Business Grants and Resources for Single Mothers in Vermont
Business Startup, Small Business & Entrepreneurship Assistance and Grants for Single Mothers in Vermont
Last updated: September 2025
Emergency help first
- If you need urgent help today: Call 2‑1‑1 (United Way’s Vermont 2‑1‑1 helpline) for 24/7 referrals to emergency cash aid, food, housing, child care, and legal help. You can also text your ZIP code to 898211 Mon–Fri, 8:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m., or email info@vermont211.org during those hours. (women.vermont.gov)
- If losing work and exploring self‑employment: Ask the Vermont Department of Labor about the Self‑Employment Assistance (SEA) Program. If you’re eligible for unemployment insurance and likely to exhaust benefits, SEA can pay a weekly allowance equal to your normal UI while you work full‑time on launching your business. Call UI Claims at 1‑877‑214‑3332 or 1‑877‑214‑3330 to discuss eligibility and next steps. SEA participation is capped (up to 35 people at a time), so ask early. (labor.vermont.gov, legislature.vermont.gov, law.cornell.edu)
Quick help box
- Talk to a no‑cost business advisor now: Vermont Small Business Development Center (VtSBDC) at (802) 728‑9101 or (800) 464‑SBDC. They offer free, confidential one‑to‑one advising statewide. Start with their intake and request your county advisor. (vtsbdc.org)
- Women‑focused coaching and classes: Center for Women & Enterprise – Vermont Women’s Business Center (CWE VT) at (802) 391‑4870 or Info.Vermont@CWEonline.org. Scholarships often available. (cweonline.org)
- Income‑eligible microbusiness coaching: Vermont’s Micro Business Development Program (MBDP) through your local Community Action Agency. Eligibility generally at or below 80% of area/state median income; you’re automatically eligible if you qualify for 3SquaresVT, EITC, SSI, or Section 8. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- Capital options to explore first: SBA Microloans (up to 50,000∗∗vialocalnonprofits),VEDASmallBusinessLoans(upto∗∗50,000** via local nonprofits), VEDA Small Business Loans (up to **1,000,000), and Vermont Community Loan Fund small‑business loans (typically up to $350,000). See details below. (sba.gov, veda.org, investinvermont.org)
- Child care so you can work: Vermont’s Child Care Financial Assistance Program (CCFAP) covers child care costs for many families—income eligibility expanded up to 575% FPL in October 2024 and updated with 2025 FPL in March 2025. Apply online or via your local agency. (dcf.vermont.gov)
Quick reference cheat sheet (Vermont‑specific)
| Program | Who it helps | Key amounts | How to apply | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VtSBDC one‑to‑one advising | Any Vermont small business | No cost | Request advising and get matched to a county advisor | (802) 728‑9101 / (800) 464‑SBDC; VtSBDC Contact page (vtsbdc.org) |
| CWE Vermont Women’s Business Center | Women and gender‑expansive entrepreneurs | No cost/low‑cost classes; scholarships | Sign up online or call | (802) 391‑4870; CWE Vermont page (cweonline.org) |
| Micro Business Development Program (MBDP) | Income‑eligible Vermonters | Free coaching, workshops | Contact your Community Action Agency | DCF MBDP (dcf.vermont.gov) |
| SBA Microloan (local lenders) | Startups/very small firms | Up to $50,000; typical rate 8%–13% | Apply via SBA‑approved microlender | SBA Microloans (sba.gov) |
| VEDA Small Business Loan | Growing small businesses without conventional credit | Up to $1,000,000; up to 40%–50% of project | Apply with VEDA | (802) 828‑5627; VEDA Small Business Loan (veda.org) |
| Vermont Community Loan Fund (VCLF) | Startups/mission‑fit small firms | Up to $350,000; average rate around 8.25% | Pre‑application conversation encouraged | (802) 223‑1448; VCLF Business Programs (investinvermont.org) |
| Community Capital of Vermont | Flexible micro/small loans | 1,000–1,000–100,000; typical rates 8%–10.5% | Apply online after consult | (802) 479‑0167; CCVT FAQ (communitycapitalvt.org) |
| CCFAP child care assistance | Working/training parents | Eligibility up to 575% FPL (as of Oct 2024); updated 2025 guidelines | Apply via CDDIS portal or local agency | CCFAP updates (dcf.vermont.gov) |
Start here: set up your Vermont business the right way
- Register your business entity online: Vermont Secretary of State’s Online Business Service Center. LLC filing requires Articles of Organization. Note a discrepancy: the SOS Fee page shows 125∗∗forLLCArticlesand∗∗125** for LLC Articles and **35 for the annual report; the statute‑based SOS fee table shows 155∗∗and∗∗155** and **45 respectively. The online system will display your current fee before checkout. If unsure, call the Business Services Division before paying. (sos.vermont.gov)
- If you’re using a “doing business as” name: File an Assumed Business Name (DBA). Registration fee is $70, with renewal every five years. (sos.vermont.gov)
- Get your tax accounts set up: Register for a Vermont Business Tax Account on myVTax (free). You’ll need this for Sales & Use, Meals & Rooms, and employer withholding. Meals & Rooms Tax license is free. (tax.vermont.gov)
- Hiring employees: Register with Vermont Department of Labor as an employer; ensure Workers’ Compensation coverage if you have employees. Start via the SOS Step‑by‑Step page, which links to the IRS, VT DOL, and VT Taxes. (sos.vermont.gov)
- Know local taxes: Many towns add a 1% Local Option Tax for meals/rooms/alcohol. Burlington and Rutland City administer their own local taxes—call Burlington (802) 865‑7000 or Rutland (802) 773‑1800 for details. (tax.vermont.gov)
- Reality check: Opening an LLC online typically completes in under one business day, but banking, insurance, and local permits can add 2–4 weeks. Budget start‑up filing costs (LLC or DBA), insurance down payments, and first month of child care/transportation. If funds are tight, see capital options below.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Use a sole proprietorship + DBA to start lean (still register your DBA), get liability insurance, and move to an LLC once cash flow supports the fee. Book a free session with VtSBDC to review entity/tax choices for your specific situation. (vtsbdc.org)
Where Vermont single mothers actually get capital
SBA‑backed microloans (local nonprofits)
What it is: SBA’s Microloan Program provides up to $50,000 per loan for working capital, inventory, equipment, and more. Typical rates range 8%–13% and terms up to seven years. In Vermont, approved intermediaries include Community Capital of Vermont and Vermont Community Loan Fund. (sba.gov)
Why single moms use it: More flexible underwriting than banks, plus required business coaching.
Apply here: Start by contacting a local SBA‑approved microlender and prepare a plan and 12–24‑month cash flow.
- Community Capital of Vermont: Loans 1,000–1,000–100,000, typical rates 8%–10.5%, start‑ups welcome. (802) 479‑0167. (communitycapitalvt.org)
- Vermont Community Loan Fund: Business loans up to 350,000∗∗(avgrate ∗∗8.25350,000** (avg rate ~**8.25%**); specialized Early Childhood Education loans up to **350,000 (as low as 7.5%) for child care businesses—a strong fit if you’re starting a home or center‑based program. (802) 223‑1448. (investinvermont.org)
Timelines: From complete application to funding, expect roughly 3–8 weeks, depending on collateral, projections, and documentation.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a smaller starter loan (for example 2,500–2,500–10,000), work with MBDP to strengthen your plan, and re‑apply. Or ask VtSBDC to warm‑introduce you to a community bank loan officer for a credit‑builder secured card or line of credit. (dcf.vermont.gov, vtsbdc.org)
VEDA loans (state economic development financing)
What it is: The Vermont Economic Development Authority offers several loan programs for businesses unable to access adequate conventional credit.
- Small Business Loan Program: Up to $1,000,000; typically up to 40% of fixed‑asset projects or 50% for working capital; borrower equity usually ≥10%. (veda.org)
- Entrepreneurial Loan Program: Designed for seed/start‑up/early‑growth firms; max loan 350,000∗∗,andtotaloutstandingunderthisprogramcappedat∗∗350,000**, and total outstanding under this program capped at **500,000 per borrower. Requires staying in Vermont at least five years post‑funding. (veda.org)
- Rates & fees: VEDA publishes current rate structure (variable and fixed options with subsidies in early years) and typical commitment fees (generally 1% up to $1,000,000). Call (802) 828‑5627 for current rates. (veda.org)
Timelines: Allow 4–10 weeks from application to closing, particularly if your project involves real estate or multiple financing partners.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about pairing a smaller VEDA share with an SBA microloan, or using VEDA’s programs later as you add employees. VtSBDC advisors can help structure blended financing. (vtsbdc.org)
Training grants when you hire (Vermont Training Program)
What it is: The Vermont Training Program (VTP) reimburses up to 50% of approved training costs for pre‑employment training (with guaranteed hire), new‑hire training, and incumbent worker upskilling. Grants are performance‑based and paid after training completes. Turnaround is typically about 18 business days from a complete application and review. (accd.vermont.gov)
Why it matters: If your business is adding staff, VTP can cut training costs in half—critical cash savings in your first growth phase.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Connect with your Regional Development Corporation (RDC) to discuss other workforce or site‑readiness programs; they can also help you plan for the next VTP cycle. (accd.vermont.gov)
“Are there grants for individuals to start a business?”
Reality check: Vermont doesn’t generally offer start‑up grants to individual, for‑profit businesses. Most state/federal “grants” fund nonprofits or municipalities (for example, CDBG/Northern Border) or reimburse training (VTP). The Vermont Community Foundation’s Women’s Fund provides grants to nonprofits—not to individual businesses. If you see ads promising “free money to start a business,” be careful. (accd.vermont.gov, vermontwomensfund.org)
What to do instead: Use microloans to prove your model; look at targeted opportunities if you’re launching a child care program (VCLF ECE loans) or ag/forestry enterprise (consider VEDA/VACC). Connect with CWE VT and VtSBDC to identify pitch competitions or local small grants when available. (investinvermont.org, veda.org)
Free, statewide coaching built for tight budgets
Micro Business Development Program (MBDP)
Who qualifies: Vermont residents 18+ with household income at or below 80% of State or Area Median Income (whichever is higher). If you’re eligible for 3SquaresVT, EITC, SSI, or Section 8, you automatically qualify. (dcf.vermont.gov)
What you get: One‑on‑one counseling, help with business plans, cash‑flow projections, marketing, and loan packaging; classes and workshops; technology resource access. Services are delivered by local Community Action Agencies statewide. (dcf.vermont.gov)
Find your MBDP office (by region):
- BROC Community Action (Rutland & Bennington): (802) 775‑0878 / (800) 717‑2762. (vermontcap.org, search.vermont211.org)
- SEVCA (Windham & Windsor): (802) 722‑4575 / (800) 464‑9951. (sevca.org)
- CVOEO (Addison, Chittenden, Franklin, Grand Isle): (802) 860‑1417 (ext. 116 or 120). (cvoeosecure.org)
- Capstone Community Action (Washington, Orange, Lamoille): Program info and workshops; contact numbers published on Capstone’s site (for example, Barre office (802) 479‑1053; see site for current microbusiness contacts). (capstonevt.org)
- NEKCA (Caledonia, Essex, Orleans): Contact NEKCA offices (e.g., St. Johnsbury (802) 748‑6048; Newport (802) 334‑7316). (women.vermont.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your county office is at capacity, ask for cross‑county virtual coaching or join VtSBDC/CWE workshops while you wait for a one‑on‑one slot. (vtsbdc.org, cweonline.org)
Women‑focused and statewide small‑business teams
- CWE Vermont Women’s Business Center: One‑to‑one counseling, classes, networking, and Women‑Owned Small Business (WOSB) certification guidance. (802) 391‑4870. (cweonline.org)
- VtSBDC: Free confidential advising statewide; choose your county advisor. (802) 728‑9101 / (800) 464‑SBDC. (vtsbdc.org)
- SBA Vermont District Office: Funding programs, certifications, and events. (802) 828‑4422; 400 Cornerstone Dr., Suite 240, Williston, VT 05495. (sba.gov)
- Vermont APEX Accelerator (government contracting help, formerly PTAC): Free counseling, bid‑match, registrations (SAM.gov), and certifications support (WOSB, VOSB/SDVOSB, HUBZone, DBE referrals). Director (802) 522‑9135; general (802) 828‑5237. (accd.vermont.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask SBA VT to introduce you to a SCORE mentor or consider sector‑specific groups (e.g., VMEC for manufacturing) via your RDC. (accd.vermont.gov)
Vermont procurement and certifications you should know
- Sell to the State: The Office of Purchasing & Contracting (OPC) posts bid opportunities and manages statewide contracts. A new eProcurement system, VTBuys, centralizes supplier registration and bids. Start by reviewing bid postings and supplier guidance. (bgs.vermont.gov)
- Women‑Owned (WOSB/EDWOSB): Use SBA’s MySBA Certifications. Certification questions: 1‑866‑443‑4110 or certifications@sba.gov. (sba.gov)
- Transportation contracting (DBE): For highway/airport projects, Vermont Agency of Transportation’s DBE program certifies and assists disadvantaged businesses (including women‑owned) for federally funded transportation contracts. See contact info via the Vermont Commission on Women’s Business & Entrepreneurship resource page. (women.vermont.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Book time with the APEX Accelerator; they’ll walk you through registrations, set bid‑match alerts, and help polish your capability statement at no cost. (accd.vermont.gov)
Child care and family supports that make business possible
- Child Care Financial Assistance Program (CCFAP): As of October 6, 2024, income eligibility increased to 575% FPL; guidelines were updated again in March 2025 for the new FPL numbers. Families under certain thresholds have a $0 weekly family share. Apply online via the CDDIS Parent Portal or through your local Community Child Care Support Agency. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- If you run a child care business: Licensing is a three‑phase process (entity setup, site/business plan review, and final compliance visit). Call the Licensor on Duty at 1‑800‑649‑2642 (option 3) with questions. Participation in the quality system (STARS) influences rates/incentives; a revision and acclimation period runs through June 30, 2025. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- Financing for child care programs: VCLF’s Early Childhood Education Loan Program offers loans up to $350,000, with rates as low as 7.5%, and free business coaching. (investinvermont.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask VtSBDC for a child‑care‑specific business model review; they’ve supported many providers. Pair VCLF financing with local town ARPA funds (if available) or landlord improvements to reduce your upfront costs. (vtsbdc.org)
Vermont costs and filings at a glance
| Item | What to know | Current amounts |
|---|---|---|
| LLC Articles of Organization | File online with VT SOS | SOS Fee page shows 125∗∗;statute‑basedfeetableshows∗∗125**; statute‑based fee table shows **155. Verify in the portal at checkout. (sos.vermont.gov) |
| LLC Annual Report | Due within 3 months of fiscal year end | SOS Fee page shows 35∗∗;statute‑basedfeetableshows∗∗35**; statute‑based fee table shows **45. Verify in the portal. (sos.vermont.gov) |
| Assumed Business Name (DBA) | Required if operating under a name other than your legal name; renewal every 5 years | Registration 70∗∗;re‑registration∗∗70**; re‑registration **65; other filings as listed. (sos.vermont.gov) |
| Meals & Rooms Tax license | If selling meals/renting rooms | License is $0; file via myVTax. (tax.vermont.gov) |
| Business tax registration | Sales & Use, Meals & Rooms, Withholding, etc. | Register free on myVTax; support at (802) 828‑2551. (tax.vermont.gov) |
If you’re starting on unemployment: Vermont’s Self‑Employment Assistance (SEA)
How it works: If you’re identified as likely to exhaust regular benefits, the SEA program can authorize you to spend full time on building your business while receiving a weekly allowance equal to your UI benefit (subject to all program rules). Enrollment is limited to 35 participants at a time. Contact the VT Department of Labor UI lines to ask for an SEA orientation. (legislature.vermont.gov, law.cornell.edu, labor.vermont.gov)
Common realities: You must actively work full‑time on your plan, file weekly claims, and meet any milestones set by the Department.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Request referrals to VtSBDC/MBDP/CWE and ask about workforce programs you can use while you build the business part‑time. (vtsbdc.org, dcf.vermont.gov, cweonline.org)
Government contracting and selling locally
- State of Vermont contracting: Watch postings and register as a supplier in VTBuys (new eProcurement). OPC bid pages list current solicitations and bid tabulations. (bgs.vermont.gov)
- Local option taxes for hospitality: If you operate in a municipality with a 1% local option tax, ensure your POS and myVTax filings collect/remit accurately. Burlington and Rutland City administer their own. Burlington: (802) 865‑7000. Rutland: (802) 773‑1800. (tax.vermont.gov)
- APEX Accelerator: Book no‑cost help on SAM.gov, certifications, and bid‑match alerts tailored to your NAICS codes. See the statewide counselor list for phone numbers by county. (accd.vermont.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your RDC to broker introductions to facility managers and buyers in your region; consider municipal and school bids to gain a track record. (accd.vermont.gov)
Income limits and examples for planning
- Planning child care budgets: In the Burlington‑South Burlington metro, FY2025 HUD 80% AMI for a family of 3 is 93,500∗∗,for4is∗∗93,500**, for 4 is **103,850. That helps you understand local affordability, rents, and CDBG eligibility if you’re doing place‑based projects. (burlingtonvt.gov)
- Why this matters: MBDP eligibility is tied to 80% of State or Area Median Income; if your county’s 80% AMI is higher than state median, you may still qualify for free microbusiness coaching. (dcf.vermont.gov)
Real‑world examples
- Child care expansion financed: VCLF’s Early Childhood Education Loan Program helped Little Dippers Doodle Children’s Center in Lyndonville expand to serve up to 180 children and employ 30 staff—illustrating how mission‑lenders can finance growth with technical assistance. (investinvermont.org)
- MBDP workshop series: Capstone Community Action’s Micro Business workshops run free multi‑week series on bookkeeping, business planning, and marketing. These are practical, paced for busy parents, and offered on Zoom. (capstonevt.org)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Over‑estimating first‑year sales: Use conservative cash‑flow projections; lenders will expect realistic assumptions.
- Skipping registrations: Delaying your DBA or tax accounts can push back banking and payments.
- Applying for “grants” aimed at nonprofits: Read the fine print—most public grants (like CDBG or NBRC) fund municipalities/nonprofits, not individual startups. Instead, target microloans and training reimbursements. (accd.vermont.gov)
- Waiting to seek help: Free advising (VtSBDC, CWE, MBDP) can fix small problems before they block financing or licensing. (vtsbdc.org, cweonline.org, dcf.vermont.gov)
Application checklist (print and use)
- Business plan and 12–24‑month cash‑flow: Include realistic sales ramp and child care hours you can actually work.
- Personal ID and proof of Vermont address.
- Entity paperwork: Articles of Organization or DBA certificate; EIN letter.
- myVTax account confirmation: Sales/Meals & Rooms/Withholding registrations as needed.
- Bank statements and personal budget: Lenders want to see you understand monthly obligations.
- Insurance quotes: Liability and, if hiring, Workers’ Comp.
- Child care plan: CCFAP status or provider letter—critical if your work hours depend on care. (tax.vermont.gov, dcf.vermont.gov)
Diverse communities: inclusive, practical supports
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask CWE VT for inclusive cohorts; for wider community referrals (including legal and family supports), dial 2‑1‑1 and request LGBTQ+‑friendly providers. (women.vermont.gov, cweonline.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: VCLF and Community Capital both coach borrowers around accessible operations and flexible repayment. Use MBDP for one‑to‑one planning, and ask your advisor to schedule around therapies and school services. (investinvermont.org, communitycapitalvt.org, dcf.vermont.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: CWE lists the Veterans Business Outreach Center of New England (VBOC of NE) contact; SBA also has veteran certification pathways (VOSB/SDVOSB). Start with SBA VT and APEX for contracting paths. SBA VT: (802) 828‑4422. (cweonline.org, sba.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: MBDP and CVOEO offer language access; SBA’s microlenders evaluate more than credit scores and can pair loans with coaching. CVOEO MBDP: (802) 860‑1417. (cvoeosecure.org)
- Tribal citizens (Abenaki and others): For federal procurement, explore Native‑owned preferences with APEX; for development projects, check NBRC regional priorities through your RDC. (accd.vermont.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited broadband: Request phone‑based advising from VtSBDC/MBDP and use libraries/RDCs for printing and scanning. NBRC investments prioritize rural capacity; ask your RDC to place your project on their priority list. (accd.vermont.gov)
- Single fathers: All services in this guide are inclusive. MBDP, VtSBDC, and CWE support any parent entrepreneur. (dcf.vermont.gov, vtsbdc.org, cweonline.org)
- Language access: Vermont 2‑1‑1 provides language line; CVOEO and SEVCA websites include multi‑language tools. (women.vermont.gov, sevca.org)
Regional resources (who to call near you)
- Addison County: RDC—Addison County Economic Development Corp (802) 388‑7953; CVOEO MBDP (802) 860‑1417. (accd.vermont.gov, cvoeosecure.org)
- Bennington & Rutland: RDC—Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region (802) 773‑2748; BROC MBDP (802) 775‑0878. (accd.vermont.gov, vermontcap.org)
- Chittenden/Grand Isle/Franklin: RDC—GBIC (802) 862‑5726; CVOEO MBDP (802) 860‑1417. (accd.vermont.gov, cvoeosecure.org)
- Washington/Orange/Lamoille: RDC—Central Vermont EDC (802) 223‑4654; Capstone MBDP (see Capstone site for current microbusiness contacts). (accd.vermont.gov, capstonevt.org)
- Caledonia/Essex/Orleans: RDC—NVDA (802) 748‑5181; NEKCA MBDP (e.g., St. Johnsbury (802) 748‑6048). (accd.vermont.gov, women.vermont.gov)
- Windham/Windsor: RDC—Springfield Regional DC (802) 885‑3061; SEVCA MBDP (802) 722‑4575 / (800) 464‑9951. (accd.vermont.gov, sevca.org)
Timelines: what to expect
- Entity registration: Online approval often within 1 business day; plan 1–2 weeks including EIN, banking, insurance. (sos.vermont.gov)
- Microloan (SBA): 3–8 weeks from complete package to funding; earlier if collateral is simple. (sba.gov)
- VEDA loans: 4–10 weeks; larger projects may take longer. (veda.org)
- VTP training grants: Application review about 18 business days after submission; reimbursement after training completes. (accd.vermont.gov)
- CCFAP: Processing varies; online applications now available through the Parent Portal, with mass redeterminations when guidelines update. (dcf.vermont.gov)
Frequently asked questions (Vermont‑specific)
- Which filing should I choose—LLC or sole prop? Answer: Many single‑owner startups start as sole proprietors with a $70 DBA to keep costs low, then convert to an LLC once revenue stabilizes. Verify current LLC fees in the SOS portal. (sos.vermont.gov)
- Do I need a business license? Answer: Vermont doesn’t have a universal business license. You register your entity/DBA with the SOS and obtain tax accounts (Sales & Use, Meals & Rooms, Withholding) on myVTax. Sector licenses (e.g., child care) are separate. (tax.vermont.gov, dcf.vermont.gov)
- Is there a grant for single moms to start a business? Answer: Not typically for individuals. Focus on microloans, training reimbursements (VTP), and nonprofit‑run programs. (sba.gov, accd.vermont.gov)
- Who can help me write a plan lenders accept? Answer: VtSBDC and MBDP provide free one‑to‑one planning and cash‑flow coaching. (vtsbdc.org, dcf.vermont.gov)
- How do I find child care I can afford while I build my business? Answer: Apply for CCFAP—eligibility went up to 575% FPL in 2024 and used 2025 FPLs in March 2025. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- Can I get paid while building my business if I’m on unemployment? Answer: Ask about SEA; if eligible and accepted, you can receive an allowance while working full‑time on your business. Space is limited. (legislature.vermont.gov)
- How can I sell to the State of Vermont? Answer: Watch OPC bid postings and register in VTBuys. For help, contact the APEX Accelerator. (bgs.vermont.gov)
- Who does SBA lending in Vermont? Answer: Many banks plus nonprofit microlenders like Community Capital of Vermont and Vermont Community Loan Fund. SBA VT can share current lender lists. (802) 828‑4422. (sba.gov)
- What’s a realistic start‑up runway? Answer: Plan 3–6 months to move from idea to first sales—faster if you already have customers. Use microloans to cover initial inventory and marketing while you apply for CCFAP. (sba.gov, dcf.vermont.gov)
- Where do I get local market data and leads? Answer: Your RDC and APEX can point you to regional data, matchmaker events, and buyer directories. (accd.vermont.gov)
What to do if doors keep closing
- Switch to a tiny pilot: Ask for 2,500–2,500–5,000 microloans to validate sales, then step up. (communitycapitalvt.org)
- Trim start‑up costs: Use a DBA first; sell preorders; partner with a shared kitchen or maker space.
- Secure child care: Lock in CCFAP before taking on debt so you can work consistent hours. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- Get a second opinion: Ask VtSBDC to review your projections; they’ll help revise before you re‑apply. (vtsbdc.org)
Quick tables you can use
Table: Vermont small‑business capital programs
| Program | Max loan / grant | Typical rate/terms | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| SBA Microloan (local nonprofits) | Up to $50,000 | Generally 8%–13%, up to 7 years | Working capital, inventory, equipment; cannot buy real estate. (sba.gov) |
| VEDA Small Business Loan | Up to $1,000,000 | Variable/fixed; fees per schedule | Up to 40% fixed assets / 50% working capital; ≥10% equity. (veda.org) |
| VEDA Entrepreneurial Loan | Up to 350,000∗∗(maxoutstanding∗∗350,000** (max outstanding **500,000) | Terms vary; start‑ups | Must operate in VT for 5 years post‑funding. (veda.org) |
| VCLF Business Loans | Up to $350,000 | Avg ~8.25%; flexible terms | Mission‑fit projects statewide. (investinvermont.org) |
| VCLF Early Childhood Education Loans | Up to $350,000 | As low as 7.5% | For licensed/registered child care programs. (investinvermont.org) |
| Vermont Training Program | Reimburses up to 50% | Reimbursement after training | For pre‑employment/new‑hire/incumbent training. (accd.vermont.gov) |
Table: Registration & tax setup
| Step | Agency | Cost | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| LLC Articles of Organization | SOS | 125∗∗or∗∗125** or **155 (see note) | Register a Business (sos.vermont.gov) |
| DBA (Assumed Business Name) | SOS | $70 | Assumed Business Name Registration (sos.vermont.gov) |
| Business Tax Accounts | Dept. of Taxes | $0 | Register on myVTax (tax.vermont.gov) |
| Meals & Rooms License | Dept. of Taxes | $0 | Getting Started – Meals & Rooms (tax.vermont.gov) |
Table: Contacts you’ll actually call
| Need | Organization | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Free advising | VtSBDC | (802) 728‑9101 / (800) 464‑SBDC (vtsbdc.org) |
| Women’s business support | CWE Vermont | (802) 391‑4870 (cweonline.org) |
| SBA Vermont | SBA District Office | (802) 828‑4422 (sba.gov) |
| State procurement help | APEX Accelerator | (802) 828‑5237 / Director (802) 522‑9135 (accd.vermont.gov) |
| MBDP – Rutland/Bennington | BROC | (802) 775‑0878 / (800) 717‑2762 (vermontcap.org) |
| MBDP – Windham/Windsor | SEVCA | (802) 722‑4575 / (800) 464‑9951 (sevca.org) |
| MBDP – Addison/Chittenden/Franklin/Grand Isle | CVOEO | (802) 860‑1417 (x116/x120) (cvoeosecure.org) |
| Child care licensing questions | DCF Licensor on Duty | 1‑800‑649‑2642 (option 3) (dcf.vermont.gov) |
Table: Child care affordability quick facts
| Item | Vermont detail |
|---|---|
| CCFAP income eligibility | Up to 575% FPL since Oct 2024; 2025 FPL updates March 2025. (dcf.vermont.gov) |
| Family share | As low as $0 for lowest‑income tiers (per 2024/2025 updates). (dcf.vermont.gov) |
| Apply | Online via CDDIS (Parent Portal) or local agency. (dcf.vermont.gov) |
Table: Housing/market context for planning
| Area | FY2025 HUD 80% AMI (Low‑Income Limit) |
|---|---|
| Burlington–South Burlington MSA | 1‑person 72,700∗∗;3‑person∗∗72,700**; 3‑person **93,500; 4‑person $103,850 (effective June 1, 2025). (burlingtonvt.gov) |
Reality checks, tips, and warnings
- Cash cushion matters: Even a small 2,500–2,500–10,000 cushion smooths the first inventory buy and marketing push.
- Beware of “grant guru” scams: Stick to official sites—SBA, State of Vermont, your municipality, and established nonprofits.
- Train for contracts you can actually staff: VTP reimburses training, but only after completion; plan cash flow accordingly. (accd.vermont.gov)
About this guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: This guide uses official sources from Vermont Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits.
How we work: This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Last verified: September 2025, next review April 2026.
We welcome corrections: Email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll respond within 48–72 hours.
Disclaimer
General information only: Program rules, amounts, fees, and deadlines can change without notice. Always verify details with the relevant agency or lender before you apply or pay fees.
Security note: For your privacy and safety, avoid sharing sensitive personal data (SSNs, bank logins) by email or text; use official portals (myVTax, CDDIS, SBA, lenders) and enable multi‑factor authentication wherever possible.
What we covered—and why it beats thin “listicle” pages
Most top search results miss concrete Vermont numbers, current contacts, or they point to generic national content. This hub gives you current Vermont filing fees (with citations to conflicting SOS tables and how to verify), real child care eligibility thresholds, microlender amounts and rates, a true Plan B for when credit is tight, and phone numbers you can call today. We prioritized official state pages, SBA, and established Vermont nonprofits to keep every figure legitimate. (sos.vermont.gov, tax.vermont.gov, dcf.vermont.gov, sba.gov, investinvermont.org)
If you read only one more section, make it this one
Your first three moves:
- Call VtSBDC: (802) 728‑9101 to get a free advisor.
- Apply for CCFAP if eligible: stabilize child care so you can work your plan. (vtsbdc.org, dcf.vermont.gov)
- Pick a starter capital path: SBA Microloan via Community Capital of Vermont or VCLF; or talk to VEDA if you have a larger project. Then build your pipeline via APEX/OPC or your local RDC. (communitycapitalvt.org, investinvermont.org, veda.org, bgs.vermont.gov, accd.vermont.gov)
You’ve got this—one verified step at a time.
🏛️More Vermont Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Vermont
- 📋 Assistance Programs
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- 🔧 Job Training
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- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
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- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
