Funding Available to Support Arts and Social Cohesion Projects in Vermont 

The sense of belonging and connection people feel in their communities has a powerful influence on mental and physical health. At a time of polarization, disruption, and disconnection, the arts can help bring people back together to work, play, create, and solve problems at the community level, with meaningful impacts on wellbeing.

The Vermont Community Foundation has new funding available for projects and events in the visual, performing, musical, and literary arts that create opportunities for positive social interaction, engagement, and collaboration. We invite Letters of Interest (LOI) from nonprofits, schools, libraries, and other community and cultural organizations. Projects should strengthen belonging and community cohesion in ways that are likely to persist and grow.

The Civic Standard (The Civic Standard Theater Project, Variety Show), Photo Credit: Terry J. Allen

This grant program is made possible by a Vermont Community Foundation fundholder and aligns with the Foundation’s goals to improve health and wellbeing and close the opportunity gap that leaves too many Vermont residents struggling to thrive.

Grants are expected to average $7,500, with awards of up to $12,000 to support a range of project types and sizes across the state.

LOIs will be accepted between April 14 and May 11, 2026. Submissions must be received by 5 p.m. Monday, May 11 to be considered. LOIs will only be accepted through our online grants management platform, available on our website at vermontcf.org/for-nonprofits. Following a review of all LOIs, a smaller number of organizations will be invited to submit a full application for funding consideration. Organizations will be notified of their LOI status by May 18.

For more information and to submit a Letter of Interest, visit vermontcf.org/arts-social-cohesion.