Foundations
347
Total Assets
$1.3B
Total Giving
$345.6M
Active Grants
467
National Rank
#48
Vermont Grant Programs: Small Business Support, Community Development, and Nonprofit Funding
Vermont's grant landscape reflects the state's distinctive character as a small, community-oriented economy that values sustainability, equity, and local enterprise. The Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development (ACCD) serves as the primary hub for business-facing grant programs, administering initiatives like the Vermont Training Program, the State Trade Expansion Program, and the Elevate Vermont SBIR/STTR matching grant.
These programs demonstrate Vermont's strategic approach to economic development: rather than competing for mega-deals with tax abatements, the state invests in building the capabilities of existing businesses, supporting workforce training, and helping entrepreneurs access the technical assistance and capital they need to grow. With 12 Regional Development Centers providing localized business support across the state, Vermont ensures that grant programs reach every corner of a geographically dispersed economy.
Key State Programs
Vermont Training Program (VTP)
Performance-based workforce training grants covering up to 50 percent of training costs for pre-employment, new hire, and incumbent employee development. Operating for over 30 years through the Agency of Commerce and Community Development, with grants available to employers across all sectors.
State Trade Expansion Program (STEP)
SBA-funded program administered by ACCD reimbursing eligible Vermont businesses up to 75 percent of pre-approved export-related expenses, with a maximum of $30,000 per year. Supports market research, trade show participation, international marketing, and other activities that expand global market access.
Elevate Vermont (SBIR/STTR Matching Grants)
Non-competitive matching grants of up to $50,000 for Vermont-based technology businesses that have received federal SBIR or STTR Phase I or Phase II awards. Supports targeted technical and research assistance to accelerate commercialization of innovative technologies.
Vermont Women's Fund Grants
Annual competitive grants through the Vermont Community Foundation supporting programs that advance economic security and opportunity for women, girls, and gender diverse individuals. Distributed $359,336 to 39 organizations in 2025, with the next cycle opening January 2026.
Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program
Approximately $1 million in grants ranging from $30,000 to $100,000 for purchasing equipment supporting food supply chain activities in Vermont. Supports farms, processors, distributors, and other food system enterprises strengthening local and regional food access.
Frequently Asked Questions
What state agency manages business grants in Vermont?
The Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development (ACCD), specifically its Department of Economic Development, administers most business-facing grant programs. ACCD manages the Vermont Training Program, State Trade Expansion Program, and Elevate Vermont, among other initiatives. The agency also coordinates with 12 Regional Development Centers across the state that serve as local points of access for state programs and technical assistance.
Are there workforce training grants for Vermont employers?
Yes, the Vermont Training Program (VTP) has been providing performance-based workforce training grants for over 30 years. The program covers up to 50 percent of training costs for pre-employment, new hire, and incumbent employee training. Grants are available to employers across all sectors and are designed to support customized training that addresses specific workforce needs. Applications are managed through the Agency of Commerce and Community Development.
What grants are available for Vermont nonprofits?
Vermont nonprofits have access to a robust set of funding sources. The Vermont Community Foundation offers Nonprofit Capacity Building grants, Special and Urgent Needs grants, and the Vermont Women's Fund. The Ben and Jerry's Foundation provides grants up to $15,000 for equity and justice work. State agencies administer targeted programs including food systems infrastructure grants and environmental conservation funding. Common Good Vermont maintains a comprehensive directory of current opportunities for Vermont nonprofits.
How can Vermont businesses get help with international trade and exports?
The State Trade Expansion Program (STEP), administered by ACCD with SBA funding, reimburses eligible Vermont businesses up to 75 percent of pre-approved export-related expenses to a maximum of $30,000 per year. Eligible expenses include trade show participation, international marketing, market research, and other activities that help Vermont businesses expand into global markets. The Department of Economic Development can help businesses determine eligibility and plan export strategies.
Does Vermont offer grants for technology startups and innovators?
The Elevate Vermont program provides non-competitive matching grants of up to $50,000 for Vermont-based businesses that have received federal SBIR or STTR Phase I or Phase II awards. This program supports research and commercialization activities in the state's growing technology sector. Additionally, the Vermont Center for Emerging Technologies and regional development centers provide mentoring, networking, and connections to other funding sources for technology startups.
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Vermont Funding Resources
Top Foundations
Largest Foundations in Vermont
| # | Foundation | Assets |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Three Thirty Three Foundation Inc. | $105.5M |
| 2 | Concrete Foundation Inc. | $104.5M |
| 3 | Jules Olitski Art Foundation Inc. | $72.7M |
| 4 | Hoehl Family Foundation | $57.2M |
| 5 | Hall Art Foundation Inc. | $53.5M |
Active Grants