Deadline: 22-Jan-21
The Better Places pilot program has been launched to provide “placemaking” grants ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 that improve the vitality of state designated downtowns, village centers, new town centers, or neighborhood development areas.
The program relies on the expertise and generous support of the Better Places Partners that include AARP Vermont, Local Motion, Vermont Department of Health, Vermont Agency of Transportation, and Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food, and Markets.
The program is funded and supported by the Vermont Community Foundation, Vermont Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), Vermont Arts Council, National Life Group Foundation, and the Preservation Trust of Vermont.
The Better Places partnership is a place-based economic development program that:
- Revitalizes and improves public spaces in support of local economic and community development efforts;
- Empowers residents to play an active role in shaping their communities, building social capital, and local pride;
- Supports local COVID-19 response and recovery efforts;
- Advances “quick build” projects that boost confidence, builds partnerships and sparks momentum;
- Improves public health, reduces social isolation, and increases physical activity;
- Stimulates the creative economy and supports public art projects.
Eligible Applicants
- Municipalities, local community groups, and nonprofit entities with documented municipal support may apply. Municipalities must partner with community groups and have a plan to involve the broader public. Nonprofits and community-based organizations must have permission from the property owners (city/town or private owner) where the project is proposed.
- Nonprofits must be registered with the Vermont Secretary of State. Community groups may use a fiscal sponsor and must abide by Vermont Community Foundation’s fiscal sponsor agreement.
For more information, visit https://accd.vermont.gov/community-development/funding-incentives/better-places