The grants below are accepting applications. If a grant you saw previously isn't here, the grant has closed.
To use this resource:
- click on the topic area you need: Broadband | Brownfields | Climate and Environment | Culture and the Arts | Cybersecurity | Disaster Recovery | Economic | Emergency Services and Public Safety | Energy | Housing | Infrastructure | Multiple | Other | Recreation | Transportation | Water/Wastewater/Stormwater
- find a grant whose title suggests it may match your project; and
- click on the grant title to learn more and for a link to program information and the funding announcement.
Feeling overwhelmed by all the grant opportunities? Consider booking a Consult on Call appointment with us to talk about your ideas and projects! We'll help sort through the chaff and provide you with a funding sources list customized for your project.
Funding Entity: Vermont Economic Development Authority
Eligible Activities: Provide loans for startup broadband projects and expansion of existing broadband networks. Eligible project costs include working capital, construction, and infrastructure/installation.
Funding Tool: Loan
Application Closing Date: Rolling
Apply Via: Email
Link: https://www.veda.org/broadband-loan-program
Note: Feasibility study and/or a detailed business plan is required.
Funding Entity: USDA Rural Development
Eligible Activities: Supports community economic development, technology-based economic development, feasibility studies, and business plans.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: No maximum. Recommends up to $200,000 for applications within the Northeast Kingdom and no more than $50,000 for other parts of Vermont. Smaller requests are given higher priority.
Match: Non required
Application Closing Date: 02/28/25
Apply Via: Email or hard copy
Note: There are two types of RBDG projects, Opportunity grants and Enterprise grants. Enterprise grants are for “doing”. Opportunity grants are for planning, analysis, and training. Job creation is a critical component of application evaluation.
Funding Entity: Vermont Department of Economic Development
Eligible Activities: Remediation of brownfield sites for eligible sites
Funding Tool: Grant to non-profits and municipalities; loans to private developers, nonprofits, and municipalities
Min/Max Funding: Maximum $200,000 per parcel for DED’s federally funded program. No maximum limit for State funded program.
Match: Required, but amount not specified for DED’s federally funded program. Match is 10% for State funded program.
Application Closing Date: Rolling
Apply Via: Online form submitted via email
Note: Applicants must have completed a Phase 1 environmental site assessment prior to site acquisition and be enrolled in the Brownfields Reuse and Environmental Liability Limitation Program (BRELLA)
Funding Entity: Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation
Eligible Activities: Assessment and remediation of brownfield sites for eligible sites
Funding Tool: Grant and/or loan
Min/Max Funding: Not specified on program website. Funding is gap funding.
Match: Unknown. Application requests information about other funding sources.
Application Closing Date: Rolling
Apply Via: Online form submitted via email
Note: Applicants can have neither caused nor contributed to the contamination nor be connected to any person or organization that has caused or contributed to the contamination
Funding Entity: Regional Planning Commissions
Eligible Activities: Assessment and/or remediation of brownfield properties
Funding Tool: Grant for assessment; grant and/or loan for remediation
Min/Max Funding: Maximum $200,000 per parcel for federally funded program. No maximum limit for State funded program.
Match: Varies by regional planning commission
Application Closing Date: Rolling
Apply Via: Online form submitted via email
Link: Find the Regional Planning Commission (RPC) serving your municipality at https://www.vapda.org/regions.html. Several RPCs have revolving loan funds for remediation. These programs can assist sites throughout the state.
Funding Entity: Vermont Emergency Management (State ARPA)
Eligible Activities: Buyout of developed properties (conditions apply), purchase of vacant at-risk parcels or vacant (conditions apply), developable parcels, structural elevation or relocation projects, restoring natural floodplain access, dam removal projects, natural infrastructure and nature-based solutions for flood storage or improved floodplain and river function, green infrastructure and low-impact development to manage stormwater and reduce future flooding (must be ineligible for other funding sources), community flood risk reduction assessments for communities within the Lake Champlain Basin, project scope for Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) or other flood risk reduction grant programs, planning or education and outreach initiatives that improve understanding of flood risk, other innovative applications that reduce future flood risk, non-federal match for FEMA project applications under the Hazard Mitigation Assistance program (based on need), and management of awarded projects.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: No maximum award listed
Match: None required
Application Closing Date: Rolling, until funds are allocated; next - and potentially final - application review is July 31, 2023
Apply Via: Online form
Link: https://vem.vermont.gov/flood-resilient-communities-fund
Note: Projects for municipal and/or public infrastructure require the municipality to have a currently approved Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP)
Funding Entity: Vermont Emergency Management
Eligible Activities: Typical hazard mitigation projects include: mitigation of local roads and bridges, home acquisition (buyout), structural elevations or relocations, replacement of undersized culverts, mitigation outreach and education, planning, development of a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, etc. Project proposals do not need to be directly connected to damages incurred from the most recent declared disaster.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: No maximum award listed
Match: Management costs are 100% federally funded. Due to the recently passed state budget for FY2025, there will be no local match requirement. The program typically requires a 25% local match.
Application Closing Date: Rolling, until funds are allocated. Pre-Application Forms submitted by 04/30/25 receive priority for funding. Pre-Applications will be evaluated for eligibility, feasibility, and cost-effectiveness. Projects found to meet these requirements will then be invited to apply, provided technical assistance (if requested), and submitted to FEMA once completed.
Apply Via: Via email. Contact dps.hazardmitigation@vermont.gov to discuss your project prior to applying.
Link: https://vem.vermont.gov/disaster-based-funding
Notes:
- Communities must have a FEMA approved and adopted Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) and Local Emergency Management Plan (LEMP) to receiving a project award. Applications can be submitted without these plans, but awarded funds will not be released until the plans are in place.
- Communities must be in good standing with the National Flood Insurance Program if a special flood hazard area (SFHA) has been identified in the community and if the proposed project is located within the SFHA.
- Landslide buyouts must have a letter from the State Geologist (imminent risk).
- A FEMA Benefit-Cost Analysis (BCA) is required, except for most property buyouts and elevations. Some assistance is available for completing a BCA. Submit the Pre-Application Form to access assistance.
- VEM staff are available, upon request, to provide technical assistance at any point in the process. Contact dps.hazardmitigation@vermont.gov.
Funding Entity: Federal Emergency Management Agency via Vermont Emergency Management
Eligible Activities: Supports project scoping for a specific structure or a larger area; Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) development or update; project construction, such as a home buyout, floodplain restoration or culvert upsizing; and management costs.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: No maximum award listed
Match: 25% of approved project costs or 10% of approved project costs for Community Disaster Resilience Zones (City of Barre only) and Economically Disadvantaged Rural Communities (EDRC). Management costs are 100% federally funded up to 5% of total project costs.
Application Closing Date: Applications must be submitted to Vermont Emergency Management by 01/12/24
Apply Via: FEMA GO; if your community is interested in applying, VEM requests you email your Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number and municipality name to dps.hazardmitigation@vermont.gov. VEM must set up your municipality in the FEMA GO system as part of the State of Vermont application.
Link:
- Program: https://vem.vermont.gov/non-disaster-based-funding
- Notice of Funding Opportunity: https://vem.vermont.gov/sites/demhs/files/documents/FY_2023_BRIC_NOFO_%20Final.pdf
Note:
- Municipalities must apply for this grant through Vermont Emergency Management. The State submits one application containing all Vermont projects.
- Communities must have a FEMA approved Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) at the time of application submission and application award. If your community wants to create or update its LHMP or wants to inquire about the status of last year’s BRIC application for LHMP updates, email dps.hazardmitigation@vermont.gov.
- Vermont has a $2 million federal share set-aside for this program. Projects over $2 million also can apply and will be submitted for consideration in a national competition.
- An Economically Disadvantaged Rural Community (EDRC) is a community of 3,000 or fewer individuals identified by the applicant that is economically disadvantaged, with residents having an average per capita annual income not exceeding 80% of the national per capita income, based on best available data. Contact VEM at dps.hazardmitigation@vermont.gov to learn if your municipality qualifies.
Funding Entity: Vermont Council on Rural Development
Eligible Activities: Supports to three to five communities annually, focusing on local climate action solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance energy efficiency, build climate resilience, and fortify the local climate economy. Services provided, such as community engagement, strategic planning, technical assistance, and project implementation, are adaptable to each community's unique needs.
Funding Tool: Technical Assistance
Min/Max Funding: Not applicable. This is a grant of services.
Match: None required
Application Closing Date: 01/16/24
Apply Via: Online application
Note: Priority will be given to projects showcasing collaboration, equitable engagement, increased resilience, emissions reduction, and economic strengthening, with the potential to serve as models for other Vermont communities. Eligible entities include Town Energy Committees, Energy Coordinators, municipal leadership, or Climate Catalysts.
Funding Entity: Vermont Housing and Conservation Board
Eligible Activities:
- Supports conservation projects of statewide significance, including natural areas that support vital ecological or conservation functions and values; provide habitat for rare or endangered species; or have physiographic or geological features of statewide significance (waterfalls, caves, gorges, river deltas, etc.).
- Supports conservation of locally significant projects for outdoor public recreation, natural area protection, historic preservation, agricultural land preservation, and the maintenance of a community’s scenic integrity or definition of its identity. Multi-purpose projects are most competitive.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Up to $150,000 plus associated costs (ex. appraisals, options, closing costs)
Match: ⅓ of total project costs
Application Closing Date: Reviewed as received
Apply Via: Online application portal
Link: https://vhcb.org/our-programs/conservation/apply-for-funding
Note:
- Applicants are requested to call VHCB staff to discuss their project prior to completing an application.
- Program does not fund construction of buildings or recreational facilities.
- Conservation easement or other VHCB Board-approved legal mechanism to protect a property in perpetuity required.
Funding Entity: State Natural Resources Conservation Council
Eligible Activities: Supports general project scoping and specific project development.
- General project scoping identifies projects for development and includes activities such as reviewing the State’s database and existing plans and documents, discussing projects with the State, responding to landowner questions, conducting site visits to develop strategies, gauging landowner interest, and communication with municipal staff and committees about River Corridor or Stormwater Master Plans.
- Specific project development aims to gather information and commitments needed to bring a project into the initial design phase and between design and implementation phases. It includes activities such as refining a project’s scope, identifying and contacting landowners and securing landowner support, working with partners or online tools to estimate pollution benefits and project costs, reviewing natural resource concerns and permit needs, contacting relevant stakeholders, meeting with municipal staff and/or the legislative body to encourage project implementation, and developing concept drawings and memos for determining project feasibility.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Up to $10,000
Match: None required, but welcomed
Application Closing Date: Rolling; applications are reviewed monthly until available funds are exhausted
Apply via: Online application form submitted via email
Link: https://www.vacd.org/projectdevelopment/
Note: Prospective applicants are encouraged to review the Vermont Clean Water Initiative Program Funding Policy prior to developing an application.
Funding Entity: Addison County Regional Planning Commission
Eligible Activities: Supports getting landowners, municipalities, and other partners "on board" with projects to improve water quality and to move those projects towards design and implementation. Eligible activities include reviewing and prioritizing projects in existing plans, contacting landowners, reviewing permit needs, meeting with municipalities, estimating phosphorus reduction potential, and developing basic concept drawings.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Up to $34,000
Match: None specified
Application Closing Date: Rolling
Apply via: Email
Note: Funds cannot be used for any project requiring a 3-acre permit or any project obligated under the law.
Funding Entity: Mount Ascutney Regional Commission
Eligible Activities: Supports preliminary (30%) engineering design, final (100%) engineering design, and implementation of clean water projects with a primary purpose of mitigating sediment and nutrient pollution to surface waters.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: None noted
Match: Projects that contribute to a MS4 community achieving flow and/or phosphorus reduction targets as identified through a Flow Restoration Plan (FRP) or Phosphorus Control Plan (PCP) must provide a minimum of 50% match. Non-MS4 projects do not require match. However, contributed match funds are considered during the proposal scoring process.
Application Closing Date: Rolling
Apply via: Email
Link: https://www.marcvt.org/clean-water-design-and-implementation-block-grant.html
Note:
- Contact cwbg@marcvt.org to confirm project eligibility and availability of funds before applying.
- Funds cannot be used for any project requiring a 3-acre permit or any project obligated under the law.
Funding Entity: State Natural Resources Conservation Council
Eligible Activities: Supports preliminary (30%) engineering design, final (100%) engineering design, and implementation of clean water projects with a primary purpose of mitigating sediment and nutrient pollution to surface waters. Eligible project types include floodplain/stream restoration, lake shoreland, wetland, stormwater, agricultural pollution prevention, forestry, stormwater gully and some road projects.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Up to $15,000
Match: Non-regulatory projects: not required. Regulatory projects: none if public/private partnership or non-MS4 public entity or 50% of project cost if MS4 community or private entity.
Application Closing Date: Rolling; applications are reviewed monthly until available funds are exhausted
Apply via: Online application form submitted via email
Link: https://www.vacd.org/design-implementation-rfa/
Note: Prospective applicants are encouraged to review the Vermont Clean Water Initiative Program Funding Policy prior to developing an application.
Funding Entity: Northwest Regional Planning Commission
Eligible Activities: Supports project identification and assessment, project development, preliminary (30%) design, final (100%) design, and implementation/construction of best management practices or other programs designed to improve water quality. Eligible project types include stormwater projects on developed land that are not required by a permit; river corridor restoration and protection; floodplain restoration and protection; wetland restoration and protection; riparian and lakeshore corridor protection and restoration; natural woody buffers associated with riparian and lakeshore; projects on agricultural land if the farm in question does not meet the minimum eligibility criteria for the Required Agricultural Practices; natural resource restoration projects on a jurisdictional farm if confirmed by the VT Agency of Agriculture.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: None listed; Cost versus phosphorus reduction ratio is considered
Match: None required
Application Closing Date: Multiple opportunities to submit. Next application deadlines are 03/13/25 and 05/23/25.
Apply via: Email
Link: https://www.nrpcvt.com/about-nrpc/rfp-rfq-rfb/
Note: Projects must not be required by a permit (10 VSA, Chapter 47), or subject to the requirements of Vermont Agricultural Water Quality statutes (6 V.S.A, Chapter 215). Funding may be available for the portion of projects that exceed requirements set forth in the statutes above.
Funding Entity: Vermont Housing and Conservation Board
Eligible Activities: Supports project identification and assessment, project development, preliminary (30%) design, final (100%) design, and implementation/construction of best management practices or other programs designed to improve water quality. Eligible project types include sub-jurisdictional practices related to developed lands; river corridor restoration and protection; floodplain restoration and protection; wetland restoration and protection; riparian and lakeshore corridor protection and restoration; natural woody buffers associated with riparian, lakeshore, and wetland protection and restoration; forestry projects that provide water quality protection and restoration beyond the requirements of the Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation Acceptable Management Practices; projects on agricultural land if the farm in question does not meet the minimum eligibility criteria for the Required Agricultural Practices; natural resource restoration projects on a jurisdictional farm if confirmed by the VT Agency of Agriculture.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: None listed; Cost versus phosphorus reduction ratio is considered
Match: None required
Application Closing Date: Applications may be submitted at any time. Next review deadlines are 10/13/24 and 11/15/24.
Apply via: Email
Link: https://vhcb.org/our-programs/conservation/memphremagog-basin-clean-water-service-provider
Note: Projects must not be required by a permit (10 VSA, Chapter 47), or subject to the requirements of Vermont Agricultural Water Quality statutes (6 V.S.A, Chapter 215). Funding may be available for the portion of projects that exceed requirements set forth in the statutes above.
Funding Entity: Northwest Regional Planning Commission
Eligible Activities: Supports project identification and assessment, project development, preliminary (30%) design, final (100%) design, and implementation/construction of best management practices or other programs designed to improve water quality. Eligible project types include stormwater projects on developed land that are not required by a permit; river corridor restoration and protection; floodplain restoration and protection; wetland restoration and protection; riparian and lakeshore corridor protection and restoration; natural woody buffers associated with riparian and lakeshore; projects on agricultural land if the farm in question does not meet the minimum eligibility criteria for the Required Agricultural Practices; natural resource restoration projects on a jurisdictional farm if confirmed by the VT Agency of Agriculture.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: None listed; Cost versus phosphorus reduction ratio is considered
Match: None required
Application Closing Date: Multiple opportunities to submit. Next application deadlines are 01/22/25 and 05/21/25.
Apply via: Online application
Link: https://www.nrpcvt.com/about-nrpc/rfp-rfq-rfb/
Note: Projects must not be required by a permit (10 VSA, Chapter 47), or subject to the requirements of Vermont Agricultural Water Quality statutes (6 V.S.A, Chapter 215). Funding may be available for the portion of projects that exceed requirements set forth in the statutes above.
Funding Entity: Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission
Eligible Activities: Supports project identification and assessment, project development, preliminary (30%) design, final (100%) design, and implementation/construction of best management practices or other programs designed to improve water quality. Eligible project types include sub-jurisdictional practices related to developed lands; river corridor restoration and protection; floodplain restoration and protection; wetland restoration and protection; riparian and lakeshore corridor protection and restoration; natural woody buffers associated with riparian, lakeshore, and wetland protection and restoration; forestry projects that provide water quality protection and restoration beyond the requirements of the Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation Acceptable Management Practices; projects on agricultural land if the farm in question does not meet the minimum eligibility criteria for the Required Agricultural Practices; natural resource restoration projects on a jurisdictional farm if confirmed by the VT Agency of Agriculture.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: None listed; Cost versus phosphorus reduction ratio is considered. At this time, projects with a projected cost-efficiency of greater than $50,000 per kilogram-of-phosphorus (P) reduction over a 15-year lifespan (i.e. Engineering + Construction Costs / kilograms-P-reduced) will generally not be funded. Such projects will be addressed on a case-by-case basis using a pre-proposal.
Match: None required
Application Closing Date: Multiple opportunities. Upcoming deadlines are 08/05/24
Apply via: Online form submitted via email
Note: Projects must not be required by a permit (10 VSA, Chapter 47), or subject to the requirements of Vermont Agricultural Water Quality statutes (6 V.S.A, Chapter 215). Funding may be available for the portion of projects that exceed requirements set forth in the statutes above.
Funding Entity: Addison County Regional Planning Commission
Eligible Activities: Supports project identification and assessment, project development, preliminary (30%) design, final (100%) design, and implementation/construction of best management practices or other programs designed to improve water quality. Eligible project types include sub-jurisdictional practices related to developed lands; river corridor restoration and protection; floodplain restoration and protection; wetland restoration and protection; riparian and lakeshore corridor protection and restoration; natural woody buffers associated with riparian, lakeshore, and wetland protection and restoration; forestry projects that provide water quality protection and restoration beyond the requirements of the Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation Acceptable Management Practices; projects on agricultural land if the farm in question does not meet the minimum eligibility criteria for the Required Agricultural Practices; natural resource restoration projects on a jurisdictional farm if confirmed by the VT Agency of Agriculture.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Based on total phosphorus load reductions achieved versus project cost
Match: None
Application Closing Date: Multiple opportunities. Upcoming deadline is 12/17/24.
Apply via: Online form submitted via email
Note: Projects must not be required by a permit (10 VSA, Chapter 47), or subject to the requirements of Vermont Agricultural Water Quality statutes (6 V.S.A, Chapter 215). Funding may be available for the portion of projects that exceed requirements set forth in the statutes above.
Funding Entity: Rutland Regional Planning Commission and Poultney Mettowee Natural Resources Conservation District
Eligible Activities: Supports project identification and assessment, project development, preliminary (30%) design, final (100%) design, and implementation/construction of best management practices or other programs designed to improve water quality. Eligible project types include sub-jurisdictional practices related to developed lands; river corridor restoration and protection; floodplain restoration and protection; wetland restoration and protection; riparian and lakeshore corridor protection and restoration; natural woody buffers associated with riparian, lakeshore, and wetland protection and restoration; forestry projects that provide water quality protection and restoration beyond the requirements of the Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation Acceptable Management Practices; projects on agricultural land if the farm in question does not meet the minimum eligibility criteria for the Required Agricultural Practices; natural resource restoration projects on a jurisdictional farm if confirmed by the VT Agency of Agriculture.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: None listed; Cost versus phosphorus reduction ratio is considered
Match: None required
Application Closing Date: Applications may be submitted at any time. Next review deadline is 08/16/24.
Apply via: Online form submitted via email
Link: https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:US:8d80cdc5-4d36-4c9b-bcc2-f25d5173c477
Note: Projects must not be required by a permit (10 VSA, Chapter 47), or subject to the requirements of Vermont Agricultural Water Quality statutes (6 V.S.A, Chapter 215). Funding may be available for the portion of projects that exceed requirements set forth in the statutes above.
Funding Entity: Watersheds United Vermont
Eligible Activities: Supports implementation of high priority, cost-effective, native riparian woody buffer plantings. Riparian forest buffers must be of sufficient width, intercept sediment, nutrients, pesticides, and other materials in surface runoff and reduce nutrient and other pollutants in shallow subsurface water flow. Projects involving the installation of woody buffers along rivers and streams must have a minimum buffer width of 35 feet and a minimum planting density of at least 300 stems/acre.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Up to $300,000
Match: None required.
Application Closing Date: Rolling
Apply Via: Email
Funding Entity: US Environmental Protection Agency
Eligible Activities: This program will help eligible entities develop an application for EPA Community Change Grants by providing grant application support, project planning and development, outreach and engagement, and general capacity building.
Funding Tool: Grant of technical assistance
Min/Max Funding: None. This program provides technical assistance for the Community Change Grant application.
Match: None required
Application Closing Date: Rolling
Apply Via: Online form
Link: https://www.epa.gov/inflation-reduction-act/community-change-grants-technical-assistance
Note: If you are awarded a Community Change grant, the program also provides grants management and reporting support.
Funding Entity: US Environmental Protection Agency
Eligible Activities: This program will help eligible entities develop an application for EPA Community Change Grants by providing free design and project development assistance, community engagement, and partnership development workshops that support climate resilience and environmental justice activities in disaster-prone areas. Climate resilience projects must have a direct benefit to disadvantaged communities and could include retrofits to community-serving buildings; design or redesign of public parks, open space, and waterways; redesign of streets; or other projects that address climate resilience and environmental justice.
Funding Tool: Grant of technical assistance
Min/Max Funding: None. This program provides 4 to 5 months of technical assistance.
Match: None required
Application Closing Date: Rolling
Apply Via: Online form
Note: Eligible sites for this technical assistance must in a disaster-prone area and benefit a disadvantaged community.
Funding Entity: Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission (CCRPC)
Eligible Activities: Supports tree planting activities within municipal properties; within a town highway right-of-way; within State of Vermont highway rights-of-way; at public educational institutions; on properties owned by registered non-profit entities; and on private property provided an approved agreement is in place between an eligible subgrantee and the private property owner. Priority sites include:
- Urban areas with low (40% or less) canopy cover. American Forests’ Tree Equity Map includes estimates of canopy cover by census tract.
- Planting sites located within state-designated planning areas.
- Census tracts with 5 or more flags on the Vermont Department of Health Social Vulnerability Index (overview map).
- Municipalities ranking high on the Vermont Community Index.
Funding Tool: Grant
Application Closing Date: 01/17/25
Min/Max Funding: $5,000 to $75,000
Match: None required
Apply Via: Email
Notes:
- CCRPC is administering this grant on behalf of the Vermont Urban and Community Forestry Program.
- The Urban and Community Forestry Program will provide direct technical assistance to applicants and grant award winners. See program website for assistance provided.
Funding Entity: US Fish and Wildlife Service
Eligible Activities: Supports projects that restore and conserve fish and wildlife habitat
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: up to $750,000
Match: Not required, although USF&WS strives to achieve a minimum 1:1 cost share on selected projects
Application Closing Date: Rolling until 09/30/24; Applications received after 06/30/24 may not be awarded until the following fiscal year (after 10/01/24)
Apply Via: Grants.gov
Link:
- Program: https://www.fws.gov/program/partners-fish-and-wildlife
- Notice of Funding Opportunity: https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/search-grants.html and search Opportunity Number F24AS00021
Note: Applicants are requested to consult with a local Partners’ Program office before developing or submitting an application.
Funding Entity: Federal Emergency Management Agency
Eligible Activities: Provides supplemental Federal grant assistance for debris removal, emergency protective measures, and the restoration of disaster-damaged, publicly owned facilities and specific facilities of certain types of private nonprofit organizations. There are seven categories of assistance, one or all are federally authorized for any disaster event. Encourages protection of damaged facilities from future incidents by providing assistance for hazard mitigation measures.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Based on FEMA-established minimum and large project thresholds for a fiscal year. For CY 2023, small project min/max is $3,800 to $999,999, and large project is ≥$1 million.
Match: 25% of total project cost; a portion of this match will be paid by the State of Vermont based on a municipality’s Emergency Relief Assistance Fund rate. Find your municipality’s rate on Flood Ready Vermont.
Application Closing Date: 30 days from the date the area (county, municipality) was designated in the declaration (the July 2023 flood event date varies for different counties in Vermont)
Apply Via: FEMA Grants Portal
Link:
Program: https://www.fema.gov/assistance/public
VLCT-Compiled Resources: https://www.vlct.org/fema-public-assistance-program-pa
Note: Work funded through Public Assistance MUST include a contract provision encouraging (not requiring) the contractor to provide a preference for the purchase, acquisition, or use of goods, products or materials produced in the United States. This includes, but is not limited to, iron, aluminum, steel, cement, and other manufactured products. This requirement also must be included in all subawards.
Funding Entity: Vermont Emergency Management
Eligible Activities: Provides public assistance to municipalities to repair damaged infrastructure after a presidentially declared disaster.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: State share of FEMA Public Assistance 25% required local match: 7.5%, 12.5% or 17.5% based on municipal disaster preparedness actions
Match: Municipality provides the remaining share of FEMA Public Assistance required local match
Application Closing Date: None
Apply Via: No application required; the State of Vermont pays its FEMA match contribution to the municipality based on FEMA payment to municipality and municipality’s ERAF rate
Link:
Funding Entity: Vermont Agency of Transportation
Eligible Activities: Supports repair or reconstruction of Federal-aid highways and roads on Federal lands which have suffered serious damage because of natural disasters or catastrophic failures from an external cause.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Not specified
Match: 10% for interstate highways; 20% for all other Federal-aid highways and roads on Federal lands; 0% for Federal Lands Management Agencies
Application Closing Date: To be determined; VTrans must submit an application to the Federal Highways Administration within two calendar years of the date of the disaster
Apply Via: VTrans (process to be determined)
Funding Entity: USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
Eligible Activities: Offers technical and financial assistance to help local communities relieve imminent threats to life and property caused by natural disasters that impair a watershed. Planning, design, and construction oversight are part of this program. Eligible activities include:
- removing debris from stream channels, road culverts and bridges;
- reshaping and protecting eroded streambanks;
- correcting damaged or destroyed drainage facilities;
- establishing vegetative cover on critically eroding lands;
- repairing levees and structures;
- repairing certain conservation practices; and
- purchasing EWP Buyouts.
Commonly eligible projects include head-cutting gullies, severely eroded stream banks and drainage ditches, wildfire damage, debris in channels, sediment deposits in creeks and drainage ditches, channel stabilization at culverts and bridges, and landslides causing a watershed impairment.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: None specified
Match: 25% of construction costs; NRCS may provide up to 100% of costs for purchase of floodplain easement and restoration project.
Application Closing Date: Project sponsors must submit a formal Request for Assistance within 60 days of the disaster occurrence or 60 days from the date when access to the sites becomes available. For the July 9-11 and July 29-31, 2024, flood events (together, EWP Event 5042), the request deadline has been extended to September 30, 2024.
Apply Via: A Request for Assistance letter directed to VT’s NRCS office
Link: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/ewp-emergency-watershed-protection
Notes:
- NRCS staff conduct damage survey site visits after a Request for Assistance is submitted.
- Program assistance is only used to relieve a threat to infrastructure, not to repair the infrastructure.
- Project sponsors may require the property owner to provide the match.
Funding Entity: US Economic Development Administration
Eligible Activities: Supports disaster recovery activities including economic recovery strategic planning grants, public works construction projects including broadband and resiliency projects, workforce development, capitalization of revolving loan funds, and economic development projects that enhance density in the vicinity of other economic development
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: No minimums or maximums are listed
Match: 20% 0f eligible costs, but factors such as project scale, extent of disaster impact, total project cost, relative community distress, and geographic distribution of funds can lower the match rate
Application Closing Date: Rolling until funds have been expended
Apply Via: EDGE
Link:
- Notice of Funding Opportunity: https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/search-grants.html and search Funding Opportunity Number EDA-DISASTER-2023
- EDGE grants portal: https://sfgrants.eda.gov
Note: Supports recovery in areas where a Presidential disaster declaration was issued in calendar years 2021 and 2022. For Vermont, this includes a Severe Storm and Flooding (4621-DR-VT; statewide) in July 2021 and Tropical Storm Henri (3567-EM-VT; Bennington and Windham Counties) in August 2021.
Funding Entity: USDA Rural Development
Eligible Activities: Helps eligible communities prepare, or recover from, an emergency that threatens the availability of safe, reliable drinking water. Applicants must show that a major decline in quantity or quality of water occurred within two years of the date of the application. Grants are also awarded when a significant decline in quality and quantity of water is imminent.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding:
- Water transmission line grants up to $150,000 to construct waterline extensions, repair breaks or leaks in existing water distribution lines, and address related maintenance necessary to replenish the water supply
- Water source grants up to $1,000,000 for the construction of new wells, reservoirs, transmission lines, treatment plants, and/or other sources of water (water source up to and including the treatment plant)
Match: None required
Application Closing Date: Rolling
Apply Via: RDApply; Contact Rebecca Schrader, Lead Community Program Specialist, Rebecca.schrader@usda.gov, before pursuing an application
Note: Eligible entities are rural areas and towns with populations of 10,000 or less. Must also have a median household income of no more than 100 percent of a state’s non-metropolitan median household income.
Funding Entity: FEMA via Vermont Emergency Management
Eligible Activities: Supports property buyouts, infrastructure projects (drainage, elevation, flood proofing, minor localized flood reduction projects) and planning. Typical projects include mitigation of local roads and bridges, home acquisition (buyout), structural elevations or relocations, replacement of undersized culverts, mitigation outreach and education, etc. Project proposals do not need to be directly connected to damage incurred from the most recent declared disaster.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: None listed
Match: 25% of approved project costs
Application Closing Date: Required Pre-Application Form 08/30/24
Apply Via: Email. Contact Stephanie Smith, State Hazard Mitigation Officer, at 802-989-6793 or stephanie.a.smith@vermont.gov, to discuss your project before applying
Link: https://vem.vermont.gov/disaster-based-funding
Eligible Activities: Typical hazard mitigation projects include: mitigation of local roads and bridges,
Match: Management costs are 100% federally funded. Due to the recently passed state budget for FY2025, there will be no local match requirement. The program typically requires a 25% local match.
Application Closing Date: Rolling, until funds are allocated. Pre-Application Forms submitted by 08/30/24 receive priority for funding. Pre-Applications will be evaluated for eligibility, feasibility, and cost-effectiveness. Projects found to meet these requirements will then be invited to apply, provided technical assistance (if requested), and submitted to FEMA once completed, by late 2024.
Notes:
- Municipalities must have a FEMA approved and adopted local hazard mitigation plan and have an adopted Local Emergency Management Plan (LEMP). Applications accepted from municipalities lacking one or both plans, but awarded project funds will not be released until the plans are in place.
- Municipalities must be in good standing with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), if a special flood hazard area (SFHA) has been identified in the community and if the proposed project is located within the SFHA.
- A Benefit Cost Analysis is required using FEMA software. Contact the Regional Planning Commission serving your municipality for assistance.
Funding Entity: AmeriCorps (the federal agency for national service and volunteerism)
Eligible Activities: Provides a team of 8-12 AmeriCorps NCCC members to participate in disaster response, recovery, and mitigation. Examples of service activities include, but are not limited to, supporting disaster recovery centers, shelters, and facilities; preparing and distributing meals or water; mucking and gutting flood or storm-damaged homes and buildings; debris removal; roof tarping; home and other infrastructure rebuilding; flood mitigation; surveying community assets; increasing disaster preparedness and resilience to adapt to climate change; and distributing educational materials and preparedness kits.
Funding Tool: Grant of community service
Min/Max Funding: Not applicable. This is a grant of assistance.
Match: Sponsors provide adequate indoor or outdoor lodging with showers and cooking facilities for an 8-12 member team with separate female and male sleeping facilities.
Application Closing Date: Rolling
Apply Via: Online application
Link: https://americorps.gov/partner/how-it-works/americorps-nccc
Notes: Length of team service usually is 3 to 13 weeks and at least 40 hours of service activities each week. A sponsor may request assistance for up to 60 weeks, contingent upon application approval.
Funding Entity: VT Department of Environmental Conservation via its Clean Water Workforce Capacity Development Initiative Block Grant Program Administrator
Eligible Activities: Supports organizational or community-level flood relief and recovery efforts via activities such as replacing lost or damaged equipment, technology or tools; moving expense due to loss of workspace; participating in forums on flood response or recovery; organizing river clean-up events; performing preliminary assessment of clean water project losses and workload planning/priority setting; covering refund expenses or revenue losses due to forestalled or cancelled programming or projects; and covering otherwise unbillable personnel time spent on flood-related efforts like filing insurance paperwork of consulting with landowners on how to “build back better”.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Unknown at this time
Match: Unknown at this time
Application Closing Date: Rolling through 07/31/24
Apply Via: Application materials will be posted when the Block Grant Program Administrator contract is awarded.
Notes:
- This is a program pre-announcement to allow entities to prepare for the grant. Pre-award costs related to flood relief and recovery efforts starting on 07/10/23 are eligible.
- Until a Funding Program Administrator is selected, questions may be submitted to the Clean Water Initiative Program at ANR.CleanWaterVT@vermont.gov.
- This program should be a last resort once insurance and FEMA assistance for these types of replacement costs are fully capitalized. Funds from this program cannot supplant other sources.
- This opportunity will be updated as the program evolves.
Funding Entity: USDA Rural Utility Services
Eligible Activities: Supports restoration, repair, or rebuilding of water infrastructure systems, include drinking water, wastewater, solid waste, and stormwater projects related to damages from Presidentially Declared Disasters that occurred between January 1, 2022, and December 31, 2022. Also supports development of water infrastructure system capacity and resiliency to reduce or eliminate long term risks from hazards resulting from the eligible declared disaster. Costs reimbursed by insurance, FEMA, other EPA programs, state programs, and other programs cannot be covered by this program.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: No minimum or maximum award amount
Match: None required
Application Closing Date: Rolling, until funds are exhausted
Apply Via: RDApply. Contact USDA Vermont Office prior to applying.
Link:
- Program: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/water-environmental-programs/calendar-year-2022-disaster-water-grants-program
- Funding Opportunity: https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/search-grants.html and search Funding Opportunity Number RD-RUS-CY22DISASTER.
Notes: Eligible Vermont municipalities are those located in Chittenden, Essex, Franklin, Grant Isle, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, and Washington Counties (Vermont Severe Storm and Flooding (DR-4695-VT) with a population ≤35,000.
Funding Entity: USDA Rural Development
Eligible Activities: Supports repair of essential community facilities in rural areas that were damaged by Presidentially Declared Disasters in Calendar Year 2022. Example “essential community facility” includes, but it not limited to, health care facilities, town offices/halls, streets, public works, community and childcare centers, fairgrounds, public safety, libraries, museums, utility services, and local food systems (community gardens, food pantries, food banks, etc.). Repairs also include the replacement of damaged equipment or vehicles, and the purchase of new equipment to undertake repairs to damaged facilities.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: There is no minimum or maximum award amount.
Match: 25% of total project cost
Application Closing Date: When funds are exhausted
Apply Via: Contact Misty Sinsigalli, USDA Vermont office, at 802-622-4119 or misty.sinsigalli@usda.gov
Notes:
- Eligible Vermont municipalities are those located in Chittenden, Essex, Franklin, Grant Isle, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, and Washington Counties (Vermont Severe Storm and Flooding (DR-4695-VT) with a population ≤20,000. The facility to be repaired must have been damaged in the declared disaster.
- Requirements of USDA’s regular Community Facilities Direct Grant and Loan Program apply.
Funding Entity: Federal Emergency Management Agency
Eligible Activities: Provides funding for local governments to operate their essential community services after substantial revenue loss caused by a disaster. Essential services include police and fire protection, revenue collection, hazard insurance, trash collection, and public facilities maintenance. The funding can be used to carry on existing essential municipal services or to expand such services to meet disaster-related needs.
Funding Tool: Loan
Min/Max Funding: The cumulative estimated revenue loss for the fiscal year of the disaster and the subsequent three fiscal years, or up to 25 percent of a municipality’s annual operating budget for the fiscal year, or $5 million, whichever is less.
Match: None
Application Closing Date: The close of your municipality’s next fiscal year after the last day of the presidential disaster declaration incident period. For the July 2023 floods, the incident period closed 07/21/23.
Apply Via: Undetermined at this time
Link: https://www.fema.gov/assistance/public/community-disaster-loan
Notes:
- Revenue loss must be greater than or equal to five percent. Audited financial statements for the fiscal year of the disaster and the three previous fiscal years, and an original operating budget for the fiscal year of the disaster, a projected operating budgets for the subsequent fiscal year, and three-year post disaster revenue projections are required to apply.
- The loan term is five years. It can be extended to 10 years. The applicant selects the payment schedule. The interest rate is determined by the Secretary of the Treasury.
- From the second year through the life of the loan (5-10 years maximum), a municipality must provide audited financial statements to FEMA. The loan may be cancelled if the municipality can show it has a cumulative operating deficit.
Funding Entity: US Economic Development Administration
Eligible Activities: Supports construction, non-construction, technical assistance, and revolving loan fund projects under EDA’s Public Works (infrastructure, facilities and buildings, brownfields) and Economic Adjustment Assistance (CEDS development and implementation) programs
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: ~$600,000 to $5 million; average award has been $1.4 million
Match: 20% to 50% based on the region’s 24-month unemployment rate and/or per capita income
Application Closing Date: Rolling until funds have been expended
Apply Via: EDGE
Link:
- Notice of Funding Opportunity: https://www.eda.gov/funding/funding-opportunities/fiscal-year-2023-public-works-and-economic-adjustment-assistance
- EDGE grants portal: https://sfgrants.eda.gov
Funding Entity: US Economic Development Administration
Eligible Activities: Supports disaster recovery activities including economic recovery strategic planning grants, public works construction projects including broadband and resiliency projects, workforce development, capitalization of revolving loan funds, and economic development projects that enhance density in the vicinity of other economic development
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: No minimums or maximums are listed
Match: 20% 0f eligible costs, but factors such as project scale, extent of disaster impact, total project cost, relative community distress, and geographic distribution of funds can lower the match rate
Application Closing Date: Rolling until funds have been expended
Apply Via: EDGE
Link:
- Notice of Funding Opportunity: https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/search-grants.html and search Funding Opportunity Number EDA-DISASTER-2023
- EDGE grants portal: https://sfgrants.eda.gov
Note: Supports recovery in areas where a Presidential disaster declaration was issued in calendar years 2021 and 2022. For Vermont, this includes a Severe Storm and Flooding (4621-DR-VT; statewide) in July 2021 and Tropical Storm Henri (3567-EM-VT; Bennington and Windham Counties) in August 2021.
Funding Entity: Vermont Association of Conservation Districts
Eligible Activities: Installation of new dry hydrants and other types of rural water supplies (priority), repair/upgrade, replacement, relocation of existing rural water supplies (whether previously grant funded or not), and development of drafting sites (access, stepping stones for portables, etc.)
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: up to $10,000; maximum grant could be up to $20,000 if the project meets other criteria
Match: 25% of total project cost
Application Closing Date: April 1, June 1 and August 1, 2024
Apply Via: Online application sent via email
Link: https://www.vacd.org/programs/rural-fire-protection/
Note: The installation of NEW dry hydrants & other types of rural water supplies is still the priority of the program, but eligible projects also include repair/upgrade, replacement, relocation of existing rural water supplies (whether previously grant funded or not) and drafting site development (access, stepping stones for portables, etc.)
Funding Entity: US Department of Energy
Eligible Activities: Provides access to short-term technical assistance. This program matches a participating community with a relevant expert who will provide 40–60 hours of expert advice and technical services to communities on clean energy topics such as clean power, mobility, buildings, and the grid.
Funding Tool: Technical Assistance
Min/Max Funding: Grant of technical assistance services by the National Renewable Energy Lab, other national laboratories, and select organizations
Match: None
Application Closing Date: Rolling
Apply Via: Online application
Link:
- Clean Energy to Communities Program: https://www.energy.gov/eere/clean-energy-communities-program
- Clean Energy to Communities Program: Expert Match: https://www.nrel.gov/state-local-tribal/c2c-expert-match.html
Funding Entity: US Treasury Department
Eligible Activities: Renewable energy generation
Funding Tool: Direct pay tax credit (tax refund)
Application Closing Date: Annually at close of calendar year. Project must begin construction before 01/01/2025
Apply Via: Internal Revenue Service forms
Links:
Funding Entity: US Treasury Department
Eligible Activities: Zero emissions renewable energy generation
Funding Tool: Direct pay tax credit (tax refund)
Min/Max Funding: Maximum credit is determined by energy production
Match: None
Application Closing Date: Annually at close of calendar year. Project must be placed in service after 12/31/2024
Apply Via: Internal Revenue Service forms (under development)
Links:
Funding Entity: Vermont Department of Housing and Community Development
Eligible Activities: Supports comprehensive turnkey services which includes technical assistance, a design for sighting of the chargers, completion of a full plan for installation, make-ready upgrades, charging hardware, and full installation of the chargers for Vermonters at locations such as workplaces, multiunit homes, and public areas.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Level 1 chargers up to $3,600 per site for design and make ready and up to $500 per OCPP compliant port. Level 2 chargers up to $20,000 per site for design and make ready, up to $3,000 per OCPP compliant port, and up to $2,000 per non-OCPP compliant port.
Match: Varies by applicant from 0% to 10%.
Application Closing Date: Incentives are issued on a first-come, first served basis to eligible applicants until 01/15/26 or until funds are fully expended, whichever comes first.
Apply Via: Online pre-application form
Links: https://www.vermontevchargers.com/
Note:
- This statewide program is administered by Green Mountain Power.
- Pre-approved electrical contractors and local electric utilities will also offer technical assistance to help applicants who may have limited experience with EV charging.
- To ensure fair distribution, there will be caps on the total incentives issued per applicant, per site, and per county.
- Incentive can be combined with federal, state, and utility incentives with project cost limits reflective of match required.
Funding Entity: Vermont Economic Development Authority (VEDA)
Eligible Activities: Construction or reconstruction of highways, roads, bridges, and pedestrian facilities, certain facilities related to rail or public transit, and electric vehicle charging stations and natural gas refueling stations available for public use
Funding Tool: Loan
Min/Max Funding: Based on borrower’s ability to carry debt
Match: 10% to 20% equity contribution
Application Closing Date: Rolling
Apply Via: Email
Link: https://www.veda.org/financing-options/other-financing-option/state-infrastructure-bank-program/
Funding Entity: US Treasury Department
Eligible Activities: Storage or dispensing of a clean-burning fuel into the fuel tank of a motor vehicle propelled by such fuel if the storage or dispensing of the fuel is at the point where such fuel is delivered into the fuel tank of the motor vehicle, or the recharging of motor vehicles propelled by electricity. Clean-burning fuels include natural gas, liquefied natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas, hydrogen, electricity, and any other fuel at least 85 percent of which is methanol, ethanol, any other alcohol, and/or ether. Property must be located in a low-income census tract as defined under IRC § 40D9(e) or a non-urban census tract.
Funding Tool: Direct pay tax credit (tax refund)
Min/Max Funding: $100,000 per item of property
Match: N/A
Application Closing Date: Annually at close of calendar year. Project must be placed in service between 2023 - 2032.
Apply Via: Internal Revenue Service forms
Links:
Funding Entity: US Treasury Department
Eligible Activities: Purchase of a qualified motor vehicle or mobile machinery as defined in IRC 4053(8) (including vehicles that are not designed to perform a function of transporting a load over a public highway)
Funding Tool: Direct pay tax credit (tax refund)
Min/Max Funding: Up to $7,500 and up to $40,000 depending on gross vehicle weight
Match: None
Application Closing Date: Annually at close of calendar year. Vehicle must be placed in service between 2023 - 2032.
Apply Via: Internal Revenue Service forms
Links:
- Learn More: https://www.vlct.org/article/tax-incentives-municipalities-can-use-further-their-energy-goals
- IRS Forms: https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/commercial-clean-vehicle-credit#:~:text=Businesses%20and%20tax-exempt%20organizations%20that%20buy%20a%20qualified,vehicle%20is%20not%20powered%20by%20gas%20or%20diesel%29
Funding Entity: US Treasury Department
Eligible Activities: Zero emissions solar energy property, geothermal property, fiber-optic solar property, fuel cell property, microturbine property, small wind property, offshore wind property, combined heat and power property, waste energy recovery property, energy storage technology, biogas property, microgrid controllers, dynamic glass, linear generators, microturbine projects, and geothermal heat pump projects.
Funding Tool: Direct pay tax credit (tax refund)
Min/Max Funding: Maximum credit is determined by eligible energy investment
Match: No
Application Closing Date: Annually at close of calendar year. Construction begin and end dates vary by technology.
Apply Via: Internal Revenue Service forms (under development)
Links:
Funding Entity: US Treasury Department
Eligible Activities: New or retrofit buildings that increase their energy efficiency by at least 25 percent will be able to claim this deduction, with bonuses for higher efficiency improvements.
Funding Tool: Transfer of tax credit to qualified project designer
Min/Max Funding: Maximum credit is determined by IRS annually
Match: No
Application Closing Date: Annually at close of calendar year. Project must be placed in service after 12/31/2022. Credit expires 12/31/31.
Apply Via: Internal Revenue Service forms
Links:
Funding Entity: Vermont Agency of Transportation
Eligible Activities: Provides a rebate for the purchase or lease of any of the following: battery all-electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, electric bicycles and electric cargo bicycles, adaptive electric cycles, electric motorcycles, and electric snowmobiles. Base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) limits apply. Fleet owners are eligible for up to 20 incentives over the life of the program.
Funding Tool: Rebate
Min/Max Funding: Up to 25% of a vehicle's purchase price (maximum $2,500)
Match: Up to 75% of a vehicle’s purchase price
Application Closing Date: First come, first served through 06/30/25
Apply Via: Online form
Links:
- Website: https://vtrans.vermont.gov/planning/climate-change/Electrify-Your-Fleet
- Application: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ElectrifyYourFleet
Notes:
- Grantee shall order approved vehicle(s) within 30 days of an executed grant agreement with VTrans and shall enter into a lease or purchase agreement for said vehicle(s) within 90 days of an order. Exceptions (e.g., due to supply chain delays) may be granted after submitting a written request to the Agency for permission to extend the allowable timeframe.
- Applicants are encouraged to pursue related federal tax credits and local utility rebates.
Funding Entity: US Economic Development Administration
Eligible Activities: Supports construction, non-construction, technical assistance, and revolving loan fund projects under EDA’s Public Works (infrastructure, facilities and buildings, brownfields) and Economic Adjustment Assistance (CEDS development and implementation) programs
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: ~$600,000 to $5 million; average award has been $1.4 million
Match: 20% to 50% based on the region’s 24-month unemployment rate and/or per capita income
Application Closing Date: Rolling until funds have been expended
Apply Via: EDGE (EDA's grant portal)
Link:
- Notice of Funding Opportunity: https://www.eda.gov/funding/funding-opportunities/fiscal-year-2023-public-works-and-economic-adjustment-assistance
- EDGE grants portal: https://sfgrants.eda.gov
Funding Entity: US Economic Development Administration
Eligible Activities: Supports disaster recovery activities including economic recovery strategic planning grants, public works construction projects including broadband and resiliency projects, workforce development, capitalization of revolving loan funds, and economic development projects that enhance density in the vicinity of other economic development
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: No minimums or maximums are listed
Match: 20% 0f eligible costs, but factors such as project scale, extent of disaster impact, total project cost, relative community distress, and geographic distribution of funds can lower the match rate
Application Closing Date: Rolling until funds have been expended
Apply Via: EDGE
Link:
- Notice of Funding Opportunity: https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=347414&utm_content=&utm_medium=email&utm_name=&utm_source=govdelivery&utm_term=
- EDGE grants portal: https://sfgrants.eda.gov
Note: Supports recovery in areas where a Presidential disaster declaration was issued in calendar years 2021 and 2022
Funding Entity: USDA Rural Development
Eligible Activities: Provides affordable funding to develop essential community facilities in rural areas. An essential community facility 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. Examples of essential community facilities include: health care facilities; public facilities; community support services; public safety services; educational services such as museums, libraries or private schools; utility services such as telemedicine or distance learning equipment; and local food systems.
Funding Tool: Grant, loan, and loan guarantee
Min/Max Funding: No minimum or maximum noted
Match: None
Application Closing Date: Rolling
Apply Via: Email
Note:
- Eligibility is dependent on population size and area income.
- Projects are issued a grant, a loan, or (in rare instances) a grant/loan combination. Grant eligibility by town is at https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/community-facilities/community-facilities-direct-loan-grant-program/vt#to-apply:~:text=Grant%20Eligibility%20by%20Town.
Funding Entity: Vermont Bond Agency (a.k.a. Vermont Bond Bank)
Eligible Activities: Finances long-term capital projects undertaken by municipalities, school districts, and other districts. Common uses include facility renovation and construction, road and highway improvements, sidewalks and streetscapes, energy efficiency upgrades, equipment purchases, water, sewer, and stormwater, and refinancing FEMA or USDA debt.
Funding Tool: Loan
Min/Max Funding: Up to 100% financing of project costs based on overall debt capacity of the borrower
Match: None required
Application Closing Date: Rolling; Loans are made in the winter and summer following the receipt of an application and approval by the Bond Bank’s Board. Applications generally are due two months prior to the loan closing dates of ~February 28 and July 31 annually.
Apply Via: Online form
Link: https://www.vtbondbank.org/pooled-loan-progra
Note:
- Loans are primarily funded through the issuance of highly rated tax-exempt bonds by the Bond Bank.
- Requires evidence of voter approval and authority and a legal opinion from local bond counsel. List of approved legal counsels in available on the program webpage.
- Green energy and energy efficiency lending program anticipated to be available by late 2023. Solar installations, storage, and related expenses will likely be eligible.
Funding Entity: Vermont Housing and Conservation Board
Eligible Activities: Supports pre-development costs and feasibility analysis for housing and conservation projects. Eligible activities include appraisals, financial planning/evaluation, site design and land use planning, specialized studies approved by VHCB, percolation and other septic suitability tests, environmental analysis, water quality tests, market studies, options or purchase and sales contracts, and energy analysis.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Up to $10,000 for a single project; up to $15,000 for scattered housing site projects; up to $50,000 for high complexity or uncertainty projects
Match: None required
Application Closing Date: Reviewed as received
Apply Via: Email
Note:
- Grant funds are for compensated contracted services, not the applicants staff time.
- Some degree of site control is required at the time of application.
Funding Entity: Vermont Department of Housing and Community Development
Eligible Activities: Supports planning and implementation of housing, economic development, public facilities, public services, and accessibility modifications. Project must primarily benefit persons of low and moderate income.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding:
- Accessibility Modification: $5,000 to $100,000
- Planning: $3,000 to $60,000
- Implementation: $50,000 to $1 million
- Scattered Site: $50,000 to $1 million
Match: Varies by program and project type
Application Closing Date: Rolling; application submission is September, February, and April annually
Apply Via: GEARS
Link: https://accd.vermont.gov/community-development/funding-incentives/vcdp
Note: It is very helpful to contact the program staff for your region prior to initiating an application.
Funding Entity: AmeriCorps (the federal agency for national service and volunteerism)
Eligible Activities: Provides a team of 8-12 AmeriCorps NCCC members to meet critical community needs in the areas of natural and other disasters, infrastructure improvement, environmental stewardship and conservation, energy conservation, and urban and rural development. Examples of service activities include, but are not limited to, preparing for, mitigating of, responding to, and recovering from the effects of natural disasters; constructing and rehabilitating low-income housing; building and repairing trails; planting trees; removing invasive plant species; leading and managing community volunteers; installing energy efficient modifications to homes and public facilities; and addressing other local needs.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Not applicable. This is a grant of service.
Match: Not mentioned in program materials
Application Closing Date: Applications accepted and evaluated on a rolling basis through 12/31/23
Apply Via: Email
Link: https://americorps.gov/partner/funding-opportunities
Notes:
- Sponsoring organization is required to provide lodging for the team, and where applicable, is responsible for any fees associated with the lodging space. Specific accommodation requirements are outlined in the application instructions. Camping is permissible.
- Length of team service usually is 3 to 13 weeks of at least 40 hours of service activities each week.
Funding Entity: T-Mobile
Eligible Activities: Supports shovel-ready projects that foster local connections, like technology upgrades, outdoor spaces, the arts, and community centers. Only physical builds or improvements are eligible.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Up to $50,000
Match: None required
Application Closing Date: Quarterly on March 31, June 30, September 30, and December 31
Apply Via: Online portal
Note: Applicants are notified within 60 days after the quarter close, and work must be completed and all funds used within 12 months of award.
Funding Entity: AmeriCorps
Eligible Activities: You define services projects that the AmeriCorps team can complete to respond to local needs. The team of 18-26 year-olds and typically serve in one area for 3 to 13 weeks and serve for 40 hours per week. A sponsor may receive assistance for up to 60 weeks, contingent upson application approval.
Min/Max Funding: None. This is a grant of assistance.
Match: Sponsors provide adequate indoor or outdoor lodging with showers and cooking facilities for an 8-12 member team with separate female and male sleeping facilities.
Application Closing Date: Rolling
Apply Via: Online application
Link: https://americorps.gov/partner/how-it-works/americorps-nccc
Funding Entity: AmeriCorps
Eligible Activities: Entities serving as site hosts define services projects that an AmeriCorps volunteer can complete. Depending on the service project type, prospective site hosts can connect with one or more of the following AmeriCorps VISTA State organizations:
- Environmental Careers and Opportunities AmeriCorps – Implement strategies to protect and improve water quality in the Lake Champlain watershed, and to prevent recyclable and compostable materials from entering our landfills throughout Vermont.
- Vermont Housing and Conservation Board AmeriCorps - Provide housing placement and independent-living services, connect individuals and families with services to improve food access, and steward the natural environment to improve the ecosystem and increase access throughout Vermont.
- Vermont Youth Conservation Corps AmeriCorps - Complete projects in conservation and agriculture, increasing food access, developing recreational resources, and improving and protecting natural resources throughout Vermont.
- SerVermont – End poverty in Vermont by building capacity in organizations that address homelessness, provide job training, fight hunger, provide nutrition education, and address the opioid epidemic. Projects can relate to housing, employment/workforce development, federal benefit access, obesity and food resources, access to health care, energy efficiency, environmental awareness and stewardship, education, and veteran and military families.
- Lyndon Economic Opportunity AmeriCorps Program - Deliver a variety of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) educational programming to youth from PreK through 12th grade to improve childhood literacy, farm-to-school education, outdoor and natural sciences education, college preparation, and more at Lyndon State College area nonprofit organizations.
Min/Max Funding: None. This is a grant of assistance.
Match: Varies by State sponsor. In addition to a non-Federal cash match, site hosts must be able to direct the project, supervise the VISTA member, and provide necessary administrative support.
Application Closing Date: Each program has its own application closing date.
Apply Via: Email
Links: To learn about becoming a host site, visit the organization whose service area matches your project:
- Environmental Careers and Opportunities AmeriCorps (ECO VT)
- Vermont Housing and Conservation Board AmeriCorps
- Vermont Youth Conservation Corps AmeriCorps
- SerVermont
- Lyndon Economic Opportunity AmeriCorps Program (LEAP)
Note: Volunteers typically serve at a host site for one year.
Funding Entity: USDA Rural Development
Eligible Activities: Pre-qualifies projects carried out in a rural area as SECD priorities. Projects must promote and implement strategic community investment plans.
Funding Tool: Grant, loan or loan guarantee
Min/Max Funding: This program does not provide funding. It pre-qualifies a project as a priority project for other USDA programs.
Match: Match is based on the specific USDA program that an applicant will access.
Application Closing Date: Each USDA program has a different deadline for receipt of application. Awards for SECD application will be obligated by 06/30 annually.
Apply Via:USDA Rural Development Vermont/New Hampshire Office, except for Water and Waste Loans and Grants Program which are submitted electronically at https://rdapply.sc.egov.usda.gov.
Links:
- Program: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/business-programs/strategic-economic-and-community-development#overview
- Notice of Solicitation of Applications: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/02/13/2024-02782/notice-of-solicitation-of-applications-for-the-strategic-economic-and-community-development-program
Note:
- The SECD program reserves a certain percentage of funds from existing USDA programs specifically for projects with regional or state-level benefits. Designation of your project by SECD prioritizes it for those funds. A separate application for a USDA funding program, such as Community Facilities, must be submitted to that program. It does not need to be submitted at the same time as the SECD application.
- Qualified investment plans must be multijurisdictional and multisectoral. In Vermont, examples of investment plans that might qualify include a multi-municipal plan, regional plans (RPC, RDC, CUD, Community Action, CEDS, etc.), a state-level plan (CEDS, HUD Consolidated Plan, Climate Action, Forest Future Roadmap, Long-Range Transportation Plan, Agriculture and Food System Strategic Plan, Hazard Mitigation Plan, etc.), or a multi-state plan. Projects do not need to be listed by name in the applicable plan.
- SECD priority may be given to applications submitted through the following USDA programs: 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, and Rural Business Development Grants.
- The definition of “rural area” varies among USDA’s programs. Consult guidance for the program your project from which your project would receive funding.
- A letter from the entity that developed the plan your project will reference is required. The letter must state that your project is consistent with the plan and that the plan has been adopted.
Funding Entity: The Windham Foundation
Eligible Activities: Supports educational programs, local food initiatives, land conservation for public use, environmental protection, social services, cultural resources, and historic preservation. Does not fund sporting activities/events, playgrounds, day care facilities, skate parks, or emergency relief efforts.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Awards typically are $2,500 to $5,000 and rarely exceed $10,000
Match: 50% of total project cost
Application Closing Date: Four cycles per year. For 2024, the remaining cycle is 09/23/24.
Apply Via: Online application
Links: https://windham-foundation.org/grants/
Note: Municipalities can submit one application in a 12-month period and should apply for no more than three consecutive years.
Funding Entity: VLCT Property And Casualty Intermunicipal Fund (PACIF)
Eligible Activities: Certain equipment, facility improvements, and related items that have the primary benefit of reducing the potential for workers’ compensation, property, auto, or liability insurance claims. A sample list of eligible and ineligible equipment and services is included in the PACIF Grant Rules.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: $300 to $5,000; maximum award amount is based on the member’s PACIF contribution
Match:
- 50% match if a) all high level PACIF Loss Control recommendations addressed and b) at least 50% of recommendations addressed from Loss Control visits that occurred between January 1, 2022 and the date an application is received.
- 60% match if less than 50% Loss Control recommendation completed.
Application Closing Date: Rolling from January 1 through October 31 or when funds have been fully committed.
Apply Via: Online form submitted via email
Link: https://www.vlct.org/resource/pacif-grants
Note:
- Members that have outstanding high priority PACIF Loss Control recommendations are ineligible for this grant until all high priority items have been completed or unless the application will correct the open recommendation.
- Only one application per municipality is allowed per calendar year.
- Members may not have more than one application open at any one time.
- Contact the PACIF Loss Control team or your consultant for feedback on the eligibility of your request prior to submission.
Funding Entity: VLCT Property And Casualty Intermunicipal Fund (PACIF)
Eligible Activities: Host or send employees to safety workshops, risk management seminars, and other training programs related to public entity risk management and/or safety. Eligible expenses include registration, textbooks and study materials, travel by bus or airplane, and lodging.
Can be used for individual attendees or for group training. Group training typically is an onsite structured training using onsite or online training.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Individual $100 to $500. Group up to $2,500. Cumulatively, a municipality is eligible for up to $2,500 annually whether through multiple scholarships for individuals or a single group training.
Match: None required
Application Closing Date: Rolling from January 1 through October 31 or when funds have been fully committed.
Apply Via: Online form submitted via email
Link: https://www.vlct.org/resource/john-lawe-scholarships
Note:
- Must be PACIF member.
- Applications must be submitted at least 30 days before the intended training.
- Municipalities may collaborate and submit dual group applications to pool their scholarships to cover more expensive group trainings, such as The Game of Logging or law enforcement training.
Funding Entity: Vermont Natural Resources Council
Eligible Activities: Provides seed money for catalyzing community-based initiatives related to smart growth. Project might address activities such as advocacy for better land use, advancing transportation choices, supporting housing choice and affordability, promoting downtown or village center revitalization, conservation and natural resources, and public outreach and engagement.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Up to $1,500
Match: None required
Application Closing Date: Rolling
Apply Via: Online application form submitted via email
Link: https://vnrc.org/small-grants-for-smart-growth/
Note: This grant cannot be used as match to other grants.
Funding Entity: Grassroots Fund
Eligible Activities:
Seed Grants: Provides seed money to grassroots organizers to launch new projects or start to significantly change the direction of an existing project. A key focus is Environmental Justice.
Grow Grants: Supports groups to deepen their work by further developing a community vision, lowering barriers to participation, identifying new stakeholders and working to bring more voices and lived experiences into core decision-making processes.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Seed Grants: $500 to $1,000. Grow Grants: $1,000 to $4,000.
Match: None required
Application Closing Date: Seed Grants: Rolling. Grow Grants: 3rd Tuesday in March and September.
Apply Via: Online form
Link: https://grassrootsfund.org/grant-programs
Note: Generally, for Seed Grants a “new” project should be active less than two years. Grow Grants prioritize support for community groups who represent a broad range of voices in their community and who are not being reached by other funders.
Funding Entity: Community Heart & Soul
Eligible Activities: Provides start-up funding for resident-driven groups looking to implement the Community Heart & Soul model in communities with populations under 30,000. The model is a process that engages the entire population of a community in identifying what they love most about their community, what future they want for it, and how to achieve it. Eligible uses of funds include coaching, project coordination, and project-related expenses.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: $10,000
Match: $10,000
Application Closing Date: Rolling; applications are reviewed monthly
Apply Via: Online application
Link: https://www.communityheartandsoul.org/seed-grants/
Note: Applications involving more than one municipality are eligible.
Funding Entity: National Association of Realtors
Eligible Activities: Supports advancement of programs, policies and initiatives aligned with one or more of the 10 Smart Growth Principles.
- Level 1 supports efforts to educate REALTORS® and community stakeholders about smart growth topics. Activities may include a class or forum, a speaker(s) who can address specific smart growth issues, or a meeting with stakeholders to develop coalition efforts.
- Level 2 supports activities to engage in local land-use, growth and transportation issues with other stakeholders and elected officials which will have an impact on policies. These activities could include community planning and input sessions, development of comprehensive plans and zoning policies, studies, research, and reports.
- Level 3 supports comprehensive initiatives leading to long-term impact in a community with significant REALTOR® and public and private stakeholder involvement.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Level 1 up to $3,000; Level 2 up to $7,500; and Level 3 up to $15,000
Match: In 2024, the 10% financial commitment requirement is waived.
Application Closing Date: Rolling through 10/15/24 or until funds are committed, whichever comes first.
Apply Via: Online portal
Link: https://realtorparty.realtor/community-outreach/smart-growth/
Note: Applications can only be submitted by a state or local REALTOR® association so work with your local association. Up to four associations can apply for funding for the same activity.
Funding Entity: National Association of Realtors
Eligible Activities: Funds state and local REALTOR® association-led projects that create new, outdoor public spaces and destinations in a community on unused or underused sites.
- Level 1 funds outdoor demonstration and temporary projects to test a project’s viability or inspire permanent projects that increase community livability and downtown revitalization.
- Level 2 funds the creation of new outdoor public spaces and destinations in a community accessible to everyone and open at all, or most, times such as trails and trailheads, playgrounds, pocket parks, parklets, pedestrian plazas, community gardens, public gardens, dog parks, downtown gathering spots and alley activations.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Level 1 up to $3,000; Level 2 up to $7,500
Match: In 2024, the 10% financial commitment requirement is waived.
Application Closing Date: Rolling through 10/15/24 or until funds are committed, whichever comes first.
Apply Via: Applications can only be submitted by a state or local REALTOR® association so work with your local association.
Link: https://realtorparty.realtor/community-outreach/placemaking
Funding Entity: University of Vermont Leahy Institute for Rural Partnerships
Eligible Activities: Supports engaged partnerships between organizations and the University of Vermont in these focus areas: regenerative agriculture, community schools, transit and housing solutions, remote and co-working practices, resilient energy systems, healthy ecosystems, access to health care in rural areas, and policy and governance.
- Capacity Grants 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.
- Partnership Grants 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 Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Capacity Grants: up to $10,000. Seed Grants: up to $250,000.
Match: None required
Application Closing Date: Letter of Intent 09/13/24. Proposals (by invitation only) 11/15/24.
Apply Via: InfoReady (UVM’s grant platform)
Funding Entity: Vermont Department of Housing and Community Development
Eligible Activities: 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, statewide smart growth principles, planning goals, and land use policies. Projects must have a single, well-defined focus even if part of a larger project.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Single municipality $2,500 to $30,000; Consortium of municipalities $2,500 to $45,000
Match: 10% of the total project cost, except for zoning/subdivision bylaw projects in municipalities without zoning/subdivision bylaws. Match must be cash. Federal funds can be used as match.
Application Closing Date: 03/31/25
Apply Via: GEARS
Link: https://accd.vermont.gov/community-development/funding-incentives/municipal-planning-grant
Note:
- Municipalities must have a confirmed planning process to apply (ask your Regional Planning Commission).
- Municipalities that accept MPG funding are not eligible to apply for a Better Connections Grant for the same state fiscal year as the MPG award.
- Statewide priorities are defined in the Program Description guide. A new priority for this application cycle is projects that support communities for all ages and help implement Age Strong Vermont: A Roadmap for an Age-friendly State.
- Coordination with VTrans is required for any project that proposes work in the State highway right-of-way. Coordination with DEC is required for projects considering village wastewater solutions.
Funding Entity: Vermont Housing and Conservation Board
Eligible Activities: Supports purchase and conservation of recreational lands for outdoor recreation. Funds also are available for predevelopment costs and analysis for an individual project, such as appraisal services, engineering and environmental studies, options, energy assessments, and marketing analysis.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: None specified
Match: Not specified
Application Closing Date: Rolling
Apply Via: Email karen.freeman@vhcb.org for application
Link: https://vhcb.org/our-programs/conservation/non-ag-conservation
Funding Entity: MVP Health Care
Eligible Activities: Outdoor Fitness Courts®
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Cost of the Fitness Court
Match: None required
Application Closing Date: Rolling, with priority given to communities that apply within the first 60 days. Funding is available on a first come, first served basis.
Apply Via: Online application to pre-qualify
Link: https://www.nationalfitnesscampaign.com/newyork
Note:
- The Fitness Court® is an outdoor gym. MVP will fund 15 courts in Vermont for 2024.
- The courts are being designed as kinetic art pieces. Recipients may work with a local artist to customize the court.
Funding Entity: The Skatepark Project (formerly the Tony Hawk Foundation)
Eligible Activities: Supports NEW public concrete skatepark projects, including skatepark construction, skate spot construction (turn-key grants available), skateable art sculptures, permission DIY skatepark construction, active city space conversion (legalizing skateboarding in shared spaces), and accessibility improvements/repairs.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: $1,000 to $300,000 with average awards of $10,000
Match: Some fundraising must be conducted prior to applying
Application Closing Date: Letter of inquiry accepted on a rolling basis. Application submission is by invitation only.
Apply Via: Online portal
Link: https://skatepark.org/the-skatepark-project-grants/
Notes:
- Technical assistance is available on design and construction, promotional materials, and other information.
- Focus is underserved communities – defined as communities marginalized by poverty, geography, or racial, gender and other forms of social inequality or discrimination.
Funding Entity: Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department
Eligible Activities: Provides funding to marinas for constructing, renovating, and maintaining tie-up facilities for transient boaters with vessels 26 feet or greater in length. Eligible projects include mooring buoys, day-docks, navigational aids (channel markers, buoys, directional information), transient slips (slips that boaters with nontrailerable recreational vessels occupy for no more than 10 consecutive days), safe harbors for transients, floating docks and fixed piers, floating breakwaters, dinghy docks, restrooms, bulkheads, dockside utilities, pumpout stations, and dockside electric service and water supplies.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Tier 1 up to $100,000; Tier 2 up to $1 million
Match: 25% of total project costs
Application Closing Date: August 15 annually
Apply Via: All applicants must call the Department at (802) 828-1000 prior to starting an application
Link: https://vtfishandwildlife.com/get-involved/apply-for-a-grant/boating-infrastructure-grant
Notes: Facilities must meet the following minimum criteria:
- Water depth at the facility must be at least 6 feet deep at low water.
- Be open to the public.
- Able to accommodate boats 26 feet in length or greater.
- Within two miles of a public pumpout facility.
- Located on navigable waters.
Funding Entity: Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department
Eligible Activities: Provides funding to marinas for construction, renovation, operation or maintenance costs of their pumpout stations for recreational boaters. Eligible projects include:
- construction, renovation, operation, or maintenance of pumpout stations, pumpout boats, and dump stations used by boaters, and
- projects that hold and transport boater sewage to sewage treatment plants, such as holding tanks, piping, or hauling and disposal fees.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Tier 1 up to $100,000; Tier 2 up to $1 million
Match: 25% of total project costs
Application Closing Date: August 15 annually
Apply Via: All applicants must call the Department at (802) 828-1000 prior to starting an application to ensure project eligibility and obtain the most up-to-date information on funding and the application process.
Link: https://vtfishandwildlife.com/get-involved/apply-for-a-grant/clean-vessel-act-grant
Funding Entity: Vermont Economic Development Authority (VEDA)
Eligible Activities: Construction or reconstruction of highways, roads, bridges, and pedestrian facilities, certain facilities related to rail or public transit, and electric vehicle charging stations and natural gas refueling stations available for public use
Funding Tool: Loan
Min/Max Funding: Based on borrower’s ability to carry debt
Match: 10% to 20% equity contribution
Application Closing Date: Rolling
Apply Via: Email
Link: https://www.veda.org/financing-options/other-financing-option/state-infrastructure-bank-program/
Funding Entity: Vermont Department of Housing and Community Development
Eligible Activities: Supports comprehensive turnkey services which includes technical assistance, a design for sighting of the chargers, completion of a full plan for installation, make-ready upgrades, charging hardware, and full installation of the chargers for Vermonters at locations such as workplaces, multiunit homes, and public areas.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Level 1 chargers up to $3,600 per site for design and make ready and up to $500 per OCPP compliant port. Level 2 chargers up to $20,000 per site for design and make ready, up to $3,000 per OCPP compliant port, and up to $2,000 per non-OCPP compliant port.
Match: Varies by applicant from 0% to 10%.
Application Closing Date: Incentives are issued on a first-come, first served basis to eligible applicants until 01/15/26 or until funds are fully expended, whichever comes first.
Apply Via: Online pre-application form
Links:
- Program: https://www.chargevermont.com/
- Application: https://www.chargevermont.com/apply/
Notes:
- This statewide program is administered by Green Mountain Power.
- Pre-approved electrical contractors and local electric utilities will also offer technical assistance to help applicants who may have limited experience with EV charging.
- To ensure fair distribution, there will be caps on the total incentives issued per applicant, per site, and per county.
- Incentive can be combined with federal, state, and utility incentives with project cost limits reflective of match required.
Funding Entity: US Treasury Department
Eligible Activities: Storage or dispensing of a clean-burning fuel into the fuel tank of a motor vehicle propelled by such fuel if the storage or dispensing of the fuel is at the point where such fuel is delivered into the fuel tank of the motor vehicle, or the recharging of motor vehicles propelled by electricity. Clean-burning fuels include natural gas, liquefied natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas, hydrogen, electricity, and any other fuel at least 85 percent of which is methanol, ethanol, any other alcohol, and/or ether. Property must be located in a low-income census tract as defined under IRC § 40D9(e) or a non-urban census tract.
Funding Tool: Direct pay tax credit (tax refund)
Min/Max Funding: $100,000 per item of property
Match: N/A
Application Closing Date: Annually at close of calendar year. Project must be placed in service between 2023 - 2032.
Apply Via: Internal Revenue Service forms
Links:
Funding Entity: State Infrastructure Bank via Vermont Economic Development Authority
Eligible Activities: Electric vehicle charging stations and natural gas refueling stations available for public use
Funding Tool: Loan
Min/Max Funding: Up to $100,000
Match: None required
Application Closing Date: Rolling
Apply Via: Email
Funding Entity: US Treasury Department
Eligible Activities: Purchase of a qualified motor vehicle or mobile machinery as defined in IRC 4053(8) (including vehicles that are not designed to perform a function of transporting a load over a public highway)
Funding Tool: Direct pay tax credit (tax refund)
Min/Max Funding: Up to $7,500 and up to $40,000 depending on gross vehicle weight
Match: None
Application Closing Date: Annually at close of calendar year. Vehicle must be placed in service between 2023 - 2032.
Apply Via: Internal Revenue Service forms
Links:
- Learn More: https://www.vlct.org/article/tax-incentives-municipalities-can-use-further-their-energy-goals
- IRS Forms: https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/commercial-clean-vehicle-credit#:~:text=Businesses%20and%20tax-exempt%20organizations%20that%20buy%20a%20qualified,vehicle%20is%20not%20powered%20by%20gas%20or%20diesel%29
Funding Entity: Vermont Agency of Transportation
Eligible Activities: Provides a rebate for the purchase or lease of any of the following: battery all-electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, electric bicycles and electric cargo bicycles, adaptive electric cycles, electric motorcycles, and electric snowmobiles. Base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) limits apply. Fleet owners are eligible for up to 20 incentives over the life of the program.
Funding Tool: Rebate
Min/Max Funding: Up to 25% of a vehicles purchase price (maximum $2,500)
Match: Up to 75% of a vehicle’s purchase price
Application Closing Date: First come, first served through 06/30/25
Apply Via: Online form
Links:
- Website: https://vtrans.vermont.gov/planning/climate-change/Electrify-Your-Fleet
- Application: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ElectrifyYourFleet
Notes:
- Grantee shall order approved vehicle(s) within 30 days of an executed grant agreement with VTrans and shall enter into a lease or purchase agreement for said vehicle(s) within 90 days of an order. Exceptions (e.g., due to supply chain delays) may be granted after submitting a written request to the Agency for permission to extend the allowable timeframe.
- Applicants are encouraged to pursue related federal tax credits and local utility rebates.
Funding Entity: Federal Highway Administration
Eligible Activities: Supports projects to improve bridge and culvert condition, safety, efficiency, and reliability. Project must be included on the National Bridge Inventory. There are two categories of projects. Bridge Project grants replace, rehabilitate, preserve, or protect one or more bridges on the National Bridge Inventory for projects with total eligible costs not greater than $100 million. This includes bridge bundling and culverts. Eligible costs include development phase activities, construction, and protection of a bridge, including scour protection. Planning grants support planning, feasibility analyses, and revenue forecasting associated with the development of a project that would subsequently be eligible to apply for assistance under the Bridge Investment Program.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Up to $20 million for planning. $2.5 million to $80 million bridge projects
Match: 20% of total eligible project costs; planning grants may have a different match per 23 U.S.C. 120.
Application Closing Date: Rolling. Submission encouraged by 10/01/25 for planning projects and 11/01/25 for bridge projects.
Apply Via: Grants.gov
Links:
- Learn More: https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/bridge/bip/index.cfm
- Notice of Funding Opportunity: https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/search-grants.html and search Opportunity Number 693JJ324NF00006.
Notes:
- Projects must use FHWAs Benefit-Cost Analysis Tool.
- At least one eligible large bridge project or two eligible bridge (smaller) projects are expected to be awarded in each state. Vermont was not awarded a grant in 2022. Consultation with the Vermont Agency of Transportation and the Vermont office of the Federal Highway Administration is encouraged prior to applying.
- DOT may award no more than 5 percent of funds made available for each fiscal year to eligible projects solely consisting of culvert replacement or rehabilitation.
For bridge construction projects, preliminary engineering must be complete and the project must reasonably expect to begin construction no later than 18 months after FHWA obligates funds for the project.
Funding Entity: US Department of Transportation
Eligible Activities: Provides planning or constructing surface transportation infrastructure projects that will improve safety; environmental sustainability; quality of life; mobility and community connectivity; economic competitiveness and opportunity including tourism; state of good repair; partnership and collaboration; and innovation. Eligible projects include certain highway or bridge projects, public transportation projects, and passenger and freight rail transportation projects; port infrastructure investments (including inland port infrastructure and land ports of entry); the surface transportation components of a certain airport projects; intermodal projects whose components are otherwise an eligible project type; projects to replace or rehabilitate a culvert or prevent stormwater runoff for the purpose of improving habitat for aquatic species while advancing the goals of the RAISE program; projects investing in surface transportation facilities that are located on Tribal land and for which title or maintenance responsibility is vested in the Federal Government; and any other surface transportation infrastructure project that the Secretary considers to be necessary to advance the goals of the program.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Up to $25 million for planning; $5 to $25 million for capital
Match: 20% of eligible project costs unless the project is located in a rural area, a historically disadvantaged community, or an area of persistent poverty. Definitions for these terms and their eligible areas are available at https://www.transportation.gov/RAISEgrants/raise-app-hdc.
Application Closing Date: Multiple fiscal years: 01/13/25 and 01/13/26 respectively.
Apply Via: Grants.gov
Links:
- Learn More: https://www.transportation.gov/RAISEgrants
- Notice of Funding Opportunity: https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/search-grants.html and search Opportunity Number DTOS59-24-RA-RAISE
Notes: Applicants must complete a Benefit-Cost Analysis. Applicants should review the Department’s detailed guidance on how to conduct this analysis.
Funding Entity: Federal Highway Administration
Eligible Activities: Supports non-construction and construction projects that seek to reduce the number of wildlife-vehicle collisions and improve habitat connectivity for terrestrial and aquatic species. Example projects include research on safety innovations and mitigation effectiveness; mapping tool development; planning studies to identify migration corridors and roadway barriers; public education and outreach on hazards; permitting and right-of-way acquisition to construct a wildlife crossing; adaptation or replacement of a culvert or bridge to accommodate connectivity; and preservation or restoration of habitat necessary to crossing effectiveness.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: No minimum or maximum but projects of $200,000 to $25 million are encouraged
Match: 20% of the total project cost
Application Closing Date: 08/02/25
Apply Via: .Grants.gov
Link: https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/search-grants.html and search Funding Opportunity Number 693JJ324NF00023
Notes:
- 60% or more of available funds are expected to be awarded to rural areas.
- Documentation demonstrating consultation with VTrans is required. Examples of documentation includes letters, agreements, and signed meeting minutes.
- If your municipality is considering an application, it can be helpful to contact Jacqui DeMent, Community Planner and Grants Manager, US Department of Transportation Federal Highways Administration - Vermont Division, at Jacqueline.dement@dot.gov or 802-828-4573. While FHWA Division office staff cannot review grant applications, they can discuss process, eligibility, and the general scope of potential projects.
Funding Entity: Vermont Agency of Transportation
Eligible Activities: Complete a road erosion inventory on hydrologically connected road segments that currently do not meet standards in compliance with the Municipal Roads General Permit (MRGP)
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: See grant materials for eligible amount funding limit per municipality
Match: 20% of total project cost
Application Closing Date: First come, first served until available funding has been exhausted or 12/31/24, whichever comes first
Apply via: Letter of Intent
Links: https://vtrans.vermont.gov/highway/better-roads
Note: Must be compliant with the MRGP requirements at the time of award.
Funding Entity: Vermont Agency of Transportation
Eligible Activities: Supports correction of a road related erosion problem and/or stormwater mitigation (Cat B), correction of a stream bank, lake shore or slope related problem (Cat C), and new construction or replacement of a structure/culvert 36” diameter or greater (Cat D)
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Cat B up to $20,000; Cat C up to $40,000; and Cat D up to $60,000
Match: 20% of total project cost
Application Closing Date: 12/27/24
Apply via: Email
Links: https://vtrans.vermont.gov/highway/better-roads
Note: Municipalities may apply for more than one grant but are only eligible for the maximum grant amount for each category. Road BMP upgrades are considered the highest priority for grant funding when road segments are “hydrologically-connected,” currently “not meeting” MRGP standards, and road slopes are greater than 10%.
Funding Entity: Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation
Eligible Activities: Planning, design, source protection, and construction of public water systems that improve public health protection and facilitate compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act
Funding Tool: Loan
Min/Max Funding: No minimum or maximum noted except for Asset Management Planning Loans which have a $50,000 maximum
Match: None
Application Closing Date: Closing Date for inclusion on the Vermont Intended Use Plan generally is January annually (See Note below). Applications for funding are generally due in July.
Apply Via:
- Intended Use Plan: https://dec.vermont.gov/water-investment/water-financing/srf/priority-list.
- Funding Application: https://dec.vermont.gov/water-investment/forms#:~:text=RD%20Certification%20Form-,FUNDING%20APPLICATION,-%2D%20Funding%20Application%20for
Link: https://dec.vermont.gov/water-investment/water-financing/dwsrf
Note: Each year the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) publish Intended Use Plans (IUPs) that explain how funding provided by the Federal government will be used. The IUP lists projects that have requested funding in a year and sets the State’s project priorities. Projects must be on the priority list or be accepted as an “emergency” project and must meet readiness to proceed criteria to receive funding. The Closing Date reflects the last date to submit projects for inclusion in the IUP for the upcoming funding cycle.
Funding Entity: USDA Rural Development
Eligible Activities: Supports development and construction of clean and reliable drinking water systems, sanitary sewage disposal, sanitary solid waste disposal, and storm water drainage in rural communities with populations of 10,000 or less. Funds may be used for acquisition, construction or improvements, and in some cases, related activities such as legal and engineering fees, land acquisition, permitting, start-up operations and maintenance, and other activities.
Funding Tool: Grant and loan
Min/Max Funding: No minimum or maximum noted
Match: None
Application Closing Date: Rolling
Apply Via: RDApply
Notes:
- Eligibility is dependent on population size and area income.
- Grant eligible by town is available on the program website. Contact USDA before starting an application.
Funding Entity: USDA Rural Development
Eligible Activities: Supports low-income communities plan and develop applications for proposed USDA Rural Development water or waste disposal projects in rural communities with populations of 10,000 or less and a median household income below the poverty line or less than 80 percent of the statewide non-metropolitan median household income.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: Program materials list conflicting information. Maximum funding is either $25,000 or $60,000 or 75% of the predevelopment planning costs.
Match: At least 25% of the project cost
Application Closing Date: This grant notes it is open. Application deadlines are listed as 2022 and 2023. Contact USDA Vermont office to inquire before starting an application.
Apply Via: RDApply
Note:
- Even if your community is not grant eligible based on its Median Household Income (MHI), your project may still be eligible based on the MHI of its service area. Contact USDA Vermont to explore a project-based eligibility determination.
- These grants do not have to be paid back if the application for a USDA-funded project is not successful. If awarded a grant, the grant amount will be subtracted from the total grant eligibility if a USDA grant is awarded for part of the water or waste disposal project.
Funding Entity: Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation
Eligible Activities: Planning, final design, and construction of wastewater collection system and treatment facility construction, upgrade or refurbishment; water and energy efficiency or environmentally innovative projects; combined sewer overflow elimination; stormwater treatment and green infrastructure; community decentralized wastewater disposal systems non-point source pollution prevention, including natural resources projects; sewer extensions; and contaminated sites
Funding Tool: Loan
Min/Max Funding: No minimum or maximum noted
Match: None required
Application Closing Date: Closing Date for inclusion on the Vermont Intended Use Plan generally is January annually (See Note below). Applications for funding are generally due in July.
Apply Via:
- Intended Use Plan: https://dec.vermont.gov/water-investment/water-financing/srf/priority-list.
- Funding Application: https://dec.vermont.gov/water-investment/forms#:~:text=RD%20Certification%20Form-,FUNDING%20APPLICATION,-%2D%20Funding%20Application%20for
Link: https://dec.vermont.gov/water-investment/water-financing/cwsrf
Note: Each year the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) publish Intended Use Plans (IUPs) that explain how funding provided by the Federal government will be used. The IUP lists projects that have requested funding in a year and sets the State’s project priorities. Projects must be on the priority list or be accepted as an “emergency” project and must meet readiness to proceed criteria to receive funding. The Closing Date reflects the last date to submit projects for inclusion in the IUP for the upcoming funding cycle.
Funding Entity: USDA Rural Utility Services
Eligible Activities: Supports restoration, repair, or rebuilding of water infrastructure systems, include drinking water, wastewater, solid waste, and stormwater projects related to damages from Presidentially Declared Disasters that occurred between January 1, 2022, and December 31, 2022. Also supports development of water infrastructure system capacity and resiliency to reduce or eliminate long term risks from hazards resulting from the eligible declared disaster. Costs reimbursed by insurance, FEMA, other EPA programs, state programs, and other programs cannot be covered by this program.
Funding Tool: Grant
Min/Max Funding: No minimum or maximum award amount
Match: None required
Application Closing Date: Rolling, until funds are exhausted
Apply Via: RDApply. Contact USDA Vermont Office prior to applying.
Link:
- Program: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/water-environmental-programs/calendar-year-2022-disaster-water-grants-program
- Funding Opportunity: https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/search-grants.html and search Funding Opportunity Number RD-RUS-CY22DISASTER.
Notes: Eligible Vermont municipalities are those located in Chittenden, Essex, Franklin, Grant Isle, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, and Washington Counties (Vermont Severe Storm and Flooding (DR-4695-VT) with a population ≤35,000.
Funding Entity: Environmental Protection Agency
Eligible Activities: Services may include:
- Conducting an assessment of the community’s wastewater needs
- Evaluating the feasibility of wastewater solutions, including performing a rate study
- Identifying funding options, such as grants and financing
- Helping with completing the preliminary engineering and paperwork requirements for funding applications
- Assisting community/county with establishing an ordinance for wastewater management
- Conducting trainings to identify funding and support structures for the long-term operations and maintenance of a wastewater system
- Assisting interested entities in applying for federal funding to make solutions a reality.
Funding Tool: Grant of consultant services
Min/Max Funding: There is no direct funding provided to the municipality. EPA and a community will work together to identify and select practical, real-life solutions that work for the community. Participating communities are matched with an EPA contractor or grantee organization that has expertise specific to the community’s needs.
Match: None required
Application Closing Date: Rolling
Apply Via: Complete the WaterTA request form
Links: https://www.epa.gov/water-infrastructure/closing-americas-wastewater-access-gap
Note: Communities that can demonstrate water quality or infrastructure concerns are more competitive. Communities that qualify as a “disadvantaged community” within Vermont or meet affordability criteria as defined by Vermont's Drinking Water or Clean Water State Revolving program are most competitive.