Vermont’s rural communities are rich with local leadership, vision, and determination. Yet many small towns face growing challenges, limited staff capacity, and increasing uncertainty as they work to advance important community priorities.
The Rural Technical Assistance Program brings together state, regional, and local partners to help communities move projects from vision to reality. Through coordinated navigation support, flexible funding, and access to technical expertise, the program provides the additional capacity small towns need to tackle challenges, pursue opportunities, and build a stronger future.
Working through an established network of technical assistance providers, including VCRD, Regional Planning Commissions, Regional Development Corporations, the Vermont League of Cities and Towns, the Rural Economic Development Initiative, and others, the program offers:
Flexible Community Funding
Meaningful, flexible grants that help communities advance locally identified community and economic development projects.
Technical Assistance & Navigation Support
Hands-on guidance that connects towns with the right resources, expertise, and partners. Technical assistance providers and consultants coordinate services to help communities navigate complex projects and make steady progress toward their goals.
Learning & Continuous Improvement
Ongoing evaluation and shared learning to strengthen the program, improve statewide technical assistance delivery, and advance recommendations identified through Vermont’s rural development efforts.
By aligning local priorities with state goals and providing coordinated support, the Rural Technical Assistance Program helps communities build momentum, realize transformational projects, and strengthen their long-term vitality and prosperity.