Funding – FY2025
This opportunity within the Economic Adjustment Assistance (EAA) program awards investments in regions experiencing severe economic distress or other economic harm resulting from natural disasters occurring in calendar years 2023 and 2024, including hurricanes, wildfires, flooding, etc. The EAA program is intended to be flexible and responsive to the economic development needs and priorities of local and regional stakeholders, including those seeking assistance recovering from Federally declared disasters.
Funding Agency or Organization
EDA - US Economic Development Administration
Local Match Requirement
Varies, typically 20%
Award Amount
Readiness: $250,000 - $500,000; Implementation: $100,000 - $5 million; Industry Transformation: $20 million - $50 million
Deadline
Readiness & Implementation Paths: Rolling; Implementation: March 3, 2026
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
EDD - Economic Development District, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Broadband and Telecommunications, Climate & Environmental Justice, Economic Development, Emergency Management, Infrastructure, Planning
Designated Center Tax Credits
This program helps to stimulate private investment, create jobs, and support the creation and improvement of rental housing. Tax credits can restore buildings and jump start revitalization in Vermont communities. Successful projects range from modest renovations in small centers to multimillion-dollar downtown redevelopments for both income-producing and non-profit properties. Projects must be within a Designated Downtown, Village Center, or Neighborhood Development Area. Credits support qualified historic rehabilitation and exterior façade improvements for structures at least 30 years old, as well as code compliance work and flood mitigation upgrades.
Funding Agency or Organization
ACCD - Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development
Local Match Requirement
50% to 90% of eligible expenditures
Award Amount
10% to 50% of eligible expendituresMinimum $5,000Maximum varies
Deadline
July
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Non-profit
Project Categories
Buildings, Economic Development, Emergency Management, Historic Preservation, Housing, Infrastructure
Downtown Sales Tax Reallocation Program
Municipalities and the developer of a qualified project jointly apply for a reallocation of sales taxes on construction materials to fund related projects within the same designated downtown. Eligible uses include expansion or rehabilitation of contiguous real property, or to fund municipal projects that support qualified projects.
Funding Agency or Organization
ACCD - Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development
Local Match Requirement
N/A
Award Amount
Varies by size of municipality and project
Cap of $3 million combined with Downtown and Village Center Tax Credits
Deadline
July 1
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Buildings, Economic Development, Historic Preservation, Housing, Infrastructure, Placemaking, Transportation, Water and Wastewater, Water Quality
Downtown Transportation Fund
To finance transportation-related capital improvements in support of economic development, within or serving a state designated downtown or village center to support safe, multi-modal, and resilient transportation systems. Projects include construction or alteration of roads and highways, parking facilities, pedestrian and streetscape improvement, rail or bus facilities or equipment, and underground relocation of electric utility, cable and telecommunications lines. Village centers must have participated in the Better Connections Program or have completed comparable comprehensive planning.
Funding Agency or Organization
ACCD - Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development
Local Match Requirement
20%
Award Amount
Max - $200,000
Deadline
February
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Broadband and Telecommunications, Brownfields, Historic Preservation, Infrastructure, Transportation
Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Construction Fund
This component of the state's water infrastructure financing program is available for bidding, construction, and post-construction activities for public drinking water systems. This may include new drinking water facilities, public community water systems, and private non-profit water systems. Funds are available as a 0% interest loan with a 20-40 year term that may be fully or partially forgiven under certain criteria.
Funding Agency or Organization
ANR - Vermont Agency of Natural Resources
Local Match Requirement
N/A - 0% interest loan
May be forgivable under certain terms
Administrative fees may apply
Award Amount
No maximum
Deadline
March
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Infrastructure, Water and Wastewater
Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Planning Fund
This component of the state's water infrastructure financing program is available for planning, preliminary design, and final engineering of public drinking water systems. This may include new drinking water facilities, public community water systems, and private non-profit water systems. Funds are available as a 0% interest loan with a 20-40 year term that may be fully or partially forgiven under certain criteria.
Funding Agency or Organization
ANR - Vermont Agency of Natural Resources
Local Match Requirement
N/A - 0% interest loan
May be forgivable under certain terms
Administrative fees may apply
Award Amount
Max - $250,000 per funding cycle
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Infrastructure, Planning, Water and Wastewater
Drug Free Communities Support Program
This program provides community-based coalitions with up to 10 years of funding to promote positive youth engagement and address the local conditions that drive youth substance use.
Funding Agency or Organization
CDC - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Local Match Requirement
Years 1-6: 100% match (1 : 1)
Years 7-8: 125% match (1.25 : 1)
Years 9-10: 150% match (1.5 : 1)
Award Amount
$125,000 per budget period
Deadline
April
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Engagement, Equity and Social Justice, Public Health
Electric Vehicle Charger Reliability and Accessibility Accelerator
This program provides funding to repair or replace broken or non-operational EV chargers to improve the reliability of existing EV charging infrastructure. It is the first round of funding from the larger
National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Formula Program
(funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law) and is part of a larger effort to develop a consistent and convenient network of EV chargers throughout the country. To be eligible for funding, charging stations must also be listed as “Temporarily Unavailable” on the U.S. Department of
Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC)
map by October 11, 2023.
Funding Agency or Organization
USDOT - US Department of Transportation
Local Match Requirement
20%
Award Amount
No Maximum (based on number and type of chargers to be repaired / replaced)
Deadline
November
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, State
Project Categories
Energy, Infrastructure, Transportation
Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment – State Contract Pricing
The State of Vermont Department of Buildings and General Services (BGS) recently completed a bid process for EV charging equipment. Political subdivisions of the State are eligible to access the State’s contract pricing which could help save money and time associated with installing charging equipment.
Funding Agency or Organization
BGS - Vermont Department of Buildings and General Services
Local Match Requirement
100%
Award Amount
Up to $500,000
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, RPC
Project Categories
Buildings, Energy, Infrastructure, Transportation
Electric Vehicle Incentives – Vermont Electric Cooperative
Vermont Electric Cooperative (VEC) offers free electric vehicle (EV) charging equipment for homes and businesses in its service territory, as well as a bill credit for purchase of electric vehicles. VEC also provides incentives for pellet stoves, heat pumps and other electric equipment.
Funding Agency or Organization
VEC - Vermont Electric Cooperative
Local Match Requirement
None for EV charger; varies for others
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC
Project Categories
Buildings, Energy, Infrastructure, Transportation
Electric Vehicle Charging Station Loan Program
This program provides a loan for purchase and/or installation of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations that are made available for use by the general public.
Funding Agency or Organization
VEDA - Vermont Economic Development Authority
Local Match Requirement
1% fixed interest rate
2% commitment fee
Award Amount
Max - $100,000
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC
Project Categories
Economic Development, Energy, Infrastructure, Transportation
Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) Program
The EWP Program is a recovery fund for installation of recovery measures to relieve imminent hazards to life and property caused by floods, fires, windstorms, and other natural disasters. Public and private landowners are eligible for assistance, but must be represented by a project sponsor. It is not necessary for a national emergency to be declared for an area to be eligible for assistance. The program can include purchasing floodplain easements.
EWP is designed life and property as a result of a natural disaster. Threats that the EWP Program addresses are termed watershed impairments. These include, but are not limited to:
debris-clogged waterways,
unstable streambanks,
severe erosion jeopardizing public infrastructure,
wind-borne debris removal, and
damaged upland sites stripped of protective vegetation by fire or drought.
Funding Agency or Organization
NRCS - Natural Resources Conservation Service
Local Match Requirement
Engineering / Technical Assistance: no local match; Installation / Construction: 25% (10% in census-defined limited-resource areas)
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Conservation District, Municipal, RPC, State
Project Categories
Conservation, Emergency Management, Public Safety, Water Quality
Energy Efficiency Conservation Block Grant
The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program assists states, local governments, and Tribes implement strategies to reduce energy use, to reduce fossil fuel emissions, and to improve energy efficiency. There are two tracks: a non-competitive formula grant (
see allocation list
) available via simple application, and a
competitive grant administered by the Vermont Department of Public Service
. Municipalities that received funding through the formula grants are NOT eligible to apply for the competitive grant.
Funding Agency or Organization
DOE - US Department of Energy, PSD - Vermont Department of Public Service
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Formula Grant: Varies - see funding allocations; Competitive grant: $50,000-$100,000
Deadline
Formula Grant: April 2023; Competitive Grant: August 9, 2024
Competitive?
Competitive and Non-Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Buildings, Energy, Infrastructure, Planning, Transportation
Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy Program
The program provides low cost and flexible financing for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects to help drive down costs for all eligible Bond Bank borrowers from towns to school districts. Loans must achieve measurable energy use or cost savings. The target is 15%, although projects above 5% savings will be considered.
Funding Agency or Organization
Vermont Bond Bank
Local Match Requirement
Varies based on interest rate & closing costs
Award Amount
No minimum or maximum
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, School
Project Categories
Buildings, Energy
Engineering Planning Advance
Development of engineering feasibility studies for drinking water systems or wastewater solutions. Only municipalities without municipally owned community drinking water or sewer systems.
Funding Agency or Organization
ANR - Vermont Agency of Natural Resources
Local Match Requirement
No match for planning.
Full repayment (100%) due upon construction.
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Infrastructure, Planning, Water and Wastewater
Enhancements of Recreation Stewardship and Access (ERSA) Trail Grants
ERSA Trail Grants are intended to support non-profit organizations and municipalities around the state as they work to steward and restore their community's trails and improve trail accessibility and access for this generation and the next.
Funding Agency or Organization
FPR - Vermont Forests Parks & Recreation
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
$25,000 minimumNo maximum
Deadline
August (letter of intent)November (full application)
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Accessibility, Conservation, Recreation, Transportation
Environmental Justice for New England Grants
These funds will support organizations implementing projects to address local environmental and public health challenges across the region, including Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. Funded projects must focus on at least one disadvantaged community in the six New England States. Eligible applicants can apply for subgrants through three concurrent tiers as well as the Seed Fund for organizations with limited capacities.
Funding Agency or Organization
Environmental Justice for New England
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
$75,000 - $350,000
Deadline
March 7, 2025
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Non-profit
Project Categories
Climate & Environmental Justice, Engagement, Planning, Public Health
Environmental Justice Small Grant Program
This grant program is designed to support communities with heightened risk and increased sensitivity to climate change and that have less capacity and fewer resources to cope with, adapt to, or recover from climate impacts. The degree of risk and sensitivity stems from physical (built and environmental), social, political, and/or economic factors, which interact with each other and are exacerbated by climate impacts. These factors include race, class, sexual orientation and gender identity, national origin, and income inequality.
The program will fund community-driven programs or projects that help local communities adapt to the impacts of Vermont's changing climate and the increase of severe weather events. Projects may represent a wide spectrum of ideas and activities, including arts, community education and skill building, food access, green jobs, projects that reduce risk and harm, multi-generational climate activities, youth leadership, movement building, and more. Funds may be used for salaries, benefits, contracted workers, project materials and equipment, reasonable overhead costs, and similar, necessary project expenses.
Funding Agency or Organization
VNRC - Vermont Natural Resources Council
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Up to $10,000
Deadline
Round 1: November; Round 2: December
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, School
Project Categories
Climate & Environmental Justice, Engagement, Equity and Social Justice, Public Health, Public Safety
Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program
The Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking (EJ TCGM) Program will select multiple Grantmakers (pass-through entities) to reduce barriers to the federal grants application process communities face and increase the efficiency of the awards process for environmental justice grants. Grantmakers will design competitive application and submission processes, award environmental justice subgrants, implement a tracking and reporting system, provide resources and support to communities, all in collaboration with EPA’s Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights.
Funding Agency or Organization
EPA - US Environmental Protection Agency
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Up to $50 million over 3 years ($16.5 million per year)
Deadline
May
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Non-profit
Project Categories
Climate & Environmental Justice, Engagement, Equity and Social Justice, Public Health, Water Quality
Farmer Resilience Grants
NOFA-VT has a pool of funds to distribute directly to farmers as grants to fund projects that will improve longer-term resilience on farms to promote organic practices to build an economically viable, ecologically sound, and socially just Vermont agricultural system that benefits all living things. NOFA-VT is particularly interested in projects that:
mitigate against the harmful effects of our changing climate
repair harms that have been committed due to the historic and widespread systemic racism embedded in our food system
are innovative and will encourage others to adopt new and more promising practices
will lead to broader community resilience through enhanced food security, community-based solutions, and connectivity
Applicants will define how these funds will be used to improve the resilience on their farm, in their community, and/or for their broader community, with a focus on the social, environmental, and economic impact of the project.
Funding Agency or Organization
NOFA-VT - Northeast Organic Farming Association of Vermont
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
$2,500 per farm
Up to $10,000 for multi-farm applications
Deadline
March
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Non-profit
Project Categories
Agriculture, Climate & Environmental Justice, Conservation, Economic Development, Equity and Social Justice
Federal Rehabilitation Investment Tax Credit
A credit for 20% of a taxpayer's income tax is available for the rehabilitation of historic, income-producing buildings that listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Eligible rehabilitation costs include labor, materials and architects or other consultant fees. Make sure to check the
program application fees
Funding Agency or Organization
ACCD - Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development
Local Match Requirement
Application fees apply
Award Amount
20% of eligible expenditures
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Non-profit
Project Categories
Buildings, Economic Development, Historic Preservation, Housing, Infrastructure, Placemaking
Flood Mitigation Assistance
The Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) grant program funds states, local communities, and territories to reduce or eliminate the risk of repetitive flood damage to buildings and structures insured under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). There are three categories of funding: Capacity and Capability Building, Localized Flood Risk Reduction, and Individual Flood Mitigation Projects (buyouts).
Funding Agency or Organization
FEMA - Federal Emergency Management Agency, VEM - Vermont Emergency Management
Local Match Requirement
10% to 25%
Award Amount
No maximum
Deadline
January
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, State
Project Categories
Buildings, Climate & Environmental Justice, Emergency Management, Planning, Water Quality
Flood Resilient Communities Fund
The Flood Resilient Communities Fund (FRCF) was established by the Vermont Legislature under Act 74. It supports landscape improvement, community resilience, and reducing the future public safety and water quality impacts of climate-related flood hazards in Vermont. The voluntary program focusing on buyouts of flood-vulnerable properties prioritizes projects in communities and/or for homeowners with greatest economic need. It also prioritizes projects that mitigate repetitive loss among low-income and marginalized portions of the population.
Funding Agency or Organization
FEMA - Federal Emergency Management Agency, VEM - Vermont Emergency Management
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
No Minimum or maximum
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Yes
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, State
Project Categories
Climate & Environmental Justice, Emergency Management, Infrastructure, Planning, Water Quality
Forest Economy Program
The purpose of this program is to support the forest-based economy, and to assist in the industry’s evolution to include new technologies and viable business models across the 4-state Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) region. Whether funded directly or through partnerships, funds will be awarded to support projects in the forest economy, which may include one (or multiple) of the following: 1) community development; 2) workforce (re)training and development; 3) marketing/communication and education; 4) business planning and technical assistance; and 5) public infrastructure.
Funding Agency or Organization
NBRC - Northern Border Regional Commission
Local Match Requirement
20-50% depending on economic distress criteria: https://www.nbrc.gov/content/project-match
Award Amount
$1,000,000 maximum
Deadline
February or April
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Conservation, Economic Development, Engagement, Infrastructure, Transportation
Grassroots Fund
The Grassroots Fund's grant programs are designed to energize and nurture long term civic engagement in local initiatives that create and maintain healthy, just, safe and environmentally sustainable communities.
Funding Agency or Organization
Grassroots Fund
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Seed Grants: $500-$1,000; Grow Grants: $1,000-$4,000
Deadline
Rolling for Seed Grants March and December for Grow / Young Leaders Grants
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Engagement, Equity and Social Justice
GMP Workplace Charging Program
Green Mountain Power (GMP) provides a turnkey package service to install electric vehicle charging equipment for commercial customers within its service area. The program covers the equipment, installation, software, project management, and maintenance of a Level 2 charger with financing available through the
Vermont Economic Development Authority EV Charging Station Loan Program
Funding Agency or Organization
GMP - Green Mountain Power
Local Match Requirement
$45 per month per charger
Award Amount
N/A
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Buildings, Economic Development, Energy, Infrastructure, Transportation
Greening Schools on Arbor Day Grant
Horsford's Nursery and the Vermont Urban and Community Forestry (VT UCF) Program offer Greening Schools grants for to 10 school campuses in
Chittenden and Addison Counties
to plant one large shade or ornamental tree to celebrate Vermont Arbor Day (the first Friday in May).
Funding Agency or Organization
VT UCF - Vermont Urban and Community Forestry
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Estimated value $30 - $600
Deadline
April
Competitive?
Yes
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, School
Project Categories
Conservation, Placemaking
Hazard Mitigation Grant Program
Provides grants to implement long-term hazard mitigation actions that reduce structure damage or loss of life due to natural disasters. Examples include upsizing culverts, floodproofing buildings and mitigation planning.
Funding Agency or Organization
FEMA - Federal Emergency Management Agency, VEM - Vermont Emergency Management
Local Match Requirement
10% to 25%
Award Amount
No maximum
Deadline
State Deadline - November
National Deadline - Varies
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Climate & Environmental Justice, Emergency Management, Infrastructure, Planning, Transportation
Health Equity and Community Design Technical Assistance
The Health Equity and Community Design Technical Assistance (TA) Pilot provides additional capacity and resources for communities to develop healthy community design, placemaking plans, and projects that center on equity. The TA also helps prepare communities to apply for DHCDs
Better Places placemaking grants
Funding Agency or Organization
ACCD - Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development, VDH - VT Department of Health
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Up to 80 hours of specialized, on-demand technical assistance
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Accessibility, Engagement, Equity and Social Justice, Placemaking, Planning, Public Health, Transportation
Historic Preservation Grants
For the repair and restoration of historic buildings listed or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places.
Funding Agency or Organization
ACCD - Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development
Local Match Requirement
50%
Award Amount
Min - $1,000
Max - $20,000
Deadline
First Monday in October
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Buildings, Economic Development, Historic Preservation, Housing, Placemaking
Human Services and Educational Facilities
For shovel-ready capital costs associated with the major maintenance, renovation, and development of facilities used for human services and health care, or educational opportunities.
Funding Agency or Organization
BGS - Vermont Department of Buildings and General Services
Local Match Requirement
50%
Award Amount
Min - $1,000 Max - $25,000
Deadline
September
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Buildings, Economic Development, Public Health
Inflation Reduction Act Tax Credits and Deductions
Unique provisions in the federal Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022 opened federal tax credits and incentives to municipalities and other tax-exempt entities for clean vehicle purchases, clean energy and infrastructure development, and energy efficient building improvements. These incentives can lower the total cost of projects substantially when their requirements are incorporated into the project’s development. There are two ways that municipalities can utilize the credits: Direct Pay (refund) through a form to be provided by the IRS, or Transfer of Credit (or sale) to an eligible taxpayer. The Vermont League of Cities and Towns has published
additional information about IRA tax credits for municipalities
Funding Agency or Organization
IRS - US Internal Revenue Service
Local Match Requirement
N/A
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
TBD
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Buildings, Energy, Infrastructure, Transportation
Innovative Clean Energy: Fossil Loan Guarantee
The Fossil Projects track of the Innovative Clean Energy Loan Guarantee Program helps eliminate gaps in commercial financing for energy projects in the United States that utilize innovative technology to reduce, avoid, or sequester greenhouse gas emissions. The Fossil Loan Guarantee is limited to
projects specific to fossil fuel innovations
such as carbon capture, low-carbon power, efficiency, energy storage, hydrogen fuel cells, liquefied or compressed natural gas, alternative vehicle fuel distribution, and pollution control. It can also be used for distributed energy projects such as combined heat and power, coal bed methane, syngas, methane recovery / landfill gas, and distributed carbon capture and use.
Funding Agency or Organization
DOE - US Department of Energy
Local Match Requirement
Varied interest rates / fees apply
Award Amount
Unlimited
Deadline
March
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Electric Utility, Non-profit
Project Categories
Economic Development, Energy, Infrastructure
Innovative Clean Energy Loan Guarantee
The Innovative Clean Energy Loan Guarantee Program helps eliminate gaps in commercial financing for energy projects in the United States that utilize innovative technology to reduce, avoid, or sequester greenhouse gas emissions. The program is limited to
non-fossil energy projects
, such as solar, wind, hydro, geothermal and networked geothermal, and hydrogen. It can also be used for carbon reduction, avoidance, and sequestration projects. Examples include energy storage, carbon capture, pollution control, and efficient electrical, end-use management, and fuel-efficient vehicles (including advanced diesel).
Funding Agency or Organization
DOE - US Department of Energy
Local Match Requirement
Varied interest rates / fees apply
Award Amount
Unlimited
Deadline
March
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Electric Utility, Non-profit
Project Categories
Economic Development, Energy, Infrastructure
Intermediary Relending Program
This program provides 1 percent low-interest loans to local lenders or “intermediaries” that re-lend to businesses to improve economic conditions and create jobs in rural communities.
Funding Agency or Organization
USDA-RD - US Department of Agriculture Rural Development
Local Match Requirement
Min - 5%
Award Amount
Max - $2 million
Deadline
Rolling - Quarterly
Competitive?
Yes
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC
Project Categories
Economic Development, Water and Wastewater
Lake Champlain Basin Education & Outreach RFP
LCBP seeks proposals for projects that will inform students or adults about key Lake Champlain Basin issues and directly support the Informed & Involved Public goals of
Opportunities for Action: An Evolving Plan for the Future of the Lake Champlain Basin
. The objective is to develop awareness, knowledge, skills, and commitment on a Basin issue so that informed decisions and constructive actions will benefit Lake Champlain. Hands-on stewardship activities for citizens are strongly encouraged.
Funding Agency or Organization
LCBP - Lake Champlain Basin Program
Local Match Requirement
Not required but beneficial
Award Amount
Small Projects: up to $15,000; Large Projects: $15,000 - $50,000
Deadline
Varies
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Conservation District, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC
Project Categories
Conservation, Engagement, Water Quality
Land Acquisition and Conservation Grants
This grant supports projects resulting in the acquisition of the fee simple interest or conservation easements that provide high value in furtherance of LCBP’s Clean Water, Healthy Ecosystems, Thriving Communities, or Informed and Involved Public Goals. Such projects include the acquisition of lands or conservation easements that protect or improve water quality and aquatic habitat, mitigate the adverse effects of climate change, or provide climate resiliency. Opportunities for increasing access for public recreation will be considered as a co-benefit, but not a primary benefit, of land acquisition or conservation easements support through this program.
Funding Agency or Organization
LCBP - Lake Champlain Basin Program
Local Match Requirement
None required but encouraged
Award Amount
$100,000 - $2,000,000
Deadline
May 1, 2024 at 12:00pm noon
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Conservation, Recreation, Water Quality
Land and Water Conservation Fund
Assists in acquiring land for parks and public outdoor recreation, as well as the development of new facilities and/or renovations of existing facilities or outdoor recreation. Projects must meet an identified need within the
Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP)
Funding Agency or Organization
ANR - Vermont Agency of Natural Resources
Local Match Requirement
50%
Award Amount
$25,000 - $1,000,000
Deadline
December
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, State
Project Categories
Conservation, Economic Development
Landscape Scale Restoration Grant
This program supports “high impact projects that lead to measurable outcomes on the landscape, leverage public and private resources, and
further priorities identified in each State Forest Action Plan or equivalent restoration strategy.” The project scale must be the most  appropriate size based on the land ownerships and desired outcomes for the landscape, and may include single, multistate, or cross-regional projects.
Funding Agency or Organization
USFS - United States Forest Service
Local Match Requirement
50%
Award Amount
$25,000 - $600,000
Deadline
November
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Non-profit, RPC, School, State
Project Categories
Conservation, Water Quality
Leahy Institute for Rural Partnerships Grants
The Leahy Institute for Rural Partnerships will fund project costs associated with engaged partnerships between organizations and the University of Vermont. Through this funding initiative, UVM will join as partners with Vermont leaders who are working towards impactful solutions to rural challenges in priority focus areas:
Regenerative Agriculture
Community Schools
Transit & Housing Solutions
Remote & Co-Working Practices
Resilient Energy Systems
Healthy Ecosystems
Access to Health Care in Rural Areas
Policy & Governance
Organizations may apply for the following funding tiers to support partnership efforts:
Capacity Grants
(Up to $10,000) will catalyze partnership and project development This is the entry track for organizations who have a vision for positive rural impact but need support to develop a relationship with University of Vermont partners.
Seed Grants
(Up to $300,000) will fund research projects, stakeholder engagement initiatives, student internships and service-learning experiences, and business plan development for early-stage start-ups and non-profit businesses working to address rural challenges.
Funding Agency or Organization
UVM - University of Vermont
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Capacity Grants: up to $100,000; Seed Grants: up to $300,000
Deadline
LOI: September; Proposal: November
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Conservation District, EDD - Economic Development District, Electric Utility, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, School, State, Transit Agency
Project Categories
Agriculture, Climate & Environmental Justice, Conservation, Energy, Equity & Social Justice, Housing, Planning, Public Health, Transportation, Water Quality
Levitt Music Series Grants
Levitt Music Series Grants are an exciting multi-year matching grant program made possible by the Levitt Foundation, a national creative placemaking funder dedicated to strengthening the social fabric of America through the power of free, live music. As a foundation committed to building community through music, Levitt Music Series Grants revitalize underused public spaces, ensure access to the arts and create welcoming gathering places that foster belonging and connections among people of all ages and backgrounds.
Levitt Music Series grantees are U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits that receive three-year matching grants of up to $40K per year, for a total grant award of up to $120K, to present 7-10 free concerts each year that inject new life into underused public spaces, creating joyous, inclusive community destinations in towns and cities of all sizes.
Funding Agency or Organization
Levitt Foundation
Local Match Requirement
50%
Award Amount
Up to $40,000 per year for 3 years (up to $120,000 total)
Deadline
June 30, 2025
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Non-profit
Project Categories
Accessibility, Art, Placemaking
Libraries Capital Projects and Preservation Initiatives Grants
Funding provided by the U.S. Treasury through the Vermont Department of Libraries will address critical building improvements to ensure Vermonters have continued access to high-speed Internet to directly enable work, education, and health monitoring at their local public libraries. Additional funding through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development will support repair and mitigation needs in small, rural public libraries that also serve as community meeting spaces and public facilities, with a focus on economically depressed areas.
Funding Agency or Organization
DOL - VT Department of Libraries, HUD - US Department of Housing and Urban Development, U.S. Treasury
Local Match Requirement
TBD
Award Amount
Varies (appx. $113 million allocated to VT)
Deadline
TBD
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, School
Project Categories
Accessibility, Broadband and Telecommunications, Buildings, Historic Preservation, Infrastructure
Local Development Corporation Loan Program
This program provides financing to nonprofit local and regional development corporations to build facilities for lease to identified eligible tenants, or to plan and/or develop industrial parks.
Funding Agency or Organization
VEDA - Vermont Economic Development Authority
Local Match Requirement
See loan rates and terms
Award Amount
No maximum
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC
Project Categories
Buildings, Economic Development, Infrastructure, Planning
Multimodal Project Discretionary Grants – INFRA
INFRA (Infrastructure for Rebuilding America), also known as the Nationally Significant Multimodal Freight & Highway Projects program, awards competitive grants for multimodal freight and highway projects of national or regional significance. Projects improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of the movement of freight and people in and across rural and urban areas. Applicants should review the
combined MPDG Notice of Funding Opportunity
for details. Eligible projects include:
A highway freight project on the National Highway Freight Network
A highway or bridge project on the National Highway System
A freight intermodal, freight rail, or freight project within the boundaries of a public or private freight rail, water (including ports), or intermodal facility and that is a surface transportation infrastructure project necessary to facilitate direct intermodal interchange, transfer, or access into or out of the facility
A highway-railway grade crossing or grade separation project
A wildlife crossing project
A surface transportation project within the boundaries or functionally connected to an international border crossing that improves a facility owned by Fed/State/local government and increases throughput efficiency
A project for a marine highway corridor that is functionally connected to the NHFN and is likely to reduce road mobile source emissions
A highway, bridge, or freight project on the National Multimodal Freight Network
Funding Agency or Organization
USDOT - US Department of Transportation
Local Match Requirement
40% (other federal assistance can provide additional 20% match)
Award Amount
$83 million for large projects; No minimum for small projects
Deadline
August
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, RPC, State
Project Categories
Economic Development, Infrastructure, Transportation
Multimodal Project Discretionary Grants – MEGA
The Mega Program (the National Infrastructure Project Assistance program) supports large, complex projects that are difficult to fund by other means and likely to generate national or regional economic, mobility, or safety benefits. Applicants should review the
combined MPDG Notice of Funding Opportunity
for details. Eligible projects include:
A highway or bridge project on the National Multimodal Freight Network
A highway or bridge project on the National Highway Freight Network
A highway or bridge project on the National Highway System
A freight intermodal (including public ports) or freight rail project that provides public benefit
A railway highway grade separation or elimination project
An intercity passenger rail project
A public transportation project that is eligible under assistance under Chapter 53 of title 49 and is a part of any of the project types described above
Funding Agency or Organization
USDOT - US Department of Transportation
Local Match Requirement
40% (other federal assistance can provide additional 20% match)
Award Amount
Minimum $100 million
Deadline
August
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, RPC, State
Project Categories
Infrastructure, Transportation
Multimodal Project Discretionary Grants – Rural Surface Transportation
The Rural Surface Transportation Grant Program supports projects that improve and expand the surface transportation infrastructure in rural areas, defined as areas outside a Census Bureau designated Urbanized Area with a population of over 200,000. Projects help increase connectivity, improve the safety and reliability of the movement of people and freight, and generate regional economic growth and improve quality of life. Applicants should review the
combined MPDG Notice of Funding Opportunity
for details. Eligible projects include:
A highway, bridge, or tunnel project eligible under National Highway Performance Program
A highway, bridge, or tunnel project eligible under Surface Transportation Block Grant
A highway, bridge, or tunnel project eligible under Tribal Transportation Program
A highway freight project eligible under National Highway Freight Program
A highway safety improvement project, including a project to improve a high risk rural road as defined by the Highway Safety Improvement Program
A project on a publicly-owned highway or bridge that provides or increases access to an agricultural, commercial, energy, or intermodal facility that supports the economy of a rural area
A project to develop, establish, or maintain an integrated mobility management system, a transportation demand management system, or on-demand mobility services
Funding Agency or Organization
USDOT - US Department of Transportation
Local Match Requirement
20%
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
August
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, RPC, State
Project Categories
Economic Development, Infrastructure, Transportation
Municipal Equipment Loan Fund
The Municipal Equipment Loan Fund was created for the purpose of providing loans on favorable terms to municipalities for the purchase of construction, fire, emergency or heavy equipment or vehicles. The amount loaned shall be no more than 75% of the purchase price of the equipment and shall be repaid in no more than five years. For loans to a single municipality the interest rate is two percent. For loans to two or more municipalities jointly purchasing equipment, there shall be no interest assessed. The Municipal Equipment Loan Fund is governed by
Vermont Statute Title 29, Chapter 61.
Funding Agency or Organization
Vermont State Treasurer
Local Match Requirement
25%
Award Amount
Up to $150,000
Deadline
April 15 and October 15
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Emergency Management, Infrastructure, Transportation
Municipal Highway and Stormwater Mitigation Grant Program
This reimbursement program funds municipal environmental mitigation activities related to highway construction or due to highway runoff, including stormwater management and control as well as water pollution prevention and pollution abatement.
Funding Agency or Organization
VTrans - Vermont Agency of Transportation
Local Match Requirement
20%
Award Amount
No minimum or maximum
Deadline
October
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Transportation, Water Quality
Municipal Park and Ride Grant Program
Supports the engineering and construction of small municipal owned park and ride facilities to reduce the number of single occupancy vehicles on the roadway.
Funding Agency or Organization
VTrans - Vermont Agency of Transportation
Local Match Requirement
Varies
Award Amount
No min or max
Deadline
September
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Energy, Infrastructure, Transportation
Municipal Planning Grants
Supports a wide range of projects relating to planning and land use, and promotes cooperation, collaboration and the exchange of ideas. Eligible projects must have a clear connection to planning and implementation of the municipal plan and will be reviewed for conformance with the Regional Plan, as well as statewide smart growth principles, planning goals, and land use policies. All applications must be submitted by the municipality. This includes all applications potentially involving another benefitting entity (business or non-profit).
Funding Agency or Organization
ACCD - Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development
Local Match Requirement
10% minimum - cash
Award Amount
Up to $30,000 ($45,000 for consortium)
Deadline
March
Competitive?
Competitive. Based on regional allocation.
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Buildings, Conservation, Economic Development, Engagement, Housing, Infrastructure, Placemaking, Planning, Water and Wastewater
Municipal Reinvestment Pilot Program
The VLCT Municipal Reinvestment Pilot Program provides investment funding for eligible Vermont entities to catalyze community and economic development projects that will bolster the long-term viability of VLCT member communities. Proposals must demonstrate they are directly helping a municipality by addressing one or more of the following criteria:
Expanding the availability of housing by constructing new housing or rehabilitating existing housing
Reducing the effects of climate change in a community, by addressing energy costs and consumption and improving resiliency
Reducing a municipality’s risk of property loss
Expanding the availability of broadband, especially to municipal buildings
Expanding municipal capacity
Reducing the borrowing costs to municipalities to purchase equipment, make improvements, or provide services
Funding Agency or Organization
VLCT - Vermont League of Cities and Towns
Local Match Requirement
Leveraging of other funds required
Award Amount
Minimum: $500,000 Maximum: $1.5 million
Deadline
June 16, 2023
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Broadband and Telecommunications, Buildings, Climate & Environmental Justice, Economic Development, Housing, Infrastructure
Municipal Roads Grants-in-Aid Program
The intent of this program is to provide funding for municipalities to manage improve stormwater quality by implementing best management practices (BMPs) on municipal roads in compliance with the DEC's Municipal Roads General Permit (MRGP).
Funding Agency or Organization
VTrans - Vermont Agency of Transportation
Local Match Requirement
20% - cash or in-kind
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
June
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Transportation, Water Quality
National Trust for Historic Preservation (NTHP) – Various Grants
NTHP's annual grants support repair and restoration of historic agricultural buildings listed or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places.
Funding Agency or Organization
NTHP - National Trust of Historic Preservation
Local Match Requirement
Varies
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
Varies
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Buildings, Economic Development, Equity and Social Justice, Historic Preservation
Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP)
Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) is one of three grant programs that constitute DHS/FEMA’s focus on enhancing the ability of state, local, tribal, and territorial governments, as well as nonprofits, to prevent, protect against, respond to and recover from terrorist attacks. These grant programs are part of a comprehensive set of measures authorized by Congress and implemented by DHS to help strengthen the nation’s communities against potential terrorist attacks.
Funding Agency or Organization
FEMA - Federal Emergency Management Agency, VEM - Vermont Emergency Management
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
December
Deadline
Max per site - $200,000; Max per applicant - $600,000
Competitive?
Yes
Eligible Organizations
Non-profit
Project Categories
Emergency Management, Infrastructure, Public Safety
Northern Border Catalyst Program
The Catalyst Program stimulates growth and inspires partnerships for rural economic vitality in the northern border region (Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and New York). These projects will be partially funded through the
Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA)
. Current investment priorities include projects that benefit underrepresented communities, address multiple needs or categories, and that adapt to changing climate and extreme weather.
Funding Agency or Organization
NBRC - Northern Border Regional Commission
Local Match Requirement
20% for "distressed" counties; 50% for "transitional" counties
Award Amount
Infrastructure: up to $1 million; Multi-jurisdiction infrastructure: up to $3 million; Non-Infrastructure: up to $500,000
Deadline
March and September
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Broadband and Telecommunications, Conservation, Economic Development, Energy, Infrastructure, Planning, Public Health, Recreation, Transportation, Water and Wastewater
PACIF Grant
PACIF is Vermont's leading provider of Property & Casualty and Workers' Compensation coverage to municipal entities. Available to current PACIF members, 2025 PACIF Grants reimburse members for up to 50% of pre-approved purchases that are intended to reduce the likelihood of PACIF claims. Applications are accepted and considered on a rolling basis from January 1 until all available funds have been awarded or October 31, whichever comes first.
Be sure to read the latest PACIF Grant Requirements document carefully before applying for a grant. Details of eligibility generally change from year to year, so it is important to understand the current year's requirements and expectations.
Funding Agency or Organization
VLCT - Vermont League of Cities and Towns
Local Match Requirement
50%
Award Amount
$300-$6,000 depending on PACIF contribution
Deadline
January 1
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, School
Project Categories
Buildings, Public Safety, Water and Wastewater
Vermont Livable Community Program – Placemaking Grants
Provides funding for small projects that are focused on reinventing a space that improves the safety, accessibility and overall appeal and are either temporary or permanent projects to have a positive impact on older adults living in your community.
Funding Agency or Organization
AARP
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Max - $4,000
Deadline
October
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC
Project Categories
Economic Development, Planning, Transportation
Planning and Local Technical Assistance Programs
Under the Planning program EDA assists eligible recipients in creating regional economic development plans designed to build capacity and guide the economic prosperity and resiliency of an area or region. The Local Technical Assistance program strengthens the capacity of local or State organizations, institutions of higher education, and other eligible recipients to undertake and promote effective economic development programs through projects such as feasibility analyses and impact studies.
Funding Agency or Organization
EDA - US Economic Development Administration
Local Match Requirement
50%-80%
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, School, State
Project Categories
Economic Development, Planning
Pooled Loan Program
The Pooled Loan Program has provided over $2 billion in low-cost loans to Vermont
governmental units
for long-term capital projects over its 50-year history. Loans are primarily funded through the issuance of
highly rated tax-exempt bonds
by the Bond Bank.
Common uses
of loans issued through the program include:
Facilities renovation and construction projects
Road and highway improvements
Energy efficiency upgrades
Equipment purchases
General infrastructure
Loans are made through the Pooled Loan Program in the winter and summer following the receipt of an application and approval by the Bond Bank’s Board.
Funding Agency or Organization
Vermont Bond Bank
Local Match Requirement
0%
Award Amount
Unlimited, except by borrower debt capacity
Deadline
February and July
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, School
Project Categories
Buildings, Energy, Infrastructure, Transportation, Water and Wastewater
Preservation Assistance Grants for Smaller Institutions
Preservation Assistance Grants help small and mid-sized organizations preserve and manage humanities collections, ensuring their significance for a variety of users, including source communities, humanities researchers, students, and the public, by building their capacity to identify and address physical and intellectual preservation risks.
The Preservation Assistance Grants for Smaller Institutions program focuses on foundational activities in preservation and management of collections, such as assessments, development of plans and policies, consultations with scholars and source communities, emergency preparedness, environmental monitoring, rehousing, format surveys and inventories, and training in preservation and collections management.
Funding Agency or Organization
NEH - National Endowment for the Humanities
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Up to $10,000
Deadline
January
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, School
Project Categories
Art, Buildings, Historic Preservation
Preservation Trust of Vermont
To preserve and rehabilitate historic buildings.
Funding Agency or Organization
PTV - Preservation Trust of Vermont
Local Match Requirement
Varies
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
Varies
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Buildings, Economic Development, Historic Preservation, Housing
PROTECT Formula and Discretionary Grants
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) established the Promoting Resilient Operations for Transformative, Efficient, and Cost-Saving Transportation (PROTECT) Program to help make surface transportation more resilient to natural hazards, including climate change, sea level rise, flooding, extreme weather events, and other natural disasters through support of planning activities, resilience improvements, community resilience and evacuation routes, and at-risk costal infrastructure. The PROTECT Program consists of a Formula program for states and a Discretionary Grant program; both programs support the following specific activities:
Planning Grants for Resilience Improvement Plans
Resilience Improvement Grants for implementation / construction
Community Resilience and Evacuation Route Grants
At-Risk Coastal Infrastructure Grants
Funding Agency or Organization
USDOT - US Department of Transportation
Local Match Requirement
Planning: 0% Other tracks: 20%
Award Amount
Planning: minimum $100,000; no maximum Other tracks: minimum $500,000; no maximum
Deadline
August 18, 2023
Competitive?
Competitive and Non-Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, RPC, State
Project Categories
Climate & Environmental Justice, Emergency Management, Infrastructure, Transportation
Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance Program
This program supports economic development, foster job creation, and attract private investment in economically distressed areas through providing investments that support construction, non-construction, planning, technical assistance, and revolving loan fund projects. Examples of Public Works category projects include critical infrastructure and facilities such as water and sewer, telecommunications, brownfields redevelopment, workforce training facilities, industrial and research parks, shipping and logistics facilities, and business incubators and accelerators. Examples of Economic Adjustment Assistance category projects include launching economic diversification strategies in declining industries, or construction of multi-tenant facilities for early-stage businesses.
Funding Agency or Organization
EDA - US Economic Development Administration
Local Match Requirement
20% to 50%
Award Amount
Min - $100,000 Max - $30 million
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Brownfields, Buildings, Economic Development, Infrastructure, Planning, Water and Wastewater
REAP Energy Audit & Renewable Energy Development Assistance Grants
This part of the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) assists rural small businesses and agricultural producers by conducting and promoting energy audits and providing Renewable Energy Development Assistance (REDA). Assistance provided must consist of: energy audits, renewable energy technical assistance, and renewable energy site assessments.
Funding Agency or Organization
USDA-RD - US Department of Agriculture Rural Development
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Max - $100,000
Deadline
January
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Electric Utility, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Agriculture, Buildings, Economic Development, Energy, Infrastructure
REAP Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency Improvement Loans / Grants
This part of the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) provides guaranteed loan financing and grant funding to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems or to make energy efficiency improvements.
Funding Agency or Organization
USDA-RD - US Department of Agriculture Rural Development
Local Match Requirement
Grants - 50%Loan guarantee - see details
Award Amount
Renewable Grant Program: Min - $2,500 Max - $1 million Efficiency Grant Program: Min - $1,500 Max - $500,000Loans: see website
Deadline
Various
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Non-profit
Project Categories
Agriculture, Buildings, Economic Development, Energy, Infrastructure
Recreation Economy for Rural Communities (RERC)
Recognizing that outdoor recreation is a large and growing sector of the economy nationwide, the RERC program was developed in 2019 to provide planning assistance to small towns and rural communities to help them boost their outdoor recreation economy and revitalize their main streets. The RERC planning assistance process involves developing a local steering committee in each partner community and pairing them with a team of federal agency partners and consultants to identify the community's vision, goals, and actions they wish to take to boost outdoor recreation, revitalize their main streets, and promote equitable access to the outdoors for residents and visitors alike. The process involves several planning calls, a community workshop, and several follow-up implementation calls. Through the planning process, all partner communities develop a Community Action Plan, which identifies specific actions and next steps.
Funding Agency or Organization
EPA - US Environmental Protection Agency
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
N/A (Technical Assistance)
Deadline
TBD
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC
Project Categories
Economic Development, Engagement, Planning, Recreation
Recreational Facilities Grant Program
Grants for the development and creation of community recreational opportunities.
Funding Agency or Organization
BGS - Vermont Department of Buildings and General Services
Local Match Requirement
50%
Award Amount
Min - $1,000 Max - $25,000
Deadline
September
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Accessibility, Buildings, Infrastructure, Recreation
Recreational Trails Grant Program
Grants support the acquisition, maintenance, restoration, design and construction of recreational trails and associated amenities and education. Both motorized and non-motorized trail projects may qualify for RTP funds.
Funding Agency or Organization
ANR - Vermont Agency of Natural Resources
Local Match Requirement
20%
Award Amount
Max - $50,000
Deadline
Pre-application - December; Application - February
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Accessibility, Recreation, Transportation
Recycling Education and Outreach Grant
Projects funded through the Recycling Education and Outreach Grant Program program will:
• Inform the public about residential or community recycling or composting programs.
• Provide information about the materials that are accepted as part of residential or community recycling or composting programs.
• Increase collection rates and decrease contamination across the nation.
Funding Agency or Organization
EPA - US Environmental Protection Agency
Local Match Requirement
None required but considered in award
Award Amount
$250,000 to $2,000,000
Deadline
February
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Conservation, Engagement, Public Health
REDI (Rural Economic Development Initiative)
REDI promotes and and facilitates economic development in Vermont communities with under 5,000 people using targeted capacity grants to municipalities and small businesses. Assistance includes grant writing consulting / technical assistance and fundraising planning in program areas of working lands, outdoor recreation, community-based economic development, and implementation projects / federal funding.
Funding Agency or Organization
VHCB - Vermont Housing and Conservation Board
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
$1,000 - $6,000
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Agriculture, Conservation, Economic Development, Placemaking, Planning, Recreation, Water Quality
Regional Economic Development Grant Program
State grants for capital costs associated with major maintenance, renovation, or planning related to the development of facilities reasonably expected to create or retain job opportunities in Vermont communities.
Funding Agency or Organization
BGS - Vermont Department of Buildings and General Services
Local Match Requirement
50%
Award Amount
Min - $1,000
Max - $25,000
Deadline
September
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC
Project Categories
Buildings, Economic Development, Infrastructure
Resilient and Connected Appalachians Grant Program
The Nature Conservancy's (TNC) offers grants of up to $50,000 to support projects that result in the permanent protection of Resilient and Connected lands in focal landscapes of the Appalachians—a center of climate resilience and a critical migration corridor for wildlife. Eligible projects must result in fee or easement acquisitions of Resilient and Connected lands within TNC's identified
focal landscapes
. Projects funded by the Resilient and Connected Appalachians Grant Program should incorporate planning and actions that ensure equitable outcomes and a fairer distribution of climate-resilient benefits.
Funding Agency or Organization
TNC - The Nature Conservancy
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Up to $50,000
Deadline
February
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Climate & Environmental Justice, Conservation, Planning
Revolving Funds for Financing Water and Wastewater Projects
This program helps qualified nonprofits create revolving loan funds that can provide financing to extend and improve water and waste disposal systems in rural areas. Grant funds may be used to create a revolving loan fund for eligible water and wastewater systems operated by state and local government entities, nonprofits, and Indian tribes on federal and state reservations and other federally recognized Indian tribes. Eligible areas include rural areas and towns with populations of 10,000 or less (check
eligible addresses
), tribal lands in rural areas, and colonias.
Funding Agency or Organization
USDA-RD - US Department of Agriculture Rural Development
Local Match Requirement
20%
Award Amount
No minimum or maximum
Deadline
August
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Non-profit
Project Categories
Water and Wastewater
Rural Business Development Grants
This program is designed to provide technical assistance and training for small rural businesses. Small means that the business has fewer than 50 new workers and less than $1 million in gross revenue.
Funding Agency or Organization
USDA-RD - US Department of Agriculture Rural Development
Local Match Requirement
None (more to be competitive)
Award Amount
Max - $30,000 ($250,000 in NEK)
Deadline
June
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Economic Development
Rural Cooperative Development Grants
The purpose of the RCDG program is to enable nonprofit institutions to establish and operate centers for rural cooperative development (Center). The primary objective of the program is to improve the economic condition of rural areas by helping nonprofit organizations who in turn provide technical assistance to start, expand, or improve cooperatives and mutually owned businesses in rural areas.
The goals of a Center funded under this subsection shall be to facilitate the creation of jobs in rural areas through the development of new rural cooperatives, value added processing, and rural businesses.
Funding Agency or Organization
USDA-NIFA - US Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Local Match Requirement
25%
Award Amount
Up to $1,000,000
Deadline
September
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Non-profit
Project Categories
Agriculture, Economic Development
Rural Decentralized Water System Grant
This program provides grant funding to qualified nonprofits, including tribally owned nonprofits, to create a revolving loan fund or to award sub-grants to homeowners for supporting access to individually owned water and wastewater services in eligible rural areas. Grant funds may be used to help a nonprofit create a revolving loan fund for eligible individuals who own and occupy a home in an eligible rural area. The fund may be used to construct, refurbish, or service individually owned household water well and decentralized wastewater systems. Terms for the loans include one percent fixed interest rate, 20-year maximum term, and $15,000 maximum loan per household. The nonprofit may also award subgrants for the same purposes to eligible individuals meeting certain conditions. Eligible areas include rural areas and towns with populations of 50,000 or less - check
eligible addresses
Funding Agency or Organization
USDA-RD - US Department of Agriculture Rural Development
Local Match Requirement
10%
Award Amount
No minimum or maximum
Deadline
December 1
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Non-profit
Project Categories
Water and Wastewater
Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Program
The Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant program funds local utility organizations to support rural economic development through business incubators / expansions and start-up venture costs, facilities and equipment, community development assistance, and technical assistance. The program includes grants for revolving loan funds as well as zero-interest loans to local utilities which they, in turn, pass through to local businesses.
Funding Agency or Organization
USDA-RD - US Department of Agriculture Rural Development
Local Match Requirement
20%
Award Amount
Max - $300,000 for grants
Max - $2 million for loans
Deadline
Quarterly
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Electric Utility, Non-profit
Project Categories
Buildings, Economic Development, Infrastructure, Planning
Rural Energy Pilot Program Grant
The Rural Energy Pilot Program (REPP) grant offers financial assistance for rural communities to further develop renewable energy. REPP grant funds can be used to support:
Community energy planning, capacity building, and technical assistance
Community efficiency and weatherization
Installation and equipping of community-scale renewable energy technologies and systems
Funding Agency or Organization
USDA-RD - US Department of Agriculture Rural Development
Local Match Requirement
Min - 20%
Award Amount
Max - $2 million
Deadline
Notice of Intent - April
Application - July
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Buildings, Energy, Infrastructure, Planning
Rural Energy Savings Program
The Rural Energy Savings Program (RESP) provides loans to rural utilities and other companies who provide energy efficiency loans to qualified consumers to implement durable cost-effective energy efficiency measures.
Funding Agency or Organization
USDA-RD - US Department of Agriculture Rural Development
Local Match Requirement
N/A - see loan details
Award Amount
No maximum
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Electric Utility, Non-profit
Project Categories
Buildings, Economic Development, Energy, Infrastructure
Rural Fire Protection
The goals of the program are to:
Save lives, by reducing response time and improving both public and firefighter safety.
Enable fire fighters to have quicker, easier and safer year round drafting capability.
Reduce risks to property and natural resources, both private and public.
Lower insurance premiums, both private and public.
Funding Agency or Organization
VACD - Vermont Association of Conservation Districts
Local Match Requirement
25%
Award Amount
Max $20,000
Deadline
April 1st, June 1st & August 1st.
Competitive?
Yes
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Emergency Management, Infrastructure, Public Safety, Water and Wastewater
Rural Northern Border Region Healthcare Support Program
This initiative funds healthcare providers to help underserved communities in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and New York better address their healthcare needs through the expansion and delivery of new and enhanced services. Examples of desired focus areas for proposed projects may include (but are not limited to):
Mental and behavioral health, healthcare workforce development;
Community health workers, addressing health disparities, rural hospital financial and operational improvement;
Impacts of rural hospital closure;
Care coordination;
Patient engagement, data analytics/health information technology;
Telehealth
Funding Agency or Organization
NBRC - Northern Border Regional Commission
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Up to $225,000
Deadline
June
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Non-profit
Project Categories
Economic Development, Equity and Social Justice, Public Health
Safe Streets and Roads For All (SS4A)
The SS4A program advances a goal of zero deaths and serious injuries on our nation's roadways. The grant program supports planning, infrastructure, behavioral, and operational initiatives to prevent death and serious injury on roads and streets involving all roadway users, including pedestrians; bicyclists; public transportation, personal conveyance, and micromobility users; motorists; and commercial vehicle operators. There are two tracks: Planning & Demonstration Grants and Implementation Grants.
Funding Agency or Organization
USDOT - US Department of Transportation
Local Match Requirement
20%
Award Amount
Planning & Demonstration: $100,000 - $5 million; Implementation: $2.5 million - $25 million
Deadline
June
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, RPC
Project Categories
Infrastructure, Planning, Public Safety, Transportation
SEARCH – Special Evaluation Assistance for Rural Communities and Households
This program helps very small, financially distressed rural communities with predevelopment feasibility studies, design and technical assistance on proposed water and waste disposal projects. Limited to communities (or potential service areas) of less than 2,500 persons with household income below the poverty line or less than 80% of statewide non-MSA median household income.
Funding Agency or Organization
USDA-RD - US Department of Agriculture Rural Development
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Max - $30,000
Deadline
National Pool - April
State Pool - December
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Infrastructure, Planning, Water and Wastewater
Small Grants for Smart Growth
Provides seed money for community-based initiatives related to smart growth, including efforts related to housing, transportation, community revitalization, conservation, public participation, and advocacy.
Funding Agency or Organization
VNRC - Vermont Natural Resources Council
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
$500 - $5,000
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC
Project Categories
Conservation, Engagement, Housing, Placemaking, Planning, Transportation
Small Water System Capacity & Resiliency Program
This program provides funding to plan for and replace drinking water infrastructure in compliance with the
EPA's Drinking Water State Revolving Fund handbook
. The intention of the program is to help small public drinking water systems replace infrastructure at risk of failure. SCRP was created through a State of Vermont ARPA grant in collaboration with the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). All public Vermont drinking water systems serving 10,000 or fewer (largely residential) customers are eligible.
Funding Agency or Organization
Vermont Bond Bank
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Up to $250,000
Deadline
December
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Water and Wastewater
Solid Waste Infrastructure For Recycling (SWIFR)
The Solid Waste for Infrastructure (SWIFR) grant program funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will assist local waste management authorities by supporting improvements to local post-consumer materials management, including municipal recycling programs, and assisting local waste management authorities in making improvements to local waste management systems. Projects will be funded under two tracks:
Track 1: Projects that benefit disadvantaged communities as defined in the Request for Applications.
Track 2: Projects that benefit all other communities that do not meet the definition of disadvantaged communities.
separate application
is provided for tribal governments and intertribal consortia.
Funding Agency or Organization
EPA - US Environmental Protection Agency
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
$500,000 to $4,000,000
Deadline
February
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, RPC
Project Categories
Buildings, Conservation, Infrastructure, Public Health
Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER)
The SAFER Program provides funding directly to fire departments and volunteer firefighter interest organizations to assist in increasing the number of firefighters to help communities meet industry minimum standards and attain 24-hour staffing to provide adequate fire protection from fire and fire-related hazards, and to fulfill traditional missions of fire departments. The Program provides direct funding for firefighter salaries / compensation / benefits as well as training and equipment across two Activity Areas: Hiring and Recruitment and & Retention (R&R).
Funding Agency or Organization
FEMA - Federal Emergency Management Agency
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
June
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC
Project Categories
Emergency Management, Public Safety
State Homeland Security Program (SHSP)
The SHSP supports state, tribal, territorial, and local preparedness activities that address high priority preparedness gaps across all core capabilities that support terrorism preparedness.
Funding Agency or Organization
FEMA - Federal Emergency Management Agency, VEM - Vermont Emergency Management
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
December
Competitive?
Yes
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Emergency Management, Infrastructure, Planning, Public Safety
Strategic Economic and Community Development (SECD) Program
To help advance rural prosperity, applicants submit strategic community investment plans to the SECD Program. This augments funding for regionally impactful applications to other USDA-RD programs, including:
Community Connect Grants
Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program
Community Facilities Guaranteed Loan Program
Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program
Water and Waste Disposal Loan Guarantees
Rural Business Development Grants
Funding Agency or Organization
USDA-RD - US Department of Agriculture Rural Development
Local Match Requirement
Underlying program requirements
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
Underlying program date
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Accessibility, Broadband and Telecommunications, Buildings, Economic Development, Emergency Management, Housing, Infrastructure, Public Health, Water and Wastewater
Stream Wise Assessment Grants
Stream Wise
is designed to inform and engage streamside landowners in protecting and planting native vegetated buffers on their properties to increase stream health, wildlife habitats, and flood resiliency in their local communities.
Funding Agency or Organization
LCBP - Lake Champlain Basin Program
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Up to $15,000
Deadline
December
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Conservation District, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC
Project Categories
Agriculture, Conservation, Water Quality
Student Engagement for a Resilient Vermont (SERV) Grant
The Leahy Institute for Rural Partnerships supports opportunities for students to participate in community-engaged learning and the subsequent opportunities that arise from partnerships that center both community needs and student experience. The SERV Grant program provides 14 months of support for faculty and community partners to develop, carry out, and report impact on a new or existing community-engaged learning opportunity.
Funding Agency or Organization
Leahy Institute for Rural Partnerships
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Technical assistance (provides between $1,000-$10,000 for faculty)
Deadline
May 1, 2026
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, School
Project Categories
Agriculture, Climate & Environmental Justice, Emergency Management, Energy, Housing, Transportation
Subgrants for Substance Misuse Prevention
Vermont Department of Health (VDH) Division of Substance Use Programs (DSU) has awarded a grant to United Way of Northwest Vermont (United Way) to serve as the Lead Prevention Organization (LPO) for DSU’s Region 1, covering Burlington, St. Albans, and Barre Health Districts (Chittenden, Franklin, Grand Isle, and Washington Counties). State funds offered through these subgrants are for the purpose of advancing substance misuse prevention, across all ages and substances, by:
preventing the onset of substance misuse,
delaying initiation of substance use,
promoting healthy lifestyles, and
optimizing wellbeing among individuals, families, and communities across the lifespan.
Funding will be allocated through a portfolio of subgrants that collectively will:
sustain existing substance misuse prevention efforts,
build additional prevention capacity, and
fill gap areas to ensure statewide prevention coverage.
Funding Agency or Organization
VDH - VT Department of Health
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
$5,000 - $25,000
Deadline
November
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC
Project Categories
Equity and Social Justice, Public Health, Public Safety
Targeted Brownfields Assessments
The EPA New England Targeted Brownfields Assessments (TBA) program helps municipalities and partnering non-profits redevelop contaminated parcels in their communities. The purpose of a TBA is to minimize the uncertainties surrounding the actual or perceived contamination associated with these sites. It is important that the requestor currently have redevelopment plans for the contaminated property. The request must be for a specific site which the eligible organization currently owns or can obtain ownership through some other means (e.g. tax foreclosure).
Funding Agency or Organization
EPA - US Environmental Protection Agency
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Average $50,000-$100,000
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC
Project Categories
Brownfields, Buildings, Economic Development, Housing, Planning, Public Health
Targeted Violence and Terrorism Prevention Grant
The TVTP Grant Program seeks to fund eligible entities to design and implement sustainable, multidisciplinary projects that enhance targeted violence and terrorism prevention capabilities.
Funding Agency or Organization
DHS - Department of Homeland Security
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Promising Practices Track: $100,000-$800,000; Innovation Track: $300,000-$815,000
Deadline
May
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, School, State
Project Categories
Emergency Management, Public Safety
Tax-Exempt Revenue Bond Program for 501(c)(3) Corporations
Designed to aid certain 501(c)(3) entities by VEDA's issuance of tax-exempt bonds for fixed-asset projects (land, buildings, equipment) that further the mission of the tax-exempt entity. In these projects, VEDA acts as a conduit issuer, thereby enabling eligible borrowers to access the tax-exempt bond market. Because income earned by purchasers of these bonds is exempt from federal and, in some cases, state tax, these bonds traditionally carry lower interest rates and may carry longer terms than conventional bank loans.
Funding Agency or Organization
VEDA - Vermont Economic Development Authority
Local Match Requirement
N/A - see loan details
Award Amount
No maximum
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Non-profit
Project Categories
Buildings, Economic Development, Historic Preservation, Infrastructure, Other
Telecommunications Infrastructure Loans and Loan Guarantees
This program provides financing for the construction, maintenance, improvement and expansion of telephone service and broadband in rural areas (5,000 people or fewer).
Funding Agency or Organization
USDA-RD - US Department of Agriculture Rural Development
Local Match Requirement
N/A - see loan details
Award Amount
No maximum
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Broadband and Telecommunications, Economic Development, Infrastructure
Thriving Communities Program
The Thriving Communities Program will provide two years of deep-dive assistance to help selected communities plan and develop a pipeline of comprehensive transportation, housing, and community revitalization activities. The program also provides peer learning opportunities through assigned Communities of Practice including Main Streets, Complete Neighborhoods, and Networked Communities. During the third year, communities will continue to receive peer learning support as Capacity Builders conduct evaluation, reporting, and transition activities.
Funding Agency or Organization
USDOT - US Department of Transportation
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Varies - Technical Assistance
Deadline
Letters of Intent: 11/15/2023; Full Application: 11/28/2023
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, Transit Agency
Project Categories
Planning, Transportation
Timber for Transit Program
The Timber for Transit Program is designed to advance the use of domestic forest products in transportation infrastructure projects across Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont to showcase the capabilities of wood in these applications. Highly competitive projects will demonstrate and widely promote the utility of high-value forest products (e.g. glued laminated timber, cross laminated timber, composite materials, etc.) in transportation infrastructure and commit to enhancing climate resilience in rural communities.
Funding Agency or Organization
NBRC - Northern Border Regional Commission
Local Match Requirement
20-50% depending on economic distress
Award Amount
Feasibility projects: $250,000 - $1 million; Implementation projects: $1 million - $5 million
Deadline
March or September
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
EDD - Economic Development District, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Conservation, Economic Development, Infrastructure, Transportation
Timber for Transit Program
Northern Borders Regional Commission's Timber for Transit program advances the use of wood materials and composites through applied research and demonstration projects that showcase the suitability of such materials in transportation and transportation adjacent infrastructure, in alignment with state and community initiatives. Highly competitive projects will demonstrate and widely promote the utility of high value forest products (e.g. glued laminated timber, cross laminated timber, composite materials, etc.) in transportation infrastructure and planning for extreme weather readiness. Transportation infrastructure shall mean construction, alteration, or repair, for the purpose of transporting people and goods, including fixed installations and rights of way necessary for transporting from one point to another, including infrastructure that improves economic mobility for individuals, and may include roads, railways, airways, waterways, canals and terminals such as airports, railway stations, bus stations, parking, refueling depots, and seaports.
Funding Agency or Organization
NBRC - Northern Border Regional Commission
Local Match Requirement
20-50% depending on economic distress criteria: https://www.nbrc.gov/content/project-match
Award Amount
Feasibility Award: up to $1 million; Implementation Award: up to $5 million
Deadline
February or April
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, School, State
Project Categories
Agriculture, Economic Development, Infrastructure, Transportation
Town Highway Bridges Program
State assistance for major rehabilitation or reconstruction of bridges with a span of six feet or more on Class 1, 2, or 3 town highways.
Funding Agency or Organization
VTrans - Vermont Agency of Transportation
Local Match Requirement
5% to 10%
Award Amount
No maximum
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Infrastructure, Transportation
Town Highway Class 2 Roadway Program Grant
State grants for the preservation of any Class 2 highways for resurfacing or reconstruction.
Funding Agency or Organization
VTrans - Vermont Agency of Transportation
Local Match Requirement
20% to 30%
Award Amount
Max - $200,000
Deadline
April 15
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Infrastructure, Transportation
Town Highway Structures Program Grant
State grants for bridges, culverts (36 inch diameter or larger), and retaining walls that are part of the municipalities' highway (Class 1, 2, or 3) infrastructure.
Funding Agency or Organization
VTrans - Vermont Agency of Transportation
Local Match Requirement
10% to 20%
Award Amount
Max - $200,000
Deadline
April 15
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Infrastructure, Transportation, Water Quality
Transportation Alternatives Program
State matching grants for the planning, design, and construction of bicycle and pedestrian facilities (on or off road), sidewalks, bicycle infrastructure, lighting, stormwater management, and others.
Funding Agency or Organization
VTrans - Vermont Agency of Transportation
Local Match Requirement
20%
Award Amount
Max - $600,000
Deadline
December
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC
Project Categories
Accessibility, Historic Preservation, Infrastructure, Recreation, Transportation, Water Quality
Tree Maintenance & Removal Grants
Funded through an unprecedented
one-time allocation
from the USDA Forest Service and the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022,
Tree Maintenance & Removal
grants will support local efforts to maintain a healthy urban tree canopy and address dead and high-risk trees in disadvantaged communities.  This work aligns with and supports the Biden-Harris Administration’s
Justice40 Initiative
by strategically identifying, reaching, and assisting disadvantaged communities in our state.
Funding Agency or Organization
VT UCF - Vermont Urban and Community Forestry
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
$5,000 - $20,000
Deadline
January 10, 2025
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, School
Project Categories
Conservation, Infrastructure, Placemaking, Public Safety
Unsafe Dam State Revolving Fund
The VT Department of Environmental Conservation provides funding for the reconstruction, repair, removal, breaching, draining, or other action necessary to reduce the threat of a dam or portion of a dam determined to be unsafe pursuant to
section 1095 of 10 VSA Chapter 43
. The dam must first be found to be unsafe via the process laid out in statute in order for an owner to qualify for funding. Financing from the Fund is in the form of a 100% loan, or a 25% grant together with a 75% loan based on the type of actions that will be taken by the owner.
Funding Agency or Organization
ANR - Vermont Agency of Natural Resources
Local Match Requirement
Varies
Award Amount
Up to $50,000
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, RPC
Project Categories
Conservation, Infrastructure, Public Safety, Water Quality
UVM Medical Center Community Health Investment Fund
The University of Vermont Medical Center invests in community initiatives that improve the overall health of our community. Programs must address either Mental Health or Childhood/Family Health, which were needs identified in the UVM Medical Center’s 2019 Community Health Needs Assessment.
Strategies should focus on one or more of the following:
Social & Community Connection
Addressing the Social Determinants of Health for Families
Access to Services (Mental Health and Childhood/Family)
Social & Emotional Well-Being Support
Substance Misuse Prevention
Cradle to Career Success
Funding Agency or Organization
UVMMC - University of Vermont Medical Center
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Single project - up to $50,000
Collective impact - up to $100,000
Deadline
October
Competitive?
Yes
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Equity and Social Justice, Planning, Public Health
VCRD Community Visit
The Community Visit program is a way for towns to engage and bring together their residents, set common goals, and directions in a neutral and facilitated structure, and access resources that will help them take action on those goals. The Community Visit program, provided at no cost to communities by VCRD, gets citizens engaged in working for their communities and connects them to the resources they need to be successful.
Funding Agency or Organization
VCRD - Vermont Council on Rural Development
Local Match Requirement
In-kind only
Award Amount
Four months of assistance
Deadline
None
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Economic Development, Engagement, Planning
VEDA Disaster Recovery Loan Fund
The VEDA Disaster Recovery Loan Fund provides financial assistance to Vermont businesses, farms, foresters, and not-for-profit organizations to help them recover from damage caused by disasters by repairing or replacing damaged property, inventory, or  working capital.
A disaster must be declared for the Disaster Recovery Loan Fund to be activated. That happens one of two ways. A disaster must be:
declared by the Governor of Vermont or President of the United States, or
declared by VEDA in consultation with the Vermont Secretary of Commerce and Community Development; Vermont Secretary of Agriculture, Farms, and Markets; and the Vermont Commissioner of Forests, Parks, and Recreation.
Funding Agency or Organization
VEDA - Vermont Economic Development Authority
Local Match Requirement
Interest rates vary; 20% guarantee required of for-profit entities
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Non-profit
Project Categories
Agriculture, Climate & Environmental Justice, Conservation, Economic Development, Emergency Management
Vermont Biodiversity Protection Fund
The Nature Conservancy (TNC) Vermont is awarding up to a total of $1,000,000 in grant funding in 2025 to organizations seeking to complete land protection projects in
TNC’s Resilient and Connected Network
in Vermont, with a preference given to projects in the five Focal Areas.
Grants will be awarded for projects that:
Are forested parcels (majority of parcel in forest cover or returning to forest)
Are in TNC Vermont’s Resilient and Connected Network, with preference given to the five Focal Areas and further prioritization of projects in the Vermont portions of the Southern Greens to Whites and Greens to Adirondacks
Are scheduled to close within 12-18 months of grant approval
Include a robust long-term stewardship plan and capacity
Preference will be given for projects that:
Include freshwater and equity benefits
Provide matching funds from many sources, including the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board’s Working Forest Fund and Natural Areas Fund, private gifts, bargain sales and land donations.
Are from LTA accredited (or member) organizations or those with demonstrated capabilities and track record of success
Up to 10% of the funds can be used for staff time and overhead.
Funding Agency or Organization
TNC - The Nature Conservancy
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Up to $100,000 per project
Deadline
November 2025
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, State
Project Categories
Climate & Environmental Justice, Conservation
Vermont Community Development Program – Accessibility Modification
Provides funding, on a first-come, first-serve basis for projects that bring existing municipally-owned buildings that serve a municipal function and non-school-community libraries (do not have to be municipally owned) into full compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the rules of the Vermont Access Board. Projects must be bid ready. All applications must be submitted by the municipality. This includes all applications potentially involving another benefitting entity (business or non-profit).
Funding Agency or Organization
ACCD - Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development
Local Match Requirement
25% minimum - cash or in-kind
Award Amount
Min - $5,000
Max - $100,000
Deadline
Rolling with 3 deadlines per year
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC
Project Categories
Accessibility, Buildings, Historic Preservation, Infrastructure
Vermont Community Development Program – Implementation Grant
This program funds projects that will result in direct benefit to persons of low- and moderate income, will eliminate slums or blight, or will address a community's urgent need. Projects accomplish this through economic development, housing, public facilities, and public services. All applications must be submitted by the municipality, including all applications potentially involving another benefitting entity (business or non-profit).
Funding Agency or Organization
ACCD - Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development
Local Match Requirement
10% minimum - cash or in-kind
Award Amount
Min - $50,000
Max -$500,000 or $1 million (public facilities or public services)
Deadline
Rolling with 3 deadlines per year
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC
Project Categories
Buildings, Economic Development, Historic Preservation, Housing, Infrastructure, Planning, Water and Wastewater
Vermont Community Development Program – Planning Grant
Provides funding for community development planning activities and/or pre-development activities in preparation for implementing a project in one or more of the program areas (housing, economic development, public facilities or public services). All applications must be submitted by the municipality. This includes all applications potentially involving another benefitting entity (business or non-profit).
Funding Agency or Organization
ACCD - Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development
Local Match Requirement
10% minimum - cash or in-kind
Award Amount
Min - $3,000
Max - $60,000
Deadline
Rolling with 3 deadlines per year
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC
Project Categories
Buildings, Economic Development, Housing, Infrastructure, Planning, Water and Wastewater
Vermont Community Development Program – Scattered Sites Grant
Provides funds to the regional scattered site housing rehabilitation revolving loan fund programs. All applications must be submitted by the municipality. This includes all applications potentially involving another benefitting entity (business or non-profit).
Funding Agency or Organization
ACCD - Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development
Local Match Requirement
10% minimum
Award Amount
Min - $50,000
Max - $1 million
Deadline
Rolling with 3 deadlines per year
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC
Project Categories
Buildings, Economic Development, Housing
Vermont Community Foundation – Various Grants
A variety of grants are available to support projects to improve environmental sustainability, cultural heritage, social justice, historic preservation, and vitality of Vermont communities.
Funding Agency or Organization
VCF - Vermont Community Foundation
Local Match Requirement
Varies
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
Varies
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Other, Planning
Vermont Economic Growth Incentive (VEGI)
The State of Vermont offers incentives to encourage business recruitment, growth, and expansion through the Vermont Employment Growth Incentive program (VEGI). The VEGI program can provide a performance-based cash incentive for prospective job and payroll creation and capital investment that is beyond organic growth and which occurs because of the incentive.
Funding Agency or Organization
ACCD - Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business
Project Categories
Economic Development
Vermont Federal Foundation Charitable Contributions
Vermont Federal Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable foundation established to support focus areas of sustainability, food security, building strong communities, and affordable & stable housing. Preference is given to 501(c)(3) or certified not-for-profit organizations that reflect the Foundation's values such as responsible fiscal management and productive community involvement.
Funding Agency or Organization
Vermont Federal Foundation
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, School
Project Categories
Climate & Environmental Justice, Conservation, Engagement, Equity and Social Justice, Housing, Public Health
Vermont Old Cemeteries Association Grants
The Vermont Old Cemetery Association offers grants for restoring abandoned or neglected cemeteries. Also, VOCA members conduct work days and training sessions throughout the state, in cemeteries large and small, righting and cleaning grave markers, clearing brush, fixing fences, repairing damaged markers, and recording inscriptions.
Funding Agency or Organization
VOCA - Vermont Old Cemeteries Association
Local Match Requirement
2:1 (33% local match)
Award Amount
Up to $750
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Historic Preservation
Vermont Pollution Control Grants
These grants fund improvements for municipal water pollution abatement and control facilities. Types of projects include combined sewer overflow elimination/separation, removal of direct sewer connections to waters of the state, sludge handling and septage receiving facilities, or projects to reduce phosphorous discharges.
Funding Agency or Organization
ANR - Vermont Agency of Natural Resources
Local Match Requirement
65% to 90%
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
February
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Infrastructure, Water and Wastewater, Water Quality
Vermont Pollution Control State Revolving Fund Clean Water Loan
Planning or construction for wastewater treatment or stormwater treatment facilities and collection systems. Designated for projects not eligible under the CWSRF Program.
Funding Agency or Organization
ANR - Vermont Agency of Natural Resources
Local Match Requirement
N/A
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
February
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Infrastructure, Planning, Water and Wastewater, Water Quality
Vermont State Infrastructure Bank
State low interest loan program for the construction or reconstruction of highways, roads and bridges, and pedestrian facilities, as well as certain capital facilities related to rail transit, public transit or electric vehicle charging stations.
Funding Agency or Organization
VEDA - Vermont Economic Development Authority
Local Match Requirement
Loan rates and fees apply
Award Amount
No maximum
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, RPC
Project Categories
Energy, Infrastructure, Transportation, Water Quality
VHCB Agricultural Conservation Grant
The Vermont Housing and Conservation Board preserves state-significant farmland by:
Awarding grants to eligible applicants (nonprofit conservation organizations, municipalities, and qualified state agencies) for the purchase of development rights;
Building the capacity of eligible applicants to undertake farmland conservation projects through capacity grants, and payment of costs associated with projects;
Providing loans to eligible applicants for farmland acquisition or protection.
The Board will fund a variety of preservation methods including, but not limited to, conservation easements, purchases, direct nonprofit ownership with a lease, or resale, to farmers, and land swaps, as long as the result is the perpetual conservation and protection of agricultural land.
Funding Agency or Organization
VHCB - Vermont Housing and Conservation Board
Local Match Requirement
Not required but considered
Award Amount
Up to $4,200 per acre
Up to $550,000 per project
With some exceptions
Deadline
Multiple
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, State
Project Categories
Agriculture, Conservation, Economic Development
VHCB Business Plan Implementation Grant
When funding is available, Farm & Forest Viability Implementation Grants are available on a competitive basis to farm 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.
Eligible projects include, but are not limited to, farm infrastructure construction, equipment, machinery upgrades, and energy efficiency projects that help a business meet business goals determined through their planning work. Focus areas for this grant are investments that:
Address climate change and climate adaptation
Improve and/or increase production or processing of local food or forest products
Funding Agency or Organization
VHCB - Vermont Housing and Conservation Board
Local Match Requirement
None required but considered
Award Amount
$1,000 - $10,000
Deadline
April
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Non-profit
Project Categories
Agriculture, Conservation, Economic Development, Energy, Infrastructure
VHCB Feasibility Funds
The Vermont Housing and Conservation Board provides feasibility awards to assist with pre-development costs and feasibility analysis for individual projects. This program pays for appraisals, engineering and environmental studies and options, for instance. Funds can only be used to compensate contracted services and may not be used to compensate applicants for staff time. These awards are instrumental in helping grantees bring projects to the development stage.
Funding Agency or Organization
VHCB - Vermont Housing and Conservation Board
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
$8,000 max for conservation
$10,000 max for single site housing
$15,000 max for scattered site housing
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, State
Project Categories
Agriculture, Conservation, Housing, Planning, Water Quality
VHCB Local Conservation Projects
Local conservation projects for agricultural and recreational land, town parks and forests, swimming holes, greenways, and historic buildings for public use.
Funding Agency or Organization
VHCB - Vermont Housing and Conservation Board
Local Match Requirement
33% - Min
Award Amount
Max - $150,000 ($215,000 for associated farmland)
Deadline
Multiple
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, State
Project Categories
Agriculture, Conservation, Economic Development, Historic Preservation, Recreation
VHCB Natural Areas & Recreational Lands Projects
Conservation projects of statewide significance are eligible for VHCB Conservation Project funding. These include natural areas that provide habitat for rare or endangered species, acquisition of lands to provide public access to trails or water, greenways, or acquisition of important historic properties for public use.
Funding Agency or Organization
VHCB - Vermont Housing and Conservation Board
Local Match Requirement
None required but considered
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
Multiple
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, State
Project Categories
Conservation, Historic Preservation, Recreation
VHCB Outstanding Building Grants
Funding for acquisition or rehabilitation of "outstanding" historic buildings located in downtowns and village centers as determined by VHCB. Projects are protected by a historic preservation easement.
Funding Agency or Organization
VHCB - Vermont Housing and Conservation Board
Local Match Requirement
Varies
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
Multiple
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit, State
Project Categories
Economic Development, Historic Preservation, Housing
VHCB Project-Specific Capacity Funding
Project capacity funds are available for pre-development expenses in excess of the amount available from VHCB's Project Feasibility Fund. They are limited to projects that, in the estimation of VHCB, have an especially high degree of complexity, difficulty or uncertainty. Examples of factors that may contribute to a high degree of complexity, difficulty or uncertainty include but are not limited to: an unusually large number of housing units, a difficult to develop building site, the presence of multiple sites or multiple goals, unusual ownership structure or special population to be served, community economics or demographics that make development of a project especially challenging
Funding Agency or Organization
VHCB - Vermont Housing and Conservation Board
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Max - $50,000
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Conservation, Housing, Infrastructure, Planning
Village Trust Initiative
The Village Trust Initiative launched in 2024 offering expertise and funding to help 20 small towns create or bolster a local community trust organization and take on a transformational revitalization project in their village. These projects could be the revitalization of a general store, the creation of a community center, the renovation of a large historic home into village-scale housing and more. All community-minded ideas that meet a critical community need are welcome.
To participate in this program a community must:
Be a town of fewer than 2,500 residents based on the 2020 Decennial Census.
Have an existing community trust organization or the desire to build one.
Be interested in a revitalization project utilizing a historic resource or site in an established village environment (greenspace and trails are not eligible).
Have or expect to have site control.
Have or expect to have endorsement by the Selectboard to participate in the program (a motion in Selectboard meeting minutes or a letter indicating support).
Funding Agency or Organization
PTV - Preservation Trust of Vermont
Local Match Requirement
Varies; VTI funding capped at 25% of project budget
Award Amount
Up to $500,000 for implementation funds plus technical assistance
Deadline
Fall
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Buildings, Historic Preservation, Placemaking, Planning
Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Trust Eligible Mitigation Actions
DEC is seeking applications for electric vehicle replacement or repower projects as part of Vermont’s allocation of the Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Trust (EMT) to offset emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) in the state. Funding is available for the following:
All-Electric Replacement or Repower of 1992-2009 Class 4-8 Local Freight Trucks (e.g., courier services, delivery trucks, waste haulers, yard trucks, street sweepers, box trucks, dump trucks, concrete mixers, and more); and
All-Electric Replacement or Repower of 1992-2009 Class 4-8 School, Shuttle, or Transit Buses.
All applications are required to utilize all-electric technology for replacements or repowers and the vehicles and engines to be replaced must be scrapped (permanently disabled). Repower in this context means to replace an existing engine with a newer, cleaner engine or power source and may include, but is not limited to, diesel engine replacement with an electric power source (e.g., grid, battery), diesel engine replacement with a fuel cell, and diesel engine replacement with an electric generator(s) (genset). Charging infrastructure can be included with electric replacement or repower projects; however, additional justification for applications seeking inclusion of DC Fast Charging must be provided.
Funding Agency or Organization
ANR - Vermont Agency of Natural Resources
Local Match Requirement
Government-owned (including buses under contract with a public school district): 15%; Privately-owned: 25%
Award Amount
Up to $5,844,941
Deadline
December 17, 2025
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, RPC, School, State, Transit Agency
Project Categories
Climate & Environmental Justice, Energy, Transportation
VOREC Community Grant Program
Grant funding can be used for a variety of purposes with the result being a community(ies) that can show measurable success supporting and growing their local economies through leveraging outdoor recreation.
Funding Agency or Organization
ANR - Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, FPR - Vermont Forests Parks & Recreation
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Varies by track
Deadline
December
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Conservation, Engagement, Infrastructure, Placemaking, Recreation
Water Quality Grants
Projects to make on-farm capital improvements that also have direct, positive impacts on water quality are eligible for funding. The following types of projects have been funded in the past:
Construction, renovation, or upgrades to farm infrastructure
Purchase of equipment that will be used frequently; is essential to the business; cannot be rented; and leads to innovative farm practices
Funding Agency or Organization
VHCB - Vermont Housing and Conservation Board
Local Match Requirement
50%
Award Amount
Max - $40,000
Deadline
January
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Non-profit
Project Categories
Agriculture, Buildings, Conservation, Infrastructure, Water Quality
Water Quality Nonprofit Organizational Support Projects
LCBP seeks proposals for projects that will support increased organizational capacity and long-term effectiveness of watershed organizations working to implement elements of
Opportunities for Action: An Evolving Plan for the Future of the Lake Champlain Basin
Funding Agency or Organization
LCBP - Lake Champlain Basin Program
Local Match Requirement
Not required but beneficial
Award Amount
Up to $20,000
Deadline
January
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Non-profit
Project Categories
Conservation, Water Quality
Water Source Protection Loan Program
Supports municipal water systems' purchase of land or conservation easements to protect public water sources. Proposals must include a hydrogeologically-delineated source protection area, an approved Source Protection Plan, and must demonstrate how the project will directly promote public health protection or compliance with national drinking water regulations.
Funding Agency or Organization
ANR - Vermont Agency of Natural Resources
Local Match Requirement
3% interest, 20-year term
Award Amount
Max - $200,000
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Conservation, Infrastructure, Water and Wastewater
Water & Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program
This program provides funding for clean and reliable drinking water systems, sanitary sewage disposal, sanitary solid waste disposal, and storm water drainage to households and businesses in eligible rural areas. Eligible areas must have 10,000 or fewer inhabitants, and the median household income must be below the poverty line or less than 80% of the statewide non-MSA median household income.
Also see the related
Water & Waste Disposal Loan Guarantee program
Funding Agency or Organization
USDA-RD - US Department of Agriculture Rural Development
Local Match Requirement
Varies - see loan terms
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
National Pool - April
State Pool - December
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Infrastructure, Water and Wastewater
Water & Waste Disposal Predevelopment Grant
This program helps low-income rural communities plan and develop applications for USDA Rural Development Water and Waste Disposal
direct loan/grant
and
loan guarantee
programs. Eligible areas must have 10,000 or fewer inhabitants, and the median household income must be below the poverty line or less than 80% of the statewide non-MSA median household income.
Funding Agency or Organization
USDA-RD - US Department of Agriculture Rural Development
Local Match Requirement
25%
Award Amount
Max - $30,000
Deadline
National Pool - April
State Pool - December
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Infrastructure, Planning, Water and Wastewater
Watershed Grant Program
Since its creation in 1998, the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department's Watershed Grant Program has supported the protection, restoration, enhancement, and public appreciation of Vermont’s lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams. The grant program also supports efforts to improve surface water quality in keeping with stated habitat improvement objectives. The program provides grants to towns, nonprofit organizations and community groups with specific watershed projects.
Funding Agency or Organization
ANR - Vermont Agency of Natural Resources
Local Match Requirement
None
Award Amount
Varies up to $10,000
Deadline
February
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Conservation District, Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Conservation, Engagement, Recreation, Transportation, Water Quality
Wildland Fire Equipment Purchasing Program
Rural fire departments in Vermont can purchase wildland firefighting equipment and PPE from the federal government supply through the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation, Forestry Division. This program is offered to Vermont volunteer fire departments (VFDs) serving towns with population under 10,000 and is funded by federal Volunteer Fire Assistance (VFA) funds from the US Forest Service. The 50/50 Purchasing Program will be available in Fall of 2025
Funding Agency or Organization
FPR - Vermont Forests Parks & Recreation
Local Match Requirement
50%
Award Amount
Up to $5,000
Deadline
November
Competitive?
Non-competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal
Project Categories
Emergency Management, Public Safety
Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program
The Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program (WCPP) is a competitive grant program with the goal of reducing Wildlife Vehicle Collisions (WVCs) while improving habitat connectivity for terrestrial and aquatic species. The WCPP provides funding for construction and non-construction projects.
Construction Projects
include engineering, design, permitting, right-of-way acquisition, and other activities related to the construction of infrastructure improvements, such as the building of a wildlife crossing overpass or underpass.
Non-Construction Projects
include planning, research, and educational activities that are not directly related to construction of infrastructure improvements, such as a hot spot analysis of WVCs.
Funding Agency or Organization
USDOT - US Department of Transportation
Local Match Requirement
20%
Award Amount
Varies
Deadline
September and May
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, RPC, State, Transit Agency
Project Categories
Conservation, Infrastructure, Public Safety, Transportation
Windham Foundation Grants
The Windham Foundation offers a grants program with a mission of supporting the vitality of small-town life. Grants are awarded four times a year to support educational programs, local food initiatives, land conservation for public use, environmental protection, social services, cultural resources, and historic preservation.
Funding Agency or Organization
Windham Foundation
Local Match Requirement
50%
Award Amount
Generally up to $10,000
Deadline
Multiple
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Agriculture, Art, Conservation, Engagement, Equity and Social Justice, Historic Preservation, Placemaking
CWIP Woody Riparian Buffer Planting Block Grant
A part of the Vermont Clean Water Initiative Program (CWIP), this grant supports the implementation of high-priority, cost-effective, native riparian woody buffer plantings and associated non-chemical site preparation activities.
Funding Agency or Organization
ANR - Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, VACD - Vermont Association of Conservation Districts, WUV - Watersheds United Vermont
Local Match Requirement
None required
Award Amount
Min - $50,000
Deadline
Rolling
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Municipal, Non-profit
Project Categories
Conservation, Water Quality
Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities (WORC) Initiative
The WORC Initiative addresses persistent economic distress by aligning community-led economic and workforce development strategies and activities. This ensures long-term economic resilience and enables workers in the regions to succeed in current and future job opportunities and to remain and thrive in these communities. The WORC Initiative also:
Creates economic mobility;
Addresses historic inequities for marginalized communities of color and other underserved or underrepresented communities; and
Produces high-quality employment outcomes for workers who live or work in the Appalachian, Delta, and Northern Border regions.
Funding Agency or Organization
NBRC - Northern Border Regional Commission
Local Match Requirement
No match required; leveraging considered in screening
Award Amount
$150,000 - $1.5 million
Deadline
June
Competitive?
Competitive
Eligible Organizations
Business, Municipal, Non-profit, RPC, State
Project Categories
Economic Development, Equity and Social Justice, Planning