Best Grants for Teachers Continuing Education in Connecticut

The Davis Family Foundation, established in Maine, focuses on granting support to educational, medical, and cultural/arts organizations. With over $63.5 million awarded since 1986, the foundation emphasizes innovative projects that make a significant impact on Maine communities. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and align with the foundation's priorities, ensuring projects enhance educational outcomes or address medical issues effectively. The foundation seeks unique projects that engage the community and preserve Maine's cultural heritage.

Research for Novel Approaches in Sustainable Agriculture Grant Program

The Northeast SARE Research for Novel Approaches grant program funds ‘proof of concept’ applied research projects that are designed to confirm the benefits and/or feasibility of new practices and approaches—i.e., Novel Approaches—in agriculture.

These applied research projects must have some existing evidence from previous experiments or pilot projects (your own or others) suggesting that the practice or approach is beneficial and feasible, but further testing, data, and refinement are needed before it can be recommended for widespread adoption by farmers.

Research for Novel Approaches Grant projects require an explicit connection to the needs and interests of farmers in the Northeast. All proposals must include documented interest among farmers and service providers in utilizing or promoting the novel approach should it be proven beneficial and feasible.

Funding Available

Novel Approaches grants have a minimum award of $30,000 and a cap of $250,000.

The RADM David M. Goebel, USN Leadership Award, offered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, recognizes New London graduates who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in areas such as academics, athletics, or public service, particularly in overcoming adversity. Since its inception, the Community Foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships, supporting students in their pursuit of education and career goals.

Liberty Bank Foundation

Established in 1997, Liberty Bank Foundation extends Liberty Bank’s long-standing commitment to strengthening the communities we’ve proudly served for over 200 years.

Grants

We support 501(c)(3) organizations whose work aligns with our funding priorities and creates meaningful local impact. We encourage applicants to review our Grant Guidelines to learn more about eligibility, focus areas, and the application process.

Our Focus Areas and Intended Impact

Our grantmaking is rooted in Liberty Bank’s mission to improve the lives of our customers, teammates, and communities for generations to come. Through the Foundation, we invest in nonprofit partners working to strengthen local communities and expand opportunity for the people and places we serve.

Our funding priorities focus on areas where community investment can create lasting, measurable impact:

• Education, Workforce Readiness, and Support for Small Business: Supporting programs that help students and adults build the skills, confidence, and pathways needed for future success.
• Affordable Housing: Supporting efforts that increase housing stability and help individuals and families access safe, affordable places to live.
• Food Security: We offer a limited number of grants to support the primary food pantry or soup kitchen in communities where we operate. Our primary means for addressing food security is through our Liberty Bank Rotary Club Thanksgiving Drive. 

Across these focus areas, we look for clear community need, strong nonprofit partners, practical plans, and outcomes that help individuals and families become stronger, more stable, and better positioned for the future.

Local Impact Grants

Local Impact Grants offer smaller grants for short-term projects that can move quickly and make a clear community impact. These grants are designed to be simple, accessible, and responsive to nonprofit partners whose work aligns with our Foundation’s funding priorities.

This grant is the best fit for short-term, clearly defined projects or programs with a practical plan and clear community benefit. Projects should generally be completed within 6–9 months.

Requests greater than $5,000 but less than $10,000 should be submitted through the Local Impact Grants application; awards generally will not exceed $5,000. Applicants requesting more than $5,000 should understand that the Foundation may award partial funding.

Liberty Bank Foundation

Established in 1997, Liberty Bank Foundation extends Liberty Bank’s long-standing commitment to strengthening the communities we’ve proudly served for over 200 years.

Grants

We support 501(c)(3) organizations whose work aligns with our funding priorities and creates meaningful local impact. We encourage applicants to review our Grant Guidelines to learn more about eligibility, focus areas, and the application process.

Our Focus Areas and Intended Impact

Our grantmaking is rooted in Liberty Bank’s mission to improve the lives of our customers, teammates, and communities for generations to come. Through the Foundation, we invest in nonprofit partners working to strengthen local communities and expand opportunity for the people and places we serve.

Our funding priorities focus on areas where community investment can create lasting, measurable impact:

• Education, Workforce Readiness, and Support for Small Business: Supporting programs that help students and adults build the skills, confidence, and pathways needed for future success.
• Affordable Housing: Supporting efforts that increase housing stability and help individuals and families access safe, affordable places to live.
• Food Security: We offer a limited number of grants to support the primary food pantry or soup kitchen in communities where we operate. Our primary means for addressing food security is through our Liberty Bank Rotary Club Thanksgiving Drive. 

Across these focus areas, we look for clear community need, strong nonprofit partners, practical plans, and outcomes that help individuals and families become stronger, more stable, and better positioned for the future.

Strategic Impact Grants

Nonprofits interested in Strategic Impact Grants should begin by completing a Letter of Interest (LOI). The LOI should provide a brief overview of the organization, the proposed project or initiative, the community need addressed, expected outcomes, alignment with the Foundation’s funding priorities, and the amount of funding requested.

The Connecticut Health Foundation offers sponsorship for health-related events that reflect its mission. Funding supports various events like conferences, forums, and community gatherings, with a focus on partnerships that provide recognition and promotional opportunities. Eligibility is limited to 501(c)(3) organizations or public entities, ensuring the events benefit Connecticut residents. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with foundation priorities and potential to enhance visibility for CT Health.

The Philip A. Turner Scholarship, established by friends and family in memory of Philip A. Turner, supports New London students involved with the Rotary Club of New London's Interact organization. Eligible applicants must be planning to major in Business or a related field, maintain good academic standing, and demonstrate financial need. A secondary preference is given to Norwich Free Academy students committed to community service. Since 1983, the Community Foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships.

The Marjory B. and Laurence P. "Jim" Smith Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, offers $12,000 over four years to outstanding students with financial need from East Lyme, Robert Fitch, Montville, New London, and Waterford High Schools. Since 1983, the foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships, supporting local students in their pursuit of education and career aspirations.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW) offers grants for schools to implement the PLTW Computer Science program from 2025 to 2028. Schools must provide at least one PLTW course in the first year and two courses in the second year. The total grant is $14,000, covering participation fees and training costs. Eligible institutions include public, private, and charter schools located in the U.S., with special encouragement for those serving low-income or minority-majority populations.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant opportunity for schools to implement the PLTW Engineering program for the 2025-2026 academic year and beyond. Eligible institutions include public, private, and charter schools located in the US. Grant recipients will receive funding to cover participation fees and training costs. Total funding amounts to $16,000, distributed over three years. Schools are encouraged to create pathways for students in engineering through this initiative.

The Laura Fish-Kelly Scholarship, established by financial advisor Laura Fish-Kelly, supports female students from Windham County pursuing business-related studies at accredited colleges. It is part of the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, which has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships since 1983. This scholarship aims to help students with financial need achieve their educational goals and contribute positively to their communities.

The Laura B. Seder Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, provides financial assistance to students from Norwich attending accredited colleges or universities. Established in memory of Laura B. Seder, a dedicated lawyer and community member, this scholarship emphasizes the importance of legal studies. Since 1983, the foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships to support local students in achieving their educational and career goals.

Sustainable CT's Community Match Fund is a unique funding initiative that empowers individuals and informal groups to engage their communities in sustainability projects. With no traditional application process or deadlines, it offers dollar-for-dollar matching for crowdfunding efforts. This program supports diverse initiatives, including green spaces, renewable energy, and community gardens, fostering a more equitable and vibrant environment. Participants can receive assistance in developing campaigns to turn their innovative ideas into reality.

The Toy Foundation Program offers a unique opportunity for nonprofit organizations to apply for toy donations to support children in need. The application period runs from January to June, with approved applicants receiving toys by the end of the year. This initiative, part of the Toy Chest program, has positively impacted over 35 million children since 2003, promoting play as essential for emotional and educational development.

The Coby Foundation Grant is dedicated to supporting non-profit organizations in the Mid-Atlantic and New England regions, focusing on innovative projects related to textiles and fashion. Applicants are encouraged to submit a letter of inquiry with a project description and budget at least nine months prior to the project start. The foundation seeks exhibitions, public programs, and publications that enhance understanding of textile arts, while promoting underrepresented artists and cultures.

The Spencer’s Hero Academia Memorial Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports students facing life-threatening illnesses who aspire to pursue higher education. Eligible candidates include graduating seniors or past graduates from Connecticut high schools, as well as current Connecticut residents enrolled in accredited colleges or universities. This scholarship emphasizes resilience and determination, awarding those who demonstrate perseverance despite personal health challenges.

The Breast Cancer Alliance offers Screening and Support Service Grants aimed at enhancing survival rates and quality of life for individuals affected by breast cancer. These grants specifically fund outreach programs that provide education, counseling, and diagnostic services for underserved populations in Connecticut and Westchester County, NY. The grant term lasts for one year, beginning April 1, 2026, supporting vital breast cancer screening and diagnostic services.

The WGPF: Legends & Lore Marker Grant Program celebrates and promotes local folklore, legends, and folklife as vital aspects of cultural heritage. Targeted at 501(c)(3) organizations and government entities across 14 US states, it aims to enhance cultural tourism by commemorating community stories. Successful applications typically focus on folktales, historical legends, and community traditions, while excluding purely literary works or personal folklore that lacks broader community significance.

The Breast Surgical Oncology Fellowships, funded by the Breast Cancer Alliance, aim to cultivate talented surgeons into compassionate breast specialists. This prestigious one-year fellowship, running from August 1, 2026, to July 31, 2027, offers a grant of $85,000. Eligible institutions must be accredited and located in Connecticut, New Jersey, or New York, and only US citizens with completed general surgery residencies can apply. The initiative seeks to enhance surgical expertise and improve breast cancer outcomes.

The Sustainable CT Fellowship Program offers students the opportunity to engage in sustainability initiatives across Connecticut's municipalities. By placing qualified fellows in Councils of Governments, the program aims to support local efforts toward sustainability certification. Fellows will gain practical experience, work collaboratively on projects, and build a professional network in the fields of local government and sustainability. This program fosters civic engagement, economic opportunity, and environmental health in communities throughout the state.

The CT Library Buildings and Construction Grant, offered by the CT State Library, supports public libraries in Connecticut by funding construction projects that expand usable space or enhance existing facilities. Grants cover up to 50% of project costs, with a maximum of $2 million. Eligible projects include new buildings, renovations, and improvements for accessibility or compliance with safety codes. A minimum grant of $30,000 is available for projects totaling $60,000 or more, ensuring vital resources for local libraries.

The WCGMF Director’s Discretionary Fund Grant offers financial support of up to $10,000 for community projects that promote equity in education, combat racism and poverty, and are initiated by communities of color. This fund is ideal for organizations that do not qualify for the Equity Grants Program, enabling them to pursue impactful initiatives that align with the mission of the William Caspar Graustein Memorial Fund.

The Milton Fisher Scholarship for Innovation and Creativity is a four-year renewable award aimed at high school seniors and first-time college freshmen who demonstrate exceptional innovation and creativity. Unlike traditional scholarships that prioritize academic achievement, this scholarship seeks to reward students who have solved problems creatively, whether in the arts, sciences, or community challenges. It encourages innovative thinkers from Connecticut or New York City to pursue their higher education goals.

The WCGMF Rapid Response Grants are designed to support organizations and individuals in Connecticut who confront systemic oppression through community-building and education. These grants aim to foster healing and inclusion while opposing hatred and divisiveness. Funding will be allocated swiftly to aid local groups in their advocacy efforts, ensuring timely support for critical initiatives that promote equity and well-being.

The Dairy Farm Improvement & Modernization Grant supports dairy farmers in enhancing their operations for sustainable success. This funding aids in modernizing outdated systems and implementing innovative solutions that improve farm viability, milk quality, and worker conditions while addressing climate impacts. Eligible applicants include dairy farmers, cooperatives, and service providers across Northeast states. Awards range from $15,000 to $100,000, requiring a 25% match contribution.

Connecticut Humanities offers Public Presentation Planning Grants of up to $25,000 to support the research and development of humanities projects. These grants enable organizations to conduct scholarly research, gather stakeholder feedback, and prepare for project implementation. The initiative promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that the humanities intersect with various fields like arts and STEM. By funding such projects, Connecticut Humanities aims to strengthen community engagement and enhance understanding of cultural and historical narratives.

The American Savings Foundation offers scholarships primarily to Connecticut students based on financial need, academic achievement, and community involvement. With nearly 400 scholarships awarded annually, this program supports high school seniors, current college students, and nontraditional adult learners pursuing higher education or vocational training. Applicants must reside in Connecticut and demonstrate a commitment to their educational goals. Awards are renewable for up to five years, fostering long-term educational growth and success.