Search Through Agriculture Grants in Connecticut in the U.S.

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.

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 Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

The Harris Family Scholarship, established by the Connecticut Community Foundation in 1923, supports local students pursuing post-secondary degrees in agriculture-related fields. As one of the largest scholarship providers in the Greater Waterbury and Litchfield Hills region, the Foundation aims to address community needs and enhance educational opportunities. This scholarship reflects the generosity of many donors dedicated to helping students achieve their academic goals and contribute to the community.

The Connecticut Specialty Crop Block Grant Program aims to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops through innovative projects. With over $6.8 million allocated to support 65 projects, the program encourages applications that address industry needs, including new priority areas focused on diversity and inclusion. Eligible specialty crops range from fruits and vegetables to honey and processed foods made from at least 50% specialty ingredients. This initiative plays a crucial role in strengthening Connecticut's agricultural sector.

The Erwin C. Bauer Charitable Trust Fund Grant supports a variety of charitable purposes, including education, health, environmental conservation, and social services for residents of Madison, CT. Established in 1990 by Erwin C. Bauer, the trust aims to enhance community well-being through funding programs that qualify under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS. Applications are accepted year-round, with a submission deadline of March 15 for annual review.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

The AgEnhancement Grant, awarded by Farm Credit East and CoBank, provides funding between $500 to $10,000 annually to support projects that enhance agriculture, commercial fishing, and forest products in the Northeast. Since 1996, over $3.5 million has been distributed to various organizations. The program seeks initiatives that promote diversity and provide opportunities for all-sized farms, ensuring long-term benefits to the community and industry.

The Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program offers over $2.1 million in competitive grant funding from the Connecticut Department of Agriculture to enhance food supply chain resilience. This Equipment Only grant supports the purchase of specialized equipment, not exceeding $5,000 per unit, for processing, storage, transportation, and distribution of locally sourced food products. The program aims to increase market access, production, and diversify offerings, thereby strengthening local food systems and benefiting regional economies.

The Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program, funded by the Connecticut Department of Agriculture, offers over $2.1 million in competitive grants to enhance food supply chain resilience. This initiative supports projects aimed at boosting local food product capacity through aggregation, processing, and distribution, excluding meat and poultry. Eligible projects will benefit the state's agriculture sector, promoting sustainability and regional food security.

The Cornelius and Mary Jane York Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports students pursuing a four-year degree at the UConn College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources. Established in memory of Clarence B. Sharp, former mayor of Groton, this scholarship honors his significant contributions to local development and community infrastructure. The CFECT, founded in 1983, aims to enhance the quality of life across 42 towns in Eastern Connecticut through philanthropy and advocacy.

The Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program provides grants for graduate students to research sustainable agriculture under faculty supervision. Proposals should address relevant issues for Northeast farmers and agricultural professionals. Projects should align with themes of stewardship, profitability, and quality of life. The aim is to support diversified and profitable agriculture in the Northeast, enhancing community and environmental well-being through effective resource management.

The Mary Clinton Scholarship Award, offered by the Redding Garden Club, supports Redding residents pursuing studies in agriculture, horticulture, and environmental science. This scholarship awards $2,000 to high school seniors or adult learners enrolling in relevant fields, honoring Mary Clinton’s dedication to the community. Eligible applicants must reside in Redding, Connecticut, and demonstrate a commitment to their chosen area of study, fostering future generations in environmental stewardship.

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.

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.

The Connecticut Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) program, funded by the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service, aims to foster innovative conservation practices on private lands. While funding is unavailable for 2025, the program traditionally supports projects that enhance water quality, soil health, and wildlife habitats. CIG offers three annual funding opportunities: National CIG Classic, State CIG Classic, and On-Farm Trials, each targeting specific conservation priorities and encouraging agricultural producers' participation.

The Lilah Hilliard Fisher Foundation Grant offers year-round funding for initiatives focused on regenerative agriculture and nutrition education, particularly in New York City and Litchfield County, Connecticut. Emphasizing support for human trafficking survivors, youth development, and social justice, the Foundation seeks projects that align with these priorities. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities, with some multi-year grants available. Notably, proposals outside the specified areas are by invitation only.

The CT Trees for Communities Grant, offered by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, supports urban forestry projects aimed at enhancing tree canopy in underserved areas. With awards up to $200,000 and no match required, the program encourages community involvement in project design. It addresses urban forestry goals like tree planting, invasive species management, and urban wood utilization, while promoting environmental health and economic benefits for Connecticut residents.

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 Connecticut Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) supports farmers and landowners in enhancing their existing conservation efforts while improving agricultural operations. The program offers technical and financial assistance for practices that promote environmental stewardship, such as improving soil health and wildlife habitats. Participants can receive annual payments and bundles of enhancements, all while committing to a five-year contract aimed at sustainable land management. CSP is designed for all producers, regardless of operation size or type of crops.

The Connecticut Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) offers vital support to farmers and landowners, providing technical and financial assistance to enhance conservation efforts on working lands. This program addresses key issues like water quality, soil health, and wildlife habitat, while supporting sustainable agricultural practices. Participants can benefit from customized conservation plans, reducing pollution and improving resilience against climate variability. EQIP also includes targeted initiatives for specific environmental challenges, ensuring comprehensive support for agricultural sustainability.

The Connecticut Agricultural Management Assistance (AMA) program supports producers in improving water management, planting trees, and diversifying production to mitigate risks. With financial assistance covering up to 75% of conservation practice costs, participants can receive up to $50,000 annually. This program is designed for farmers in 16 states with low federal crop insurance participation, allowing them to enhance resource conservation and sustainability while complying with specific eligibility requirements.

CT Grown for CT Kids

The CTG4CTK Grant shall, assist schools, school districts, childcare centers and homes, and organizations to develop farm-to-school programs that will increase the availability of local foods in child nutrition programs, allow educators to use hands-on educational techniques to teach students about nutrition and farm-to-school connections, sustain relationships with local farmers and producers, enrich the educational experience of students, improve the health of children in the state and enhance the state's economy.

Connecticut Farm to Early Childcare and Education (ECE) Grant

Purpose

Early Childcare Education (ECE) is a critical component of farm to school, yet many operate very differently from K-12 education, thus we have created a separate track for all ECE providers and networks to apply. Applicants under this category will only be evaluated against each other.

Potential Projects

Project Examples (projects can incorporate multiple components; you are not limited to those listed):

• Purchase of Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) shares for students and families.
• Purchase of CT Grown farm products for integration into student snacks/meals with clear educational farm and/or nutrition connection.
• Purchase and installation of raised garden beds or indoor growing systems/container gardens, tools, and equipment for experiential learning.
• Development/expansion of agriculture curriculum for students.
• Establishing and expanding Farm to ECE Networks.
• Professional Development Trainings for staff.
• Family engagement activities such as the creation of recipe books, cooking classes and/or take-home taste tests.
• Farm field trip and farmer visit to school(s)

Funding

Early childcare educators may apply for up to $50,000, and their programs must run for a minimum of twelve (12) months to a maximum of eighteen (18) months.

The Agricultural Enhancement Grant, previously known as the Farm Viability Grant, offers matching funds to Connecticut municipalities and agricultural organizations for projects that enhance agricultural viability. The program supports initiatives that align with the state's agricultural goals, ensuring funding does not exceed $49,999. This grant is crucial for fostering sustainable farming practices and preserving farmland in Connecticut, promoting economic growth and community development.