Best Grants for Special Education in Connecticut

Connecticut 501(c)(3) nonprofits with capital needs for education, human services, or arts and culture programs can seek up to US $10,000 for one-time, direct-service-related projects. With a mission to improve quality of life, American Savings Foundation prioritizes children, youth, and families, with focused capital support in New Britain and Waterbury that may benefit special needs education providers.

Connecticut 501(c)(3) nonprofits seeking general operating or program support can access funding through the Cornelia T Bailey Charitable Tr for work in arts, education, environmental ingenuity, medical research, and veterans initiatives. Special education programs that fit these priorities and serve Connecticut residents may be eligible to apply via a letter of inquiry.

The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.

Connecticut 501(c)(3) organizations helping underprivileged students with college entrance exams or trade-school pathways can access funding through Cornelia T Bailey Charitable Trust. Grants up to US $25,000 support small-group SAT/ACT prep, intensive counseling, FAFSA and application assistance, and mentoring for at-risk or economically deprived youth exploring college or skilled trades.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

Nonprofit tax-exempt organizations in Connecticut seeking support for vulnerable children, educational opportunities for low-income students, Alzheimer’s research, or environmental projects may be eligible for funding. The Goodnow Fund, based in Darien with a focus on Fairfield County, provides grants for general operating expenses and special projects, but does not accept unsolicited proposals.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in the U.S. addressing chronic poverty through direct social services can apply for Hearst Foundation’s Social Service Grant, with awards of more than US $100,000 for program, capital, or general support. Grants from William Randolph Hearst Foundation help Connecticut special education providers that also deliver qualifying social service programs serving large populations and demonstrating strong impact and sustainability.

Connecticut 501(c)(3) nonprofits offering education, workforce readiness, human welfare, arts, or civic programs in New London or Windham Counties can receive funding for programs or general operating support. Nordson Corporation Foundation prioritizes results-oriented educational initiatives, including early childhood, K–12, academic enrichment, and job readiness that strengthen local communities and promote self-sufficiency.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations near TJX locations, including Connecticut, can apply for The Tjx Foundation’s grants to support basic needs, youth enrichment, workforce readiness, and safety from domestic violence. Eligible groups must be within 15 miles of a TJX site and may support at-risk youth, including those in special education, through out-of-school opportunities.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

Educational organizations in Connecticut working on college readiness, access, and success for underserved students can seek support from the Lloyd G. Balfour Foundation. With a mission to advance higher education opportunities, the foundation funds New England programs, research, and limited preK–12 reform that help under-represented students enter and complete 2- or 4-year postsecondary credentials.

Organizations providing health, human services, or housing support in Connecticut, especially around Litchfield and nearby towns, can apply for the Lena Benas Memorial Fund. Grants prioritize underserved residents, with special consideration for housing maintenance and human services for needy populations; special education providers that fit these priorities may be eligible.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

The FCIDD was founded for the purpose of providing support to organizations that serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Mission Statement: The Foundation supports organizations which enhance the lives of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities by promoting research, projects, education and advocacy. 

Nonprofit Project Grants

The Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (FCIDD) funds 501(c)(3) organizations working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities of all ages, primarily in the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Virginia. 

Funding Priorities

• Grants will be awarded for the purpose of primarily benefiting, including, or increasing accessibility for individuals with intellectual or development disabilities.
• Grants may be awarded for scholarships or training personnel in the care and education of individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities. 
• Grants shall mainly be distributed to a Charity whose primary purpose or whose project is to support individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. A Charity which has a project to benefit individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities based on financial need shall be awarded the grant money based upon its own objective criteria and without any special preference to members of Civitan or members of their family.

Grant Categories

A grant application typically fits into one of the following categories: Accessibility & Engagement; Educational Spaces; Program Area Improvements; Outreach and Education 

Accessibility & Engagement

For museums, parks, other public spaces without a specific I/DD focus wanting to make property or equipment improvements and additions to better include visitors with I/DD.

Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

The FCIDD was founded for the purpose of providing support to organizations that serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Mission Statement: The Foundation supports organizations which enhance the lives of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities by promoting research, projects, education and advocacy. 

Nonprofit Project Grants

The Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (FCIDD) funds 501(c)(3) organizations working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities of all ages, primarily in the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Virginia. 

Funding Priorities

• Grants will be awarded for the purpose of primarily benefiting, including, or increasing accessibility for individuals with intellectual or development disabilities.
• Grants may be awarded for scholarships or training personnel in the care and education of individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities. 
• Grants shall mainly be distributed to a Charity whose primary purpose or whose project is to support individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. A Charity which has a project to benefit individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities based on financial need shall be awarded the grant money based upon its own objective criteria and without any special preference to members of Civitan or members of their family.

Grant Categories

A grant application typically fits into one of the following categories: Accessibility & Engagement; Educational Spaces; Program Area Improvements; Outreach and Education 

Educational Spaces

For I/DD serving school programs with a 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) attached needing property improvements or equipment/resource purchases to better serve their students with I/DD.

The FCIDD Nonprofit Project Grants are designed to support 501(c)(3) organizations working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across various states. Grants are awarded for projects that enhance accessibility, provide educational opportunities, and promote community engagement. The foundation encourages collaboration with local Civitan clubs, particularly in October and March funding rounds, while also offering open applications in July. The initiative aims to empower nonprofits to improve the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities.

Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

The FCIDD was founded for the purpose of providing support to organizations that serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Mission Statement: The Foundation supports organizations which enhance the lives of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities by promoting research, projects, education and advocacy. 

Nonprofit Project Grants

The Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (FCIDD) funds 501(c)(3) organizations working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities of all ages, primarily in the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Virginia. 

Funding Priorities

• Grants will be awarded for the purpose of primarily benefiting, including, or increasing accessibility for individuals with intellectual or development disabilities.
• Grants may be awarded for scholarships or training personnel in the care and education of individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities. 
• Grants shall mainly be distributed to a Charity whose primary purpose or whose project is to support individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. A Charity which has a project to benefit individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities based on financial need shall be awarded the grant money based upon its own objective criteria and without any special preference to members of Civitan or members of their family.

Grant Categories

A grant application typically fits into one of the following categories: Accessibility & Engagement; Educational Spaces; Program Area Improvements; Outreach and Education 

Program Area Improvements

For I/DD specific 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) looking to add/improve programming potential via equipment and property improvements, updates and additions.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits supporting education, children, or related services in Connecticut can apply for Hansen Family Foundation grants of US $1,000 - US $10,000 for program needs. Organizations working in areas like educational access, youth services, child welfare, and humanitarian support may be eligible if they meet the foundation’s mission and size requirements.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving Connecticut communities with programs in economic stability, workforce development, health and social services, or disaster relief may be eligible for project, operating, or capital support. O'Reilly Automotive Foundation supports quality-of-life initiatives for underserved people where O'Reilly Auto Parts operates, which may include organizations providing services to special education students and their families.

Grants from Katharine Matthies Foundation help Connecticut education, human services, and health care organizations serving underserved populations in the Lower Naugatuck Valley. Eligible nonprofits must serve Seymour, Ansonia, Derby, Oxford, Shelton, or Beacon Falls, with one-year awards common and occasional multi-year support; programs for children or animal welfare may receive special consideration.

With a mission to support educational, cultural, human services, and health programming, the Anna Fitch Ardenghi Trust provides Connecticut nonprofits with one-year grants serving underserved residents of New Haven. New Haven-based organizations, especially those focused on arts or youth-related programming, may be eligible to support special needs or broader education initiatives.

Connecticut education, health, and human services nonprofits serving underserved populations can seek one-year program funding, including special needs education initiatives. Mabel F Hoffman Charitable Trust focuses on organizations in Connecticut, with special consideration for those serving Hartford, and does not support capital projects or typically fund start-ups.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.

Connecticut education and child welfare organizations can apply for Elizabeth Carse Foundation’s one-year grants, awarding up to US $10,000 for program-specific work rather than general operations or capital projects. Programs that train elementary and secondary teachers to help children achieve better standards of living, including those serving special education students, may be especially competitive.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and municipalities in Connecticut can seek funding for education, health, human services, housing, and arts programs that benefit residents of Hartford, Tolland, and Windham Counties. SBM Charitable Foundation supports initiatives such as academic enrichment, scholarships, literacy, and community programs, which may include services for students in special education or with special needs.