Vermont Creative Aging Grant

The Vermont Creative Aging Grant for FY2026 is administered by the Vermont Arts Council, an organization that works to foster and support the arts across the state. The grant is part of the Council’s broader Creative Aging initiative, which was launched in 2021 to recognize and support the role of the arts in improving the quality of life for older adults. Rooted in research that demonstrates the benefits of artistic engagement, the program supports projects that enhance emotional well-being, strengthen physical and cognitive health, and foster social bonds among older Vermonters. The program specifically funds arts-based projects designed for adults aged 60 and older, led by experienced teaching artists. Applicants may request up to $6,000, with an average award amount of $4,000. Larger awards are reserved for projects that provide extended-learning opportunities, such as multi-session workshops, multiple artistic disciplines, or programming that serves diverse groups of older adults over longer periods. All projects must be planned to occur between January 1, 2026, and August 31, 2026. Award payments are contingent upon submission of a signed contract, W-9 form, and direct deposit authorization, with disbursement beginning after January 7, 2026. Eligible applicants include Vermont nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, state agencies, county and municipal governments, arts organizations, senior centers, and area agencies on aging. Collaborations across organizations are encouraged, and applicants who have received previous Creative Aging grants are welcome to reapply. Individuals, however, are not eligible to apply, nor are organizations with outstanding or incomplete reporting obligations from prior Vermont Arts Council grants. All applicants must also obtain a Unique Entity ID (UEI) from SAM.gov in order to receive funding. Applications are due by October 17, 2025. Submissions are reviewed by an independent panel, which evaluates applications on artistic merit (40 percent), impact (40 percent), and project management (20 percent). Artistic merit emphasizes well-planned opportunities that allow participants to develop new artistic skills, while impact prioritizes social engagement, accessibility, and measurable outcomes. Project management criteria focus on a clear budget, timeline, and compliance with access and nondiscrimination standards. Notifications of funding decisions will be made by December 20, 2025. Grantees are expected to deliver multi-day projects guided by qualified teaching artists and may provide either in-person or remote learning opportunities. They must acknowledge the Vermont Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts in all publicity materials. A final report is required within 30 days of completing the funded activity and no later than September 30, 2026. The Council also requires recipients to adhere to nondiscrimination laws, including the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and its 2008 amendment. For questions about the grant program, applicants may contact Troy Hickman by phone at 802.402.4496 or by email at thickman@vermontartscouncil.org. For technical support related to the online application portal, Meredith Bell is available at 802.402.4478 or via email. These resources provide applicants with guidance on eligibility, accessibility accommodations, and application completion to ensure compliance with all program requirements.

Include sequential instruction, measurable goals, and strong accessibility/community engagement plans