The Vermont Humanities Project Grants provide financial support for community and curriculum development projects that promote engagement with the humanities across Vermont. These grants are administered directly by Vermont Humanities, the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities and the Library of Congress Center for the Book, but do not use federal funding. Vermont Humanities is dedicated to creating just, vibrant, and resilient communities through the power of the humanities and supports a broad range of public programming and educational initiatives.

The Project Grants award up to $5,000 to support initiatives that foster discourse in the humanities, develop accessible curricula, and encourage engagement across affinity groups. Eligible projects may be either new or continuing efforts. Funded activities can include public events, curriculum development projects, and collaborative engagements that elevate understanding and participation in humanities-based education and discussion.

Grant applications are reviewed three times annually. For 2025, the deadlines are February 26 (winter/spring), May 21 (summer), and September 10 (fall), with award notifications occurring approximately six weeks after each deadline. The grant application process is managed through Submittable, an online submission platform, and applicants are encouraged to review application questions in advance and reach out to Vermont Humanities for guidance before submitting. Summer 2025 applications will open during the week of April 14, 2025.

The evaluation process includes a preliminary staff review followed by evaluation from a grant review committee consisting of Vermont Humanities Board members. Review criteria include alignment with the organization’s mission, community engagement, collaboration, inclusivity, accessibility, evaluation planning, and focus on underserved populations or communities. Awardees are required to sign a grant agreement, share event information for public programming, and submit a final report within 90 days of project completion.

Special encouragement is given to proposals that explore themes related to the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026. Vermont Humanities is a part of the Governor’s Commission on America 250 and welcomes project proposals that critically engage with the complexity of the American story. Interested applicants can learn more at the Vermont 250th anniversary website.

To begin the application process or request additional information, applicants can contact Rachel Franzoni by email at rfranzoni@vermonthumanities.org or by phone at (802) 262-1355. The Vermont Humanities main office is located at 11 Loomis Street, Montpelier, VT 05602.