Volunteer Engagement Mini-Grants

Volunteer NH, a nonprofit organization established in 2000 and overseen by a board appointed by the Governor of New Hampshire, serves as the state's designated commission for volunteerism. The organization aims to strengthen communities across the state through engagement in volunteer service. Through its Volunteer Engagement Mini-Grant program, Volunteer NH supports organizations that rely on volunteers to address local needs. The current round, referred to as Round IV of the FY25 NH Volunteer Engagement Mini-Grants, is supported by Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds passed through the State of New Hampshire under Assistance Listing Number 21.027. This funding opportunity invites eligible non-federal entities serving New Hampshire communities to apply for grants that support one-time projects designed to increase their capacity to recruit, retain, train, and manage volunteers. Organizations may apply for funding ranging from $1,000 to $4,000 for projects that fall into specific categories, such as volunteer management technology and supplies, volunteer outreach, volunteer or volunteer manager training, and volunteer program development or improvement. All activities and purchases funded through this grant must be new and must directly support the organization’s volunteer programming. Requests to expand ongoing programs or cover general organizational expenses will not be considered. Ineligible expenses include staff salaries, volunteer stipends, food, fundraising-related activities, recognition events, gifts, or ongoing software subscription costs. The grant period runs from September 15, 2025 through December 31, 2025, with a final report and expense documentation due by January 31, 2026. This grant is non-renewable, and extensions to the grant period are not permitted without express written approval. Volunteer NH will only consider one reimbursement request per grantee, and funds will be distributed on a cost-reimbursement basis. Applicants must apply through the Volunteer NH online portal. The application window opens on August 13, 2025, at 8:00 AM and closes on September 3, 2025, at 11:59 PM. Volunteer NH staff are only available for support during weekday office hours (8:00 AM–4:00 PM). The grant does not require a match, and only one Mini-Grant may be awarded per organization per calendar year. Organizations that have already received a Mini-Grant in 2025 or those that received a FY24 NH Volunteer Engagement Project Grant are ineligible. A Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) from SAM.gov is required at the time of application, though full SAM registration is not unless the applicant receives other federal awards. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, state or local governments, and public or private institutions of higher education that serve communities in New Hampshire. Fiscal sponsors may be used if coordinated in advance with Volunteer NH. Preference may be given to applicants focusing on capacity-building, those who have not previously received Volunteer NH funding, organizations working within priority areas (mental health, food security, or affordable housing), and those serving communities in Coos County. Applications must provide details about the applicant organization, specify the intended use of the funds, and explain how the proposed activity will enhance their volunteer management. Volunteer NH will host a mini-grant info session and office hours on August 26, 2025, at 10:00 AM, with links available for registration and recorded materials. Funding decisions will be announced by September 10, 2025. All funded applicants must sign a subgrant agreement with Volunteer NH and comply with the applicable federal guidelines under 2 CFR Part 200.

Attend the optional info session on August 26, review FAQs and sample budgets, and ensure costs align with allowable categories.