Best Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits in Connecticut

Mid Shore Community Foundation Mid-Shore Community Foundation awards scholarships to high school seniors in Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot Counties, who are planning to attend a college, university, or trade school. In general, scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate academic achievement, community service, financial need, and other criteria specified by the donor.

The Foundation awards scholarships to high school seniors through a pooled scholarship application - students complete one online application in consideration for all scholarships to which they meet eligibility. All applications are reviewed and considered by the Foundation’s Scholarship Committee. Brendan Davis Memorial ScholarshipAwarded to students graduating from high schools in Kent and Talbot Counties, who are planning to pursue careers in the culinary arts. Recipients must pledge to be drug and alcohol free for the duration of the scholarship. 

Mid Shore Community Foundation Mid-Shore Community Foundation awards scholarships to high school seniors in Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot Counties, who are planning to attend a college, university, or trade school. In general, scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate academic achievement, community service, financial need, and other criteria specified by the donor.

The Foundation awards scholarships to high school seniors through a pooled scholarship application - students complete one online application in consideration for all scholarships to which they meet eligibility. All applications are reviewed and considered by the Foundation’s Scholarship Committee. Daniel H. and G. Ruth Wright Memorial Scholarship

Awarded to students graduating from Dorchester County Public Schools, who are planning to pursue degrees in Library Science or Education. 

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Donald S. & Beulah Mae Williams Scholarship

Created by the late Don Williams in 2016, this scholarship fund initially honored his beloved Beulah Mae, devoted farmer, loving housewife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. It now memorializes this Prospect farming couple.

The Williams Scholarship supports Marion County students who participated in either FFA or 4-H for three or more years.

The Canine Healthcare Fund Grant provides vital medical coverage for SDF-trained canines throughout their lives, ensuring they receive top-notch veterinary care at no expense to their handlers or agencies. Additionally, it extends support to non-SDF-trained handlers of active and retired disaster search canines, covering veterinary costs for wellness, illness, and injury not funded by their organizations. Each handler may receive up to $1,000 annually to help manage these essential healthcare expenses.

The Home Depot Foundation's Path to Pro Scholarship aims to support U.S. veterans and train skilled tradespeople. With a commitment of $750 million by 2030, the Foundation has already trained over 44,000 participants. The program collaborates with industry leaders to address the skilled labor gap, offering resources and training in various trades such as carpentry and plumbing. By providing opportunities for high school seniors and graduates, this initiative fosters career development in the home improvement sector.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Douglas & Elaine Waring Memorial Scholarship

The Douglas & Elaine Waring Memorial Scholarship Fund honors engineer Doug Waring and his wife of 49 years, Elaine. 

Created in 2002, the Waring scholarship supports the education of any Marion County high school student who scored in the upper 50th percentile of the ACT, SAT, or other national standardized test.

Scholarships for High School Seniors

Mid-Shore Community Foundation awards scholarships to high school seniors in Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot Counties, who are planning to attend a college, university, or trade school. In general, scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate academic achievement, community service, financial need, and other criteria specified by the donor.

Robert F. Walls Memorial Scholarship

Awarded to students graduating from Caroline County Public Schools

The Innovative Traffic Safety Enforcement (ITSE) Grant Program aims to develop effective traffic safety enforcement initiatives to reduce motor vehicle crashes caused by risky driving behaviors. It encompasses three evaluation phases, with deadlines from September 2026 to September 2027. This program seeks to fund scalable and repeatable projects that align with the Department of Transportation's mission and executive priorities, enhancing safety across the United States.

The Dog Enrichment Grant, offered by the Petfinder Foundation, aims to enhance the quality of life for dogs awaiting adoption through enrichment activities and items. Grants are available for play yard renovations (up to $3,000) and interactive items (up to $1,000). Applications are accepted monthly until funds are depleted, and the window closes on November 1. Eligible expenses must be utilized within three months, and reimbursement requests will not be accepted.

The Live Your Dream Awards, sponsored by Soroptimist International of the Americas, empower women by providing vital monetary assistance for their education and training. Each year, over $3 million is awarded to more than 2,300 women who are the primary financial support for their families. This initiative supports those overcoming significant challenges like poverty and domestic violence, ensuring they have the resources to achieve their dreams and live fulfilling lives.

Scholarships for High School Seniors

Mid-Shore Community Foundation awards scholarships to high school seniors in Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot Counties, who are planning to attend a college, university, or trade school. In general, scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate academic achievement, community service, financial need, and other criteria specified by the donor.

Roberta B. Holt Scholarship

Awarded to students graduating from Caroline County Public High Schools.

The Bring Back the Trades Scholarship is dedicated to addressing the skilled trades shortage by providing $1,500 monthly scholarships to students enrolled in post-secondary skilled trades programs across the United States. Founded by a seasoned business owner, the initiative aims to raise awareness and reshape perceptions of trade careers, ensuring that students have the resources to succeed in vital roles that contribute to the nation's future.

Scholarships for High School Seniors

Mid-Shore Community Foundation awards scholarships to high school seniors in Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot Counties, who are planning to attend a college, university, or trade school. In general, scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate academic achievement, community service, financial need, and other criteria specified by the donor.

Otis M. Trice Scholarship

Awarded to students graduating from Dorchester County Public Schools, who are planning to pursue degrees in Education.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Mary Ellen Withrow Scholarship

Marion’s “favorite daughter,” Mary Ellen Withrow, the 40th Treasurer of the United States, created a scholarship fund in 2016 for female students from any Marion County high school, with special consideration for those pursuing the fields of finance or political science. 

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Nancy O. Whitaker Memorial Scholarship

The Nancy O. Whitaker Memorial Scholarship is available to students pursing an education in the field of speech and hearing, including research, treatment, education, and cures for people who suffer from speech and hearing impairments and diseases.

The Whitaker Scholarship is open to high school seniors who have lived in Marion for at least the last two years. 

The ASPCA's Rescue Effect Campaign Grants provide $1.8 million to support animal welfare organizations in the U.S. during a crucial adoption initiative. Eligible non-profits can receive funding based on their intake of adoptable pets and commitment to hold fee-waived adoption days. The program aims to promote responsible pet adoption and community involvement, making a significant impact on animal welfare during the months of August to October.

The NCRG Large Grant, provided by the International Center for Responsible Gaming, supports high-quality research on gambling disorders and responsible gambling. Eligible applicants can request up to $75,000 annually for a maximum of 24 months, totaling $187,500. The grant emphasizes scientific rigor through its advisory board, ensuring only the best proposals receive funding. This initiative aims to advance understanding and treatment of gambling-related issues through peer-reviewed research.

Coral Gables Community Foundation

Led by community leaders, the Coral Gables Community Foundation provides the philanthropic conduit to connect individuals and corporations looking to positively impact the success of the community. Now in its 33rd year, the Foundation has been at the forefront of the evolving needs of Coral Gables while effectively bringing together beneficiaries and benefactors to fund programs with the greatest impact and benefit to “The City Beautiful.”

Fain Scholarship

Royal Caribbean Scholarship offers tuition support for children of Royal Caribbean Corporation employees.

TERM: Scholarships are available for undergraduate studies of one to four years and graduate studies of up to two years.

The Housing for Everyone Grant Competition, part of the 2026 Initiative, aims to support eviction prevention in low-to moderate-income communities. This 20th annual initiative recognizes the destabilizing impact of eviction and displacement on families, which leads to job loss, school disruptions, and health issues. By funding innovative organizations, the competition seeks to provide stability for renters, enabling them to stay in their homes and communities.

The McLaughlin, Delbert & Mary Teaching Scholarship, established by Bill McLaughlin in memory of his parents, supports graduating seniors from the St. Joseph School District pursuing degrees in Education. This fund aids students with a commitment to teaching, weighing financial need alongside academic ability. Managed by the Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri, the scholarship aims to empower future educators and strengthen the community through dedicated teaching professionals.

The Dr. Glenn Neil Love Medical Scholarship, established in 2014, provides annual financial assistance to individuals pursuing medical training and education. It aims to support nontraditional applicants currently employed in healthcare who demonstrate financial need and a commitment to advancing their skills. Priority is given to those seeking additional certifications or training to enhance their expertise in the medical field.

The Blue Horizon Health Fund, managed by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, provides financial assistance for medical expenses to individuals and families in need within specific Connecticut towns. This includes coverage for therapeutic, chiropractic, and surgical care for those who are indigent and helpless, regardless of background. Applications can be submitted by health and social service representatives on behalf of clients, ensuring accessible support for those facing medical challenges.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Norman Withrow Golf Scholarship

The Norman Withrow Golf Scholarship Fund supports students from any Marion County high school who participate in varsity golf to attend the college or university of their choice.

The Beaufort Jasper Water & Sewer Authority Scholarship, established in 2024, offers financial support to students from Beaufort and Jasper Counties, South Carolina. This scholarship is both merit-based and need-based, aiming to assist deserving students in pursuing their post-secondary education. Funded by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, it reflects a commitment to fostering educational opportunities in the region.

Scholarships support aspiring college students who hold the promise of tomorrow’s progress.

Together, our competitive grants and scholarships help our region rise thanks to the vision and generosity of our donors.

Fran Gay Memorial Scholarship Fund

When Fran died in 2000, she left behind not only her son, daughter, and other family members, but also her second “family” at JFK Medical Center. She worked at the hospital for 30 years in positions that included supervisor of Emergency Room, Intensive Care Unit, Coronary Care Unit and as Assistant Director of Nursing, and Risk Manager. Her family established this scholarship to help students pursue careers in the health profession.

The RPAC Fundraising Grants, offered by the National Association of Realtors, support state and local associations in organizing fundraising events aimed at boosting RPAC contributions. These grants require a fundraising goal three times the amount requested, ensuring tangible results. The initiative emphasizes developing detailed fundraising plans that comply with state laws regarding corporate treasury funds. This program is vital for enhancing RPAC participation and advancing property ownership advocacy.