Vermont R&D Grants Explorer
A guide to competitive and technology-focused grants for Vermont businesses.
A Note on Grant Types
Nearly all research and development (R&D) funding is competitive, meaning applicants are scored against each other. This guide focuses on those competitive opportunities, as "entitlement" grants (automatic funding for all who qualify) are not a common mechanism for R&D business support.
These are the largest sources of early-stage, non-dilutive (equity-free) R&D funding. Vermont offers key programs to help you apply for and supplement these federal awards.
SBIR / STTR Programs
Federal ProgramThe Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs are the federal government's primary way to fund R&D at small businesses.
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Funding:
- Phase I (Proof of Concept): $50,000 - $275,000
- Phase II (Development): $750,000 - $1.8M+
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Eligible Use:
High-risk, high-reward research and development of new technologies. STTR requires partnership with a research institution (like UVM).
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Who is Eligible:
U.S.-based, for-profit small businesses (fewer than 500 employees).
Vermont EPSCoR Phase (0)
State SupportThis state-level grant is designed to help you prepare a stronger application for the federal SBIR/STTR programs.
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Funding:
Up to $15,000
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Eligible Use:
Support for writing and preparing a competitive federal SBIR/STTR Phase I application. Also provides reviewer comments.
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Who is Eligible:
Vermont-based small businesses intending to apply for a federal SBIR/STTR grant.
Elevate Vermont
State SupportProvides matching funds to businesses that have *already won* a federal SBIR/STTR award to help move from research to market.
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Funding:
Provides matching funds (amount varies).
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Eligible Use:
Commercialization activities not covered by the federal grant, such as marketing, product testing, IP protection, and scaling.
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Who is Eligible:
Vermont businesses that have secured a federal SBIR/STTR award.
These competitive grants are funded and managed by Vermont state agencies or their partners to boost innovation within specific sectors.
WLEI Business Enhancement Grant
State ProgramThe Working Lands Enterprise Initiative (WLEI) funds projects to grow Vermont's farm and forest economy.
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Funding:
$10,000 - $50,000
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Eligible R&D Use:
Research and development, including testing new systems/technology, and purchasing new animal genetics, seed, or root stock.
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Who is Eligible:
Vermont-based farm, food, and forest product businesses.
ACCD Tech-Based Economic Development
State ProgramA state program aimed at accelerating growth in Vermont's technology sector. (Program details and funding cycles may vary).
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Funding:
Varies by initiative.
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Eligible Use:
Often focused on scaling tech businesses, commercialization, and workforce development in the tech sector.
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Who is Eligible:
Vermont-based technology companies.
Vermont EPSCoR Pilot Awards
State ProgramFunds collaborative research projects between Vermont higher education institutions and small businesses.
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Funding:
Varies (typically seed funding).
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Eligible Use:
Collaborative research projects that align with Vermont EPSCoR's current research focus (e.g., environmental resilience, advanced manufacturing).
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Who is Eligible:
Partnerships between VT small businesses and faculty at VT higher-ed institutions.
While not always direct R&D grants, these programs provide funding or services for business and technology improvements, which can support your innovation goals.
RDC SBTAE Grant
Technical AssistanceThe Small Business Technical Assistance Exchange (SBTAE) from the Regional Development Corporations (RDCs) of Vermont funds consulting services.
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Funding:
Up to $4,000 for projects under $10,000.
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Eligible Tech Use:
Technology and software consulting, reconfiguring manufacturing processes, website/e-commerce design.
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Who is Eligible:
Vermont small businesses (under 50 employees, revenues $5k - $5M).
VEDA Financing (Loans)
Business LoanThe Vermont Economic Development Authority (VEDA) provides low-interest loans, not grants, but is a key partner for business growth and capital projects.
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Funding:
Various loan programs, up to $500,000+ for small businesses.
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Eligible Use:
Working capital, equipment purchase, real estate. Can be used to finance the business side of R&D commercialization.
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Who is Eligible:
Start-ups and expanding Vermont businesses in many sectors, including IT and manufacturing.
