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Purpose: The National Grassroots Grant Program supports non-profit organizations across the country and in Vermont aligned with the Foundation’s broad interests in social justice, environmental protection and sustainable food systems. We fund grassroots, constituent-led organizations that are using community-organizing strategies to accomplish their goals and organizations that provide technical support and/or resources to such groups. Although we appreciate the value of direct service programs in meeting individual and family needs, we do not fund such programs.

Process: The process starts with the Letter of Interest (LOI). LOIs are considered on a rolling basis and are reviewed within 30 days of submition. We generally fund organizations with budgets of $500,000 or less. Grant awards are up to $15,000 for a one-year period. Full Grant reviews occur nine times a year by the Employee Advisory Committee. There is no deadline for applying.

*If you have received a National Grassroots grant from us within the past three years and are reapplying, note the abbreviated process for renewal grant applications.

Purpose: The Movement Building Grant Program encourages national progressive movement-building efforts by identifying organizations and coalitions that can significantly advance the Foundation’s broad social justice, environmental protection and sustainable food systems goals. We are currently exploring strategic efforts addressing migrant issues globally and nationally. These grants are intended to support organizations that are working across sectors and whose work provides approaches, knowledge and models that others can use in advancing progressive social change work. We look for organizations with a track record of success and the leadership and multiple allies to accomplish its goals. Eligible organizations will have demonstrated accomplishments and a strategic plan that position them to play a significant role in motivating and activating others.

Process: Proposals are considered by invitation only.  Unlike the National Grassroots Grant Program, larger organizations as well as small, grassroots organizations may be considered for these grants.  The grants are in the $25,000-$50,000 range and can involve a two year commitment.

We do not accept unsolicited grant proposals for this program. 

Purpose: The National Small Grant Program allows the Ben & Jerry's Foundation to support projects or events that resonate with our broad interests in social justice, environmental protection and sustainable food systems, and are celebratory in nature or infused with a spirit of hopefulness and optimism. These are one-time grants and may be made throughout the year.  Small grants are for $1,000 or less. We have a limited pool of funds for this program.  As with all of our national grant programs, these grants are not used to support direct services to individuals.

This program has reached its capacity for 2010 and we are not currently accepting applications.

Purpose: The Vermont Capacity Building Grant Program assists Vermont statewide organizations aligned with the Foundation’s broad interests in social justice, environmental protection and sustainable food systems, achieve greater organizational strength and sustainability.

Process: The Employee Advisory Committee awards this multi-year grant of up to $25,000 per year in November. Filing deadline is April 30. The highly competitive process includes a comprehensive review, a series of discussions and a site visit.

Purpose: The Vermont Community Action Teams, comprised of non-management employees at each of Ben & Jerry’s three Vermont sites are at the heart of involving Ben & Jerry’s employees in philanthropy. On a monthly basis, these teams award small grants, mostly in the $500 to $1000 range to local Vermont organizations providing community services, activities and events. The CATs also plan and complete significant community service projects.    

The Foundation supports employee generosity by matching donations, dollar for dollar, up to $2000 annually.