Vermont Business Magazine The Vermont Historical Society and Vermont Covered have announced the Vermont 250th Community Planning Grants program as part of work in support of the Vermont 250th Anniversary Commission. The grants are available to select communities (listed here) in areas of limited broadband and wireless connectivity around the state to help support activities in planning and preparation for the US Semiquincentennial (250th) in 2026.
The Vermont 250th Anniversary Commission (VT250th), tasked by Governor Phil Scott, is working to create opportunities for Vermonters to mark this anniversary. The 250th offers an occasion to not only learn more about the individuals and events that played a role in the country’s founding, but also to reflect on what independence, freedom, and self-determination mean today and in the future. Vermont’s motto “Freedom and Unity” reflects not only the spirit of the Green Mountain State, but the founding ethos of the United States itself.
The VT250th is working diligently to be economically, culturally, and racially inclusive in the planning and implementation of the anniversary. Inclusion requires access. In 2023 broadband and wireless connectivity is essential for public safety, rural equity, education, job opportunities, economic development, health care, and agriculture. All Vermonters should have the connection to participate fully and have the opportunities offered in our increasingly digital world. Vermont Covered works with communities throughout Vermont to advocate for and create access to this revolutionary technology.
This grant program is intended to help communities plan and prepare for the 250th at the local level. Grants are $1,000 and will be given to support a range of activities that help to define and move forward programs, events, and resources for 2025-2027. The grant program is administered by the Vermont Historical Society with support from Vermont Covered.
VHS Executive Director Steve Perkins says, “Vermont Historical Society is thrilled to work with Vermont Covered to provide grant support to communities as they plan events commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.”
Detail on the grant program and application process can be found at https://vermonthistory.org/250th-grants
About Vermont Covered
Vermont Covered’s mission is to help Vermonters achieve cost effective mobile and fixed wireless broadband in order to bridge the gap between rural internet availability and internet affordability. Learn more at https://vtcovered.org/
About the Vermont Historical Society
Founded in 1838, the Vermont Historical Society serves to engage both Vermonters and “Vermonters at heart” in the exploration of our state's rich heritage. Our purpose is to reach a broad audience through our outstanding collections, statewide outreach, and dynamic programming. We believe that an understanding of the past changes lives and builds better communities.
About the Vermont 250th Anniversary Commission
The year 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the formation of the United States of America. To observe these events, Vermont is joining others to encourage remembrance of our past, celebrate the present and look forward to a promising future. Vermont's 250th Anniversary Commission will inspire all Vermonters to learn from the history, legacy, and context of the past to build strong Vermont communities for the future.
Through collaborative local and statewide initiatives that explore an inclusive history of the American Revolution, Vermont 250 will support and encourage the preparation, planning, and execution of programs and events that examine a formative period of our nation and how it continues to shape our culture and values.