Grant Programs
The Vermont Bar Foundation offers grants to organizations that help low-income Vermonters gain access to the justice system and provide public education relating to the law.
The Foundation’s funds come primarily from its Interest on Lawyers Trust Accounts (IOLTA) Program, a successful partnership between Vermont lawyers and the banking and credit union communities. The Foundation disburses funds through two grant programs.
IOLTA Grants Program
This grant program is by invite-only, so the VBF does not accept unsolicited applications for the IOLTA Grants Program.
Historically, the funds from this program have been awarded to Vermont Legal Aid, Have Justice Will Travel, Vermont Bar Association’s Legal Access Coordinator, and Vermont Law & Graduate School’s Legal Clinics.
The Hon. John A. Dooley Competitive Grants Program
The Dooley Competitive Grants Program is comprised of grantees chosen through an annual application process. The organizations chosen for this grants program provide direct legal services to low-income Vermont residents and educate Vermonters about the law.
2025-2026 John A. Dooley Competitive Grants Program
The Board of Directors of the Vermont Bar Foundation will be accepting grant applications from Vermont not-for-profit entities. Interested applicants must complete a Letter of Intent that is due no later than February 10, 2025 by 5 PM EST.
Important Information and Dates:
- Letter of Intent: Interested applicants should submit a letter of intent by February 10, 2025 by 5 PM EST
- New Applicant Virtual Meeting: This virtual meeting is required for new applicants, optional for current FY 2025-2026 grant recipients; meeting scheduled for February 12, 2025 from 12 – 1 pm EST
- Application Deadline: Completed applications are due no later than 5 PM EST on March 8, 2025.
Please use the contact information below if you have any questions.
Vermont Bar Foundation
35-37 Court St
PO Box 1170
Montpelier, VT 05601-1170
(802) 223-1400
