University of Vermont - Request for Proposals Fall 2026 Application Cycle - Leahy Institute for Rural Partnerships
University Of VermontHigher Ed · Burlington, VT- Due
- Oct 13, 2026
- Deadline passed
- Posted
- May 4, 2026
- Contract term
- 1 year
- Primary contact
- Daria Jarani
The 30-second brief
The University of Vermont, Leahy Institute for Rural Partnerships invites grant proposals for partnership projects focused on rural challenges in Vermont. Priority focus areas include regenerative agriculture, community schools, transit and housing solutions, remote and co-working practices, resilient energy systems, healthy ecosystems, access to health care, and policy and governance. Awards are available at two levels: Capacity Grants up to $20,000 and Partnership Grants up to $250,000. The submission process requires an initial Letter of Intent due August 10, 2026, followed by a full proposal deadline of October 13, 2026. The contract period of performance runs from January 1, 2027 through December 31, 2027. Submissions are processed via the InfoReady platform.
Engage in a partnership with the University of Vermont and its students, faculty, and resources, Alignment with Leahy Institute for Rural Partnership themes, Show a deep understanding of what is challenging Vermont's rural communities and economies and propose impactful solutions, Consider perspectives of underserved rural communities in project outcomes and evaluation, Demonstrate feasibility and scalability in project design
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Summary
The University of Vermont, Leahy Institute for Rural Partnerships invites grant proposals for partnership projects focused on rural challenges in Vermont.
Priority focus areas include regenerative agriculture, community schools, transit and housing solutions, remote and co-working practices, resilient energy systems, healthy ecosystems, access to health care, and policy and governance. Awards are available at two levels: Capacity Grants up to $20,000 and Partnership Grants up to $250,000. The submission process requires an initial Letter of Intent due August 10, 2026, followed by a full proposal deadline of October 13, 2026. The contract period of performance runs from January 1, 2027 through December 31, 2027. Submissions are processed via the InfoReady platform.
EVALUATION CRITERIA
Engage in a partnership with the University of Vermont and its students, faculty, and resources, Alignment with Leahy Institute for Rural Partnership themes, Show a deep understanding of what is challenging Vermont's rural communities and economies and propose impactful solutions, Consider perspectives of underserved rural communities in project outcomes and evaluation, Demonstrate feasibility and scalability in project design
REQUIRED ATTACHMENTS
3- Estimated Project Budget
- Budget Justification
- Partner Letter of Support
- Submit to
- https://submit.uvm.edu/#freeformCompetitionDetail/2012475
- Duration
- 12 months
- Scope location
- Vermont, VT
- Reported agency
- University of Vermont
Questions about this RFP
How do I respond to this RFP from University Of Vermont?
Review the full solicitation document for submission requirements, evaluation criteria, and deadlines. The submission deadline is October 13, 2026. Be sure to include all required attachments as outlined in the solicitation. Submissions should be delivered to: https://submit.uvm.edu/#freeformCompetitionDetail/2012475. For questions, contact Daria Jarani.
Can small businesses or minority-owned firms bid on this RFP?
Most government agencies, including University Of Vermont in VT, encourage participation from small businesses, minority-owned, women-owned, and disadvantaged business enterprises (MBE/WBE/DBE). Check the full solicitation for any small business participation goals.
What happens after the RFP submission deadline?
After the deadline, the issuing agency reviews all submissions against the stated evaluation criteria. This typically includes a compliance check, technical evaluation, cost analysis, and may involve oral presentations with shortlisted vendors.
Can I ask questions about this solicitation before submitting?
Yes, most solicitations allow vendors to submit questions during a designated period. The primary contact is Daria Jarani. Questions and answers are typically shared with all prospective bidders.
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What are the evaluation criteria for this solicitation?
This solicitation includes specific evaluation criteria that will be used to score proposals. The criteria include: "Engage in a partnership with the University of Vermont and its students, faculty, and resources, Alignment with Leahy Institute for Rural Partnership themes, Show a deep understanding of what is chall..." Vendors should carefully align their proposals with each criterion to maximize their score.
Where can I find more RFPs from University Of Vermont?
All active and historical solicitations from University Of Vermont are tracked and searchable. As a higher ed agency, University Of Vermont regularly publishes solicitations. Visit the agency profile to see current open bids, past contracts, vendor relationships, and decision-maker contacts.
What is the contract term for this solicitation?
The anticipated contract term is 1 year. Contract terms may include renewal options.
What documents are required to bid on this RFP?
Requirements vary by solicitation, but common documents include a technical proposal, cost/price proposal, proof of insurance, relevant certifications, past performance references, and any forms specified in the solicitation. This solicitation specifically requires the following attachments: Estimated Project Budget, Budget Justification, Partner Letter of Support. Review the full document from University Of Vermont for the complete list.
What is the scope of this project?
This solicitation defines a specific project scope. The scope covers the following locations: Vermont, VT. Review the full solicitation for detailed scope requirements.