Vermont Humanities announces Project Grants

advance public engagement with the humanities. Awards can be up to $5,000 and are available to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, municipalities, and state or federally recognized tribes. Organizations currently holding an open Project Grant from Vermont Humanities are not eligible to apply again until the existing grant is closed. Funded projects may include community programs that encourage participation in humanities-based discussions, curriculum development efforts aimed at increasing access to the humanities, and humanities experiences crafted to serve specific affinity groups or foster interaction across multiple groups. Both new and existing projects are eligible. The program places a strong emphasis on projects that promote inclusion and collaboration, as well as those that occur in underserved, rural, or under-resourced communities. Applications are reviewed three times annually. For 2025, deadlines are February 26, May 21, and September 10, with award notifications following approximately six weeks later. Applications must be submitted online via Submittable, a platform that allows users to save and revisit their work. Vermont Humanities encourages potential applicants to reach out in advance for guidance, although staffing limitations now restrict direct pre-application consultation. Evaluation criteria include alignment with Vermont Humanities’ mission to foster vibrant communities through lifelong learning, the project's ability to increase public understanding of the humanities, and strategies for civic engagement and partnership. Additional considerations include geographic and demographic inclusivity, adherence to accessibility standards, and clear metrics for evaluating project success. Applicants are required to submit comprehensive information about their organization, including mission, contacts, and fiscal details. The proposal itself should contain a summary, requested amount, project timeline, anticipated costs to participants, and detailed budget. Applicants must also address narrative questions related to project goals, evaluation strategies, community engagement, and accessibility. Specific contact for grant inquiries is Ryan at Vermont Humanities, reachable at ryan@vermonthumanities.org or (802) 262-1354. The mailing address for Vermont Humanities is 11 Loomis Street, Montpelier, VT 05602. While Vermont Humanities is continuing its support for community-based humanities work, it has recently experienced a significant budget cut due to the termination of its NEH general operating grant, which previously covered 42% of its funding.