We envision a future in which all Vermont communities have an opportunity to thrive, and we believe that strong UVM-Community partnerships can play a vital role in achieving that future.

Our Work Takes Several Forms

Partners in Maple

Grants

Grants to fund partnership-driven solutions to address the needs of our rural communities
Drone

Engagement Initiatives

Partnerships with UVM that provide direct and ongoing service to Vermont communities
President Tromp

Convenings

Gathering people together to build connections and share knowledge
Mark

Two-Year Report

Reflecting on two years of research, partnerships, and progress in strengthening Vermont’s rural communities.

Read the Report

Headlines from the Institute

Green Mountain Job Retention Program Enters Third Year Awarding Graduates for Staying in Vermont

Every Day Counts: Using Research to Reduce Chronic Absenteeism in Vermont Schools

UVM Launches Rural Development Speaker Series to Support Stronger Communities

Supporting Vermont’s Sweetest Industry: New Maple Syrup Quality Testing Lab Opens to Serve Vermont Producers

UVM Students Explore the Future of Coworking in Vermont

 More Rural Partnerships News

Leahy Institute in the News

Read the headlines here
Student intern at work in lab.

Who we are.

With funding from USDA, we support partnership activities in rural areas that move the needle on key challenges in health care access, transit and communication, regenerative agriculture, community schools, and resilient energy.
Group thinking exercise.

How we work.

Our team works across the state to develop partnerships with Vermont organizations. UVM can provide technical support, access to research and faculty expertise, internships and service learning projects, seed grant awards, and access to UVM’s startup and engagement programs to partners.
Three people posing for camera at a flower farm.

Our impact.

The Institute will identify quantifiable progress with our partners’ solution-oriented ideas each month to ensure that we make a positive impact on our state’s agriculture, education, transportation, housing, healthcare, communications systems work, natural resources, and policies and governance sec