Best Bridgeport Grants for Nonprofits in Connecticut

The Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program (MIECHV) aims to enhance maternal and child health, promote early childhood development, and support family well-being. By providing voluntary, evidence-based home visiting services to pregnant women and families with young children, the program addresses critical needs in communities. Funded by the US HHS: Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), MIECHV empowers families through tailored support and resources, fostering healthier outcomes for mothers and their children.

The CDC's initiative, 'Holistic and Evidence-Informed Wellness for STI Prevention', addresses the significant public health burden of STIs in the U.S. by promoting a comprehensive approach that emphasizes healthy choices and relationships. By supporting a coalition of sexual health experts, the program aims to enhance STI prevention through strategic resource allocation and the dissemination of high-quality, evidence-based materials, targeting priority groups most affected by STIs. This holistic strategy seeks to reduce STI morbidity and improve overall sexual health.

The Home Visiting Research, Improvement, Sustainability and Evaluation Center (HV-RISE) aims to enhance home visiting services for families. By leveraging research, HV-RISE supports programs in testing and implementing effective practices, thereby improving outcomes. This initiative seeks to identify and expand successful strategies, ensuring that families receive the best support possible through evidence-based home visiting services.

About The Lawson Charitable Foundation

The Lawson Charitable Foundation, created in 2021 by Cathy and Tom Lawson, helps those that are working hard to help themselves and others.

For Grant Seekers

The Lawson Charitable Foundation is committed to supporting organizations that drive meaningful change in our communities. While our primary geographic focus is New England, we welcome applications from organizations, doing extraordinary work beyond the region as well.

We are happy to offer two types of grants to support nonprofit organizations making a difference: Impact Grants and Amplify Grants.

Impact Grant

Impact Grants provide funding for programs and initiatives that closely align with our mission of helping those who are working hard to help themselves and others. These grants are designed to support opportunities that create positive change within our focus areas, ensuring resources are directed toward impactful and mission-driven efforts.

The Lawson Charitable Foundation offers Amplify Grants to support nonprofits in New England and beyond, focusing on large-scale initiatives and fundraising efforts. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $2,000, these funds are intended to inspire additional donations and enhance organizational capacity. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits, aligning with the foundation's mission and demonstrating sustainability beyond the grant period. Priority is given to projects serving New England.

The CAFE Group 

We resource leaders, invest in their genius, and bring people together to reimagine what philanthropy can do.

Founded by Liz and Don Thompson, The CAFE Group is a national nonprofit transforming how change is resourced. 

With a focus on education equity, social capital, and philanthropic transformation, we pair catalytic funding, community-rooted leadership development, and cross-sector collaboration to strengthen the people and institutions shaping a more just future. Everything we do is grounded in relationship, because we believe the way resources move matters just as much as where they land.

The 1954 Project Luminary Award

The 1954 Project Luminary Award celebrates transformational education nonprofit leaders dedicated to serving Black students and communities through powerful investments in their organizations' ability to create lasting change.

The Luminary Experience

Each Luminary organization gets more than funding. Through The 1954 Project, leaders gain a community, a platform, and space to grow with tailored support over the course of the three year journey.​

• $1 Million, Unrestricted: Catalytic funding to expand what’s working.
• Leadership Coaching + Capacity Support: Guidance from peers and experts who are committed to helping you build a lasting, impactful organization.
• National Network: Luminaries join a powerful community of innovators, change-makers, and visionaries driving systemic progress to support students and communities across the U.S.

The 1954 Project’s Impact Areas

We focus on three interconnected areas critical to advancing equity:

• Innovation in Teaching and Learning: Create education models that center Black students through culturally affirming approaches that challenge traditional structures and transform how learning happens, ultimately serving all students. 
• Diversity in Education: Build pathways that increase and sustain Black educators and education leaders who transform where and how students learn.
• Pathways to Economic Mobility: Build pathways to wealth, ownership, and economic power for Black students, families, and communities through innovative educational programming.

Our Selection Criteria

We seek out extraordinary applicants who embody our values and vision across three categories:

Leader: We look for leaders whose influence and vision contribute to the collective well-being and advancement of the Black community. These leaders:

• Are Visionary: They demonstrate a strategic and pragmatic mindset, articulating a transformative vision for significant, positive change.
• Show Demonstrated Commitment: They embody steadfast dedication to your cause, inspiring and influencing others, and galvanizing community involvement.
• Are Adaptive: They assertively tackle challenges, turning setbacks into opportunities for innovation, while maintaining humility and thoughtfulness in problem-solving.

Organization: We look for organizations that drive significant change, anchored by a deep love for people and driven by the genius within communities of color. These organizations: 

• Have a Defined Problem: They clearly identify the issue they are addressing and explain in detail how your organization tackles root causes. 
• Take a Strategic Approach: They have clear, measurable, and achievable organizational goals with a well-defined strategy informed by thorough analysis. 
• Show Demonstrated Impact: They have a tested model that has produced positive results, incorporating continuous learning and iteration. 
• Have a Transformation Plan: They present a clear plan for using the $1M award to advance your organization's mission, vision, and long-term goals. 
• Embrace Collaboration: They use collaborate to build partnerships based on trust, love, and common goals. 

Radical Imagination: We seek leaders who challenge and redesign societal norms to build a just and equitable future. They demonstrate:

• Community-Rooted Leadership: They maintain and cultivate genuine community ties, integrating professional expertise and personal commitment to drive visionary, impactful strategies. 
• Long-Term Commitment: They are in it for the long haul, committing to sustained impact across generations and prioritizing long-lasting solutions over short-term gains. 
• Collectivism: They embody the philosophy of "I am because we are," actively engaging in collaborative networks and fostering community-reflective solutions. 

CT Humanities: Mini Grants

Mini Grants are small grants of up to $2500 that support small-scale humanities activities such as discussion-based public programs, mini exhibitions, and portions of tours. Please note smaller organizations will be prioritized for this grant line.

Successful proposals must be:

• Open to the general public
• Free or low-cost to attend

Mini Grants fund several project types, including small exhibitions, walking tours, parts panel discussions, digital learning tools, and community reading projects. 

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.

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.

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.

The 2026 National Urban and Community Forestry Challenge Cost Share Grant Program aims to tackle economic, health, and environmental issues in communities through innovative tree resource utilization. By transforming wood from various sources into valuable products like lumber and biochar, this initiative promotes local economies and enhances community resilience. Projects should align with community forestry plans, adhere to safety standards, and provide job creation opportunities, ultimately fostering sustainable urban forest management and utilization.

The Healthy Tomorrows Partnership for Children Program (HTPCP) aims to enhance access to essential preventive clinical and public health services for children through community-driven initiatives. Funded by the US HHS: Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), this program focuses on empowering local communities to implement effective strategies that improve children's health outcomes and promote overall well-being. Projects funded under this initiative will play a vital role in ensuring healthier futures for children.

The Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health (AIM) program aims to enhance maternal health outcomes by providing technical assistance across all U.S. states and territories. This initiative focuses on implementing best practices to improve safety during childbirth, ultimately saving lives. By supporting jurisdictions and birthing facilities involved in AIM, the program seeks to promote quality improvements in maternal health care, ensuring safer births and better health for mothers and infants.

The LEGO Foundation Fellowship

Advancing the science and practice of supporting children to thrive

The LEGO Foundation Fellowship is a global initiative supporting researchers working to deepen our understanding of how children thrive. Spanning disciplines from education and psychology to public health, data science, and humanitarian studies, the fellowship brings together early- and mid-career scholars whose work has the potential to generate evidence that matters for children’s lives.

Fellows receive three years of flexible support to pursue rigorous, practically relevant research, and join a cohort of peers working across the fellowship’s themes. In addition to funding research, the program fosters a community of scholars engaged in meaningful exchange with one another and with research, policy, and practice audiences.

The LEGO Foundation Fellowship is developed in partnership with the LEGO Foundation, and administered by SSRC as part of its commitment to supporting scholars whose work bridges research and real-world impact.

Research themes

The LEGO Foundation Fellowship welcomes research proposals that advance understanding of children’s thriving through one of the following three themes: the youngest children in crisis and conflict settings; inclusion and wellbeing of neurodivergent children; and children’s learning and development in an AI-enabled world. Applicants may explore the role of play where it is relevant to the research question. The consideration of play is optional and not a condition of eligibility.

The BJS FY 2026 Criminal History Record Assessment and Research Program (CHRARP) aims to enhance the Bureau of Justice Statistics' ability to analyze recidivism and criminal history data. This program will support the standardization of criminal records across jurisdictions, enabling accurate statistical analyses. By refining existing data coding systems and addressing data quality issues, the CHRARP will improve research on offenders' patterns and careers, ultimately contributing to effective criminal justice policies.

The OVW Fiscal Year 2026 Training and Services to End Violence and Abuse Against Individuals with Disabilities and Deaf People Program aims to empower states, local and Tribal governments, and nonprofit organizations to provide crucial training and resources. This initiative focuses on addressing domestic violence, stalking, sexual assault, and caregiver abuse against individuals with disabilities and Deaf individuals, enhancing direct services and support for these vulnerable populations.

The BJA FY 2026 Smart Reentry Demonstration Program aims to support state, local, and tribal governments in implementing effective reentry strategies for individuals transitioning from correctional facilities back to their communities. This program encourages comprehensive interventions designed to reduce recidivism by addressing various reentry needs, as outlined in the Second Chance Act. Applications are due by October 1, 2026, at 8:59 PM ET, and are submitted through JustGrants.

The BJA FY 2026 Harold Rogers Prescription Drug Monitoring Program aims to enhance the capabilities of agencies in collecting and analyzing prescription data for controlled substances. By establishing a centralized database, this initiative will aid in the prevention of drug diversion and abuse, particularly of opioids. The program emphasizes the integration of data with health information exchanges and electronic health records, fostering local decision-making while addressing the needs of tribal and rural areas to combat substance abuse effectively.

The BJA FY26 Body-Worn Camera Policy and Implementation Program aims to assist law enforcement agencies in acquiring body-worn cameras and establishing comprehensive BWC programs. This initiative addresses the increasing demand for reliable video evidence in criminal cases, enhancing documentation and prosecutorial outcomes. By utilizing BWCs, agencies can deter assaults on officers and protect them against false accusations, ultimately improving community trust and accountability in law enforcement practices.

The BJA FY 2026 Investigating and Prosecuting Sexual Assaults in Confinement Facilities Program aims to enhance state, local, and tribal capacities to investigate and prosecute sexual assault incidents within confinement facilities. This funding opportunity is designed for law enforcement and prosecutorial agencies to effectively address and reduce sexual assault occurrences while improving prosecution success rates. Applications are due by September 30, 2026, at 8:59 PM ET.

The BJA FY 2026 Intellectual Property Enforcement Program aims to bolster public health, safety, and the economy by combating counterfeit goods and product piracy. This funding opportunity supports the formation or enhancement of law enforcement intellectual property enforcement task forces. It assists various jurisdictions in tackling intellectual property theft and related crimes, while also aiding in the investigation and prosecution of such offenses, thereby addressing the associated violent crime.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is seeking to enhance the Strategies to Innovate EmeRgENcy Care Clinical Trials Network (SIREN) through the establishment of a Clinical Coordinating Center (CCC) and Data Coordinating Center (DCC). This initiative aims to improve emergency care outcomes by supporting trials that focus on effective treatments for non-stroke neurological and cardiovascular emergencies. Although applications are not currently being solicited, this notice allows potential applicants to prepare collaborative proposals.

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) is inviting applications for the Alzheimer's Drug-Development Program (U01 Clinical Trial Optional). This initiative seeks to support pre-clinical and early-stage clinical development of innovative drug candidates aimed at preventing Alzheimer's disease or treating its symptoms. The program encourages collaboration among researchers and aims to enhance the therapeutic pipeline for AD through targeted approaches. This notice allows potential applicants time to prepare robust projects.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is dedicated to advancing emergency care through the Strategies to Innovate Emergency Care Clinical Trials Network (SIREN). This initiative seeks to establish clinical enrollment hubs that will enhance the network's ability to conduct trials aimed at improving outcomes for patients experiencing neurological and cardiovascular emergencies. Although applications are not currently being accepted, this notice encourages potential applicants to prepare collaborative and impactful proposals.

The Established Clinician Investigator Award to Support Mentoring (KS1) is designed to provide established clinician investigators with dedicated time for mentoring early-career clinician research scientists. This initiative by the US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH) aims to enhance the quality of mentorship, fostering the development of future leaders in clinical research. It supports a sustained commitment to training and guidance, ensuring a robust pipeline of skilled professionals.

The Mentored Career Transition Award (KT1/R00) offers a biphasic funding opportunity for up to 5 years, supporting the transition of postdoctoral researchers to independent faculty positions. The first phase provides 1-2 years of mentored career development, while the second phase grants up to 3 years of independent research support, contingent upon satisfactory progress and faculty appointment. This grant aims to enhance the capacity of early-career researchers in achieving research-intensive roles.