The Crosby-Gannett Fund, administered by the Vermont Community Foundation, supports initiatives that enhance the vitality and well-being of the Brattleboro area. Originally established with the assets of the Crosby Foundation in 2009 and renamed in 2012 to honor Senator Robert T. Gannett, the fund has evolved its strategy to make more substantial and impactful contributions to the community.
Beginning in 2023, the Crosby-Gannett Fund now awards a single three-year grant of $7,500 annually, totaling $22,500 over the full term. This model is designed to provide consistent, meaningful support for innovative and community-driven projects. The goal is to help transformative ideas flourish by offering reliable, multi-year funding to bolster capacity and long-term planning.
Eligible use of grant funds includes support for programming, capital improvements, and general operations. However, the grant does not support endowments or coverage of operating deficits. The fund emphasizes support for small, community-based organizations or distinct projects within larger institutions. Larger organizations (with annual budgets over $1 million) must demonstrate why their proposals cannot be funded through existing means and how this grant would create a substantial impact.
Applicants must be schools, municipal entities, or nonprofit organizations serving the Brattleboro area. Applications are judged on several criteria, including clearly identifying a community challenge, having defined goals and measurable outcomes, fostering inclusivity and environmental consciousness, leveraging partnerships, and enhancing the community's cultural, social, or economic vitality.
Applications are accepted between March 18 and April 29, 2025, with a strict deadline of 5 PM on April 29. Funded activities may begin as early as May 2025 and must be completed by May 2026. Applicants will be notified of decisions by June 2025 via the email used for submission.
For questions, applicants may contact Jane Mulcahy at the Vermont Community Foundation by phone or email. Further application requirements are listed on the foundation’s For Nonprofits page, and all applicants must adhere to the general guidelines and criteria specified by the Foundation.
