County Accepting Applications for Veterans Microgrant Program

The Dutchess County Office of Veterans Affairs is now accepting applications for its 2025 Veterans Microgrant Program, a competitive initiative that provides one-time grants to local nonprofits and municipalities to support programs and activities that benefit veterans and honor their service. Applications can be submitted online through Dutchess County’s grant portal and will be reviewed on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted.

Organizations and municipalities can receive grants of up to $15,000 to cover expenses such as equipment, resources or other one-time costs aimed at improving program offerings and increasing accessibility for veterans. The 2025 Dutchess County Budget includes $200,000 Veterans Microgrant Program.

Nonprofit organizations and municipalities that provide dedicated programs benefiting U.S. Armed Forces veterans in Dutchess County are encouraged to apply. Preference will be given to those that do not have existing service contracts with the County. Organizations or municipalities that received funding through Dutchess County’s 2023 or 2024 Veterans Microgrant programs are not eligible for this round of funding.

Examples of possible funding awards include:

• Enhancement/expansion of a program/service currently offered to veterans;
• New programming for veterans provided by an agency that already provides services to veterans;
• Purchase of plaques, banners, or monuments to honor veterans;
• Expenses associated with an event (picnic or holiday party) to honor veterans. No alcohol will be reimbursed; and
• General capital infrastructure to facilities, including physical structures (roof, windows, doors, etc.), HVAC, plumbing, electrical, security, furniture, fixtures, and equipment. The structure’s primary purpose must be for veterans’ services.

Only one application per organization will be accepted. Funding should be utilized within one year of award. The complete list of Veterans Microgrant instructions and guidance is available online.

An example of projects funded through the County’s previous Veterans Microgrant programs: Marine Corps League Detachment 861 received a 2024 Dutchess County Veterans Microgrant to purchase a lift chair (seen attached photo) to assist veterans with difficulties walking and climbing stairs gain access to upstairs meeting room at Beacon Veterans Memorial Building.

For more information on veterans services throughout Dutchess County visit: dutchessny.gov/veterans.