UVM’s Leahy Institute funds research partnerships between university and community organizations to address key rural challenges in Vermont, supporting projects in health, environment, economy, and more.
Funder: University of Vermont
Due Dates (Anticipated): September 2026 (initial application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Capacity Grants: $20,000 | Partnership Grants: up to $250,000 | Total pool approx. $2M; one-year projects
Summary: Supports university-community partnerships to address Vermont’s urgent rural challenges through collaborative, innovative projects.
Key Information: Program targets rural Vermont; projects must involve both UVM and community partners.
This grant program, offered by the Leahy Institute for Rural Partnerships at the University of Vermont, is designed to launch or expand university-community partnerships that tackle Vermont’s most pressing rural challenges. The initiative funds collaborative projects between academic researchers and community organizations, aiming to drive impactful change and strengthen rural communities across the state. Focus areas include, but are not limited to, healthcare, environmental resilience, economic development, agriculture, education, housing, transportation, energy, and social services. Grants are intended to foster applied research, technical assistance, and innovative solutions that address critical needs in Vermont's rural regions.