About CoLab VT
Strengthening Vermont's nonprofit sector — together.
CoLab VT blossomed from collaborative efforts by Leaves of Change VT, Common Good VT, Vermont Community Foundation, UVM's Masters of Public Administration program, VT Arts Council, VT Council of Rural Development (VCRD).
Our Mission
Building the connective tissue of Vermont's nonprofit sector
Vermont's nonprofits serve every corner of the state — from food shelves and housing organizations to arts groups and environmental advocates. Yet too often, these organizations work in isolation, duplicating efforts and missing opportunities to share resources, expertise, and infrastructure.
In response, CoLab's mission is simple but urgent:
To build the connective tissue between Vermont's nonprofit sector through catalyzing collaboration and shared services that help organizations thrive — together.
"No single organization can solve Vermont's most pressing challenges alone. But together, we have everything we need."
CoLab VT Founding Principle
Our Story
Born from Vermont's collaborative spirit
Over a year ago, we embarked on a journey to find ways to build resilience in Vermont's nonprofit sector. That journey was grounded in deep listening — and the numbers reflect it.
surveys with over 50 respondents, representing hundreds of nonprofits
peer-to-peer learning events with over 35 participants each
focus groups with nonprofits involved in or considering collaborations
interviews with nonprofit collaborative practitioners across the US
case study explorations
The number one thing we heard — not surprising — is that nonprofit leaders are exhausted and need streamlined access to support and resources.
CoLab VT was built in direct response to that need. We work with nonprofits of all sizes and missions across Vermont, offering resources, facilitated learning, and community spaces where organizations can share what they know, find partners, and build the collaborative relationships that make lasting impact possible.
What We Stand For
Our values
Rooted in Vermont
We are built by and for Vermont's nonprofit community — grounded in the relationships, landscapes, and civic traditions that make this state unique.
Collaboration First
We believe that nonprofits working together — sharing resources, knowledge, and capacity — can accomplish far more than any single organization working alone.
Practical & Accessible
Our tools, trainings, and resources are designed to be immediately useful — not theoretical. We meet organizations where they are.
Long-Term Thinking
Sustainable impact requires sustained relationships. We invest in the connective tissue of Vermont's nonprofit sector for the long haul.
How We Work
Three ways CoLab VT supports Vermont nonprofits
Connect
We support connections between nonprofits through hosted convenings, office hours, and communities of practice.
Educate
We offer trainings, workshops, and a growing resource library focused on collaboration models, shared services, and partnership frameworks.
Catalyze
We facilitate collaborative projects, help organizations design shared infrastructure, and support the early stages of nonprofit partnerships.
Ready to collaborate?
Whether you're looking for a partner, a resource, or a community — CoLab VT is here to help you find it.