Best Environmental Education Grants in Connecticut

The Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation offers general grants aimed at promoting arts, education, and environmental initiatives. Currently, they are not accepting applications for 2025 but will reopen in January 2026. Eligible organizations must be IRS-registered 501(c)(3) entities serving specific regions, with a focus on environmental, medical, and veterans initiatives. The foundation prioritizes projects that align with its mission and provides opportunities for quality arts programming.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

The Eversource Energy Foundation Grants support community initiatives by providing funding to organizations in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $10,000 and require annual reapplication. Organizations must be based within the service territory and hold a 501(c)(3) designation. The Foundation prioritizes projects focused on community wellness, education, clean energy, and economic development while avoiding support for political, fraternal, or discriminatory activities.

• Glenn W. Bailey: STEM Scholars Grant
• Glenn W. Bailey Foundation STEM Sprouts
• Glenn W. Bailey Foundation STEM Stars
• Glenn W. Bailey Foundation Teen Tech Competition

Our Mission

Our Mission is to foster pathways to success in globally competitive STEM careers for students in the United States.

We want to help ensure that the United States remains a global thought leader in all forms of science, math, and technology by promoting projects which encourage, enhance and advance STEM education in this country and to promote projects which provide career opportunities for individuals with STEM education backgrounds.

The Foundation, formed in 2022, seeks to give students and educators more resources for developing and participating in STEM-based, hands-on learning. As a Foundation, we want to support STEM education programs that are making a difference for students regardless of their background or resources. We want every student in America to have enough exposure to STEM from an early age and to transform our attitudes around STEM subjects. We are working towards changing the narrative that promotes STEM subjects as challenging and difficult to the idea that a broad knowledge of STEM education is imperative for socioeconomic and economic freedom as an adult, for all.

Programs & Partners

STEM Encouragement 

It all begins with an idea. We support educational opportunities ranging in age from children through post-doctoral candidates and beyond to promote STEM learning and initiatives that seek to increase awareness and success in STEM careers in the United States.

Environmental & Climate

We will support Innovative Environmental Projects (IEPs) that utilize interdisciplinary research to identify and address critical environmental problems with cutting-edge, innovative solutions that are scalable and replicable.

Scientific Research

Contribute to advancements in biomedical research and innovation to accelerate the progress in medical research and drug treatment development - specifically for high-mortality, under-funded areas of need such as pancreatic and colon cancers.

Urban & Community Entrepreneurship

Advancing entrepreneurship in moderate-income and underserved communities to help business leaders of today and tomorrow prosper. The focus of this program is to help foster economic empowerment by investing in organizations focusing on one individual, one job, and one business at a time.

The Global Impact Cash Grants by Cisco Systems Foundation support innovative early-stage solutions aimed at addressing significant social problems. Targeting nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations, these grants focus on four key sectors: crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate regeneration. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with these areas, particularly serving underserved communities. The foundation seeks to leverage technology for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainability and community resilience through strategic investments.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

Our Mission

We are dedicated to empowering organizations that promote the arts and develop programs designed to inspire, educate, and engage. Our vision is a world where the arts are not viewed as a luxury or elective, but as a vital part of every individual’s development and well-being.

Through strong community partnerships, we harness the transformative power of the arts to elevate educational outcomes, foster creativity, and enhance quality of life.

We believe in the synergy that arises when artists, educators, advocates, and creatives from all disciplines—musicians, museum professionals, actors, writers, and teachers—come together and collaborate. It is scientifically proven that the arts play a fundamental role in youth development, nurturing healthy brain function, social growth, and emotional resilience.

Aligned with our mission, we also support initiatives that protect and utilize nature as a source of enrichment and healing. Conservation and beautification efforts are not only essential to environmental health but also to individual and community well-being. Research consistently shows that time spent in nature supports both physical and mental health, especially for children. We are committed to partnering with organizations that recognize the vital connection between a thriving natural environment and a thriving population.

Equally important is our dedication to supporting veterans. We recognize the sacrifices made by servicemen and women and believe they deserve meaningful pathways to recovery, healing, and renewed purpose. That’s why we invest in programs that provide therapeutic support, service animals, respite opportunities, and community-centered initiatives that help veterans and their families thrive. Veterans’ well-being is not only a moral imperative but also a cornerstone of a strong, resilient community.

As a charitable foundation, we remain committed to supporting initiatives that drive progress, improve lives, and create lasting, positive impact across the arts, the environment, education, and veteran support.

The P/Arts Program

The P/Arts Program was created to strengthen connections between the philanthropic, arts, and education communities, fostering meaningful collaborations that enrich learning and inspire growth.

Eligible applicants must be accredited 501(c)(3) organizations that integrate visual and/or performing arts education into their work. Through P/Arts, we seek to support programs that:

• Revitalize learning by enhancing and transforming outdated public school curricula.
• Motivate and inspire students of all ages, encouraging curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning.
• Empower educators by deepening professional development opportunities for teachers, professors, and childcare providers.
• Bridge the gap between school and home, creating continuity in learning and support for children and families.
• Apply evidence-based, arts-based instruction proven to strengthen both academic and personal outcomes.
• Address inequities in education by helping to close the achievement gap and expand access to high-quality learning opportunities.

At its heart, the P/Arts Program reflects our belief that the arts are a powerful driver of educational transformation, unlocking potential not just in the classroom but in entire communities.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

Wells Fargo Community Giving supports nonprofit organizations focusing on financial health, housing affordability, small business growth, and sustainability. The grant cycle runs from February to October, inviting organizations with 501(c)(3) status or equivalent to apply. Funding is prioritized for programs addressing critical community needs, while limited support is available for local initiatives like disaster relief and arts. Organizations must demonstrate fiscal stability and potential impact to be considered for funding.

The Local Preservation Partners Grant, offered by the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, aims to enhance collaboration among historic preservation organizations and local partners. This initiative supports activities like municipal planning, coalition building, and public outreach to protect cultural heritage and historic resources. Funded through the Community Investment Act, the program fosters community engagement and long-term preservation planning, contributing significantly to the state's commitment to economic growth and revitalization.

The Southbury Community Trust Fund Grant aims to support programs benefiting Southbury residents through collaboration and partnerships. Priority is given to initiatives in social services, health education, youth development, and community enhancement. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and municipal entities. The fund does not support political or religious requests and encourages projects that serve the local community and promote advocacy efforts. This grant fosters community resilience and cultural heritage.

The Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation supports tax-exempt organizations under IRS Section 501(c)(3) in four key areas: human needs, environmental stewardship, education, and community vitality. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $15,000, with two application cycles each year. Notably, funding is unavailable for organizations without 501(c)(3) status or those located outside Dominion's service areas. This foundation aims to enhance community welfare through targeted support for impactful programs.

The CT Grown for CT Kids Grant provides vital funding to enhance farm-to-school programs in Connecticut. Aimed at local boards of education, childcare centers, and organizations, this grant focuses on improving children's access to local foods, fostering nutritional education, and supporting local agriculture. By facilitating hands-on learning and sustainable practices, the program aims to enrich the educational experience and promote healthier lifestyles among children, ultimately benefiting the state's economy.

The Community Facilities Grant Program in Connecticut provides essential funding for rural areas to develop vital community facilities. This program supports projects such as healthcare facilities, public safety services, and educational institutions, enhancing the quality of life in these communities. Priority is given to smaller or low-income communities, ensuring equitable access to resources. Eligible applicants include public bodies and non-profit organizations, fostering local development and infrastructure improvements.

The Watershed Fund offers Environmental Education Grants to organizations focused on preserving water quality and enhancing community appreciation for environmental resources. Grants, typically not exceeding $10,000, support projects that educate the public on the significance of watershed land and its impact on local ecosystems. Eligible applicants include non-profits, municipalities, and educational institutions within the South Central Connecticut Regional Water District. The program emphasizes measurable outcomes and collaboration with existing environmental education initiatives.

The Environment Pillar Award by Honda supports nonprofit organizations and schools in the U.S. focused on sustainability. Grants aim to reduce environmental impact through programs in decarbonization, clean energy, and efficient resource use. Eligible projects must align with Honda's mission and primarily benefit communities where Honda associates live and work. Organizations can apply for up to two grants, provided they meet specific eligibility criteria, including tax-exempt status under the IRS.

The Iroquois Community Grant Program, established in 2007, aims to enhance the quality of life in communities hosting Iroquois facilities through funding initiatives focused on environmental preservation, passive recreation, historic preservation, and arts and culture. Grants range from $2,500 to $10,000 and are available to local governments and nonprofit organizations. The program prioritizes projects that demonstrate community involvement and alignment with grant objectives, fostering sustainable benefits for the communities served.

The Rockfall Foundation is accepting applications for its 2026 Annual Environmental Grants Program, aimed at non-profit organizations, municipalities, and schools. This program supports projects focused on environmental conservation, restoration, and education in the Lower Connecticut River Valley. Eligible expenses include materials, transportation, and program fees. Projects must demonstrate a clear benefit to the environment and align with the foundation's priorities, including environmental justice and youth engagement.

The Environmental Champions Awards, established by The Rockfall Foundation, honor individuals and organizations for their significant contributions to environmental preservation, conservation, restoration, and education in the Lower Connecticut River Valley. Recognizing efforts since 1935, the awards include the Tom ODell Distinguished Service Award and Certificates of Appreciation. Eligible projects must demonstrate a positive impact on local ecosystems and can receive funding ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 to support innovative environmental initiatives.

The Marjorie Moore Charitable Foundation Grant supports charitable projects in Kensington, Connecticut, focusing on education, arts, environmental, and health services for underserved populations. Established in 1957, it prioritizes organizations classified as 501(c)(3) charities, providing one-year grants with potential multi-year support for capital projects. Preference is given to those delivering human services or health care programming, ensuring impactful community development and support for local needs.

The Urban Green and Community Gardens Grant Program supports distressed municipalities and environmental justice communities in enhancing urban green spaces. It provides funding for projects such as community gardens and green infrastructure, aiming to improve public enjoyment and environmental education. Eligible applicants must be municipalities or registered non-profits, with a focus on projects that demonstrate public accessibility. This match-share reimbursement program requires applicants to secure 50% of the total project cost.

The Connecticut Recreational Trails Program Grants, established by the DEEP in 2015, provides funding for trail projects to support both motorized and non-motorized trails. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, municipalities, and tribal governments. Grants can cover up to 80% of project costs, with a maximum request of 1 million dollars. Key focus areas include trail construction, maintenance, accessibility for disabled individuals, and educational programs promoting safety and environmental protection.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The Long Island Sound Stewardship Fund Grant provides competitive funding to restore and protect the health of Long Island Sound. Aiming to empower underrepresented communities, this grant supports projects that promote sustainability, resilience, and equity within the watershed of Connecticut and New York. With $400,000 available in 2025, proposals should address the Long Island Sound Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (CCMP) and advance environmental justice initiatives.

The Quinnipiac River Fund Grants, founded in 1990, aim to enhance the environmental quality of the Quinnipiac River and New Haven Harbor. Annually, over $100,000 is allocated to projects focusing on pollution reduction, ecological research, public education, and habitat restoration. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt organizations and their fiscal agents. Priority is given to local nonprofits. This fund supports initiatives that significantly improve the health of the river and its surrounding watersheds.

The CSWEP Environmental Professionals Grant Program, organized by the Connecticut Society for Women Environmental Professionals, aims to empower women in environmental fields. It funds local projects in Connecticut that contribute positively to the environment. The program prioritizes applications that demonstrate significant environmental benefits, ranging from clean-up initiatives to educational programs. Through this grant, SWEP-CT fosters leadership and collaboration among women professionals, enhancing their skills and promoting public service in environmental endeavors.

The EPOC Grant Program provides funding to non-profit and not-for-profit environmental advocacy groups, as well as community-based organizations, for local projects that enhance the environment. Eligible projects include property clean-ups, reforestation, biodiversity initiatives, and environmental education efforts aimed at youth. Applications will be evaluated based on the environmental benefits they propose, with a focus on improving Connecticut's ecosystems.