Funding Available Through the Spark Connecting Community Grant Program

Funding is now available for organizations and projects across Vermont through the Spark Connecting Community competitive grant program at the Vermont Community Foundation. Spark supports emerging grassroots projects that nurture community and build social capital—the connective tissue of our communities. Spark values community resilience and strength, increased civic engagement, and collaboration among organizations.

The program will accept applications from new hyperlocal, place-based projects or new statewide/regional projects that support a community of individuals with a shared identity or interest. In 2026, Spark will prioritize place-making initiatives in under-represented counties in grantmaking. All counties in Vermont are welcome to apply, and priority consideration will be given to:

• Applications from Essex, Grand Isle, and Franklin counties
• Applicants with operating budgets of $500,000 or less
  

  Photo Credit: Murphy Robinson

Spark awards grants of $500-$5,000. First-time grant writers are encouraged to apply. Applications will be accepted through 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31, 2026. Applicants will be notified about grant decisions by late April 2026.

The Spark Connecting Community grant program will offer one competitive grant round in 2026. Visit vermontcf.org/spark to learn more and apply.