Best Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits in Connecticut

The Core State Injury Prevention Program (Core SIPP) aims to enhance public health infrastructure and partnerships to prevent unintentional injuries through data-driven strategies. Focusing on key areas such as traumatic brain injury, falls among older adults, and drowning, it seeks to improve community safety by strengthening data use and fostering collaborations. This initiative supports states in identifying local injury concerns, thus promoting evidence-based prevention approaches and increasing the capacity for sustained public health actions.

The NIDDK High Risk Multi-Center Clinical Study Implementation Planning Cooperative Agreements (U34) aims to support high-risk, multi-center clinical studies by facilitating early peer review and assessment of study designs. This program helps in the development of necessary operational documents and essential elements for conducting hypothesis-driven studies focused on diseases relevant to NIDDK. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time, and consulting with NIDDK staff is strongly encouraged.

The RMEF Grant Program lies at the core of advancing our mission.

RMEF established the program in 1986 to provide financial and logistical support to projects that align with our priorities and goals. Grant funds raised by RMEF members, volunteers and generous donors from across the country translate into significantly more conservation accomplishment when matched with partner funds. The RMEF Grant Program also aims to build recognition for RMEF’s work, grow engagement, and boost local fundraising efforts.

Governed by clear guidelines and criteria, the RMEF Grant Program seeks to foster meaningful collaborations and long-term impacts in the conservation of natural resources and outdoor traditions. Grant project partners include federal, state, local, and tribal wildlife and land management agencies, private landowners and local stakeholders, sportsmen and women, and conservation organizations, universities, foundations and the outdoor industry. Eligible projects primarily focus on habitat stewardship, land conservation and access, wildlife management, and hunting heritage.

We support organizations recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as a 501(c)3 entity, federal, state, local, or tribal government entities, sportsmen’s organizations, or educational institutions. All applicants must have a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) issued by the IRS. RMEF does not offer grants to individuals.

Hunting Heritage

Ensuring our hunting heritage is central to RMEF’s mission. Hunters—America’s first conservationists—remain the driving force behind wildlife conservation. RMEF funds hunting heritage and conservation education to help more people experience the outdoors, learn the skills of hunting, and carry forward the traditions that define big game country, including outdoor skills programs/events, hunter or conservation outreach, mentored hunts, and other similar activities.

The Harris and Frances Block Foundation, established in 2001, supports small grassroots organizations focused on social and environmental justice. They prioritize equitable solutions and sustainable community development, funding initiatives related to environmental education, justice, and food security. Grants are available to non-profit, tax-exempt organizations in specific geographical areas including Vermont, North Carolina, Virginia, and New York City, excluding funding for lobbying, land acquisition, and scholarships.

The Conservation Practitioner Award, presented by the American Ornithological Society, recognizes dedicated professionals at any career stage who address avian conservation issues at local or regional levels. This award includes a certificate and a $1,000 honorarium, acknowledging the critical work of individuals or groups in government or non-government organizations. The AOS aims to promote ethical standards and support a diverse community of ornithologists committed to bird conservation.

The Equity Fund Grant, initiated by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, aims to empower BIPOC-led organizations and individuals through financial support. This initiative focuses on racial and social justice, economic empowerment, educational equity, health equity, and leadership development. It prioritizes applications from Black, Indigenous, and communities of color, ensuring that underserved voices are included in decision-making processes. With an average grant amount of $10K, the fund endeavors to foster impactful community engagement and support.

The Udall Undergraduate Scholarship, awarded by the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation, supports future leaders in environmental, tribal public policy, and health care fields. With 55 scholarships of $7,000 each expected in 2025, this highly competitive program requires students to participate in their schools' internal competitions. Scholars benefit from networking opportunities and access to the Udall Alumni Network, fostering collaboration and growth in their respective fields.

Farmington Bank Community Foundation

The Farmington Bank Community Foundation, which continues the legacy of the former Farmington Bank, provides financial support to non-profit organizations and community programs improve economic viability and well-being of residents and communities. The Foundation’s average grant size is generally around $8,000 with a maximum grant size of $20,000. The Foundation may make larger grants in special circumstances. The Foundation awards grants over a one-year period and generally an organization is eligible to receive one grant each calendar year. The Foundation generally awards flexible grants for organizations and programs that are aligned with our mission and priorities. This may take the form of ongoing program support, or one-time start-up costs (including capital). In some circumstances, the Foundation may consider general support for an organization’s core work. This is reserved for nonprofits with a proven track record of impact and a history of Foundation support.

Cycle One

The Foundation accepts applications from organizations working in the SURVIVING part of the economic mobility continuum to provide a social safety net and stability to individuals and families. This includes access to food, housing, health, mental health and other basic human needs. Grants are made across our geographic focus.

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 Reboot Representation Tech Coalition aims to significantly increase the number of Black, Latina, and Native American women earning computing bachelor’s degrees. They invite qualified organizations to submit grant inquiries focused on recruiting and retaining these women in tech. Programs that leverage existing resources and operate across multiple regions will be prioritized, and the Coalition seeks initiatives backed by substantial research and community trust.

About NCRC

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) is a nationwide network of nearly 800 organizations and champions working for a Just Economy, where all Americans can build wealth and provide for their families with stability and dignity.

Our vision: To solve America’s historic racial and socio-economic wealth, income and opportunity divides. This vision is the foundation of the Just Economy Pledge.

Fellowship for Equitable Development

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition matches top-level graduate degree students with premiere community development organizations.

NCRC is looking for fellowship projects that move the needle on housing, small business development, and workforce development. Projects may directly result in community outcomes in these focus areas, or involve work with community members to create plans or project pipelines that will solve local issues in these areas.

The NCRC Fellowship cultivates the next generation of community development leaders and empowers them to tackle the issues of tomorrow. The community development sector will face significant challenges in the coming decades from climate change, widening wealth gaps, food insecurities, extreme housing shortages and other needs. These challenges will disproportionately impact low-wealth communities and communities of color. Therefore, it is NCRC’s intention and pledge to uphold the values of community empowerment in the fellowship program.

Interested students and host organizations must apply for this fellowship opportunity.

Program Benefits for Student Fellows Include:

• High-quality training and support from regional leaders in the nonprofit, government, planning and community development fields
• A $20,000 stipend for the eight-month, part-time (20-hours per week) fellowship
• The opportunity to meet with leaders in the nonprofit, government, planning and community development fields
• Academic credit, in accordance with the policies of the Fellows’ respective universities
• Complimentary admission to the NCRC annual Just Economy Conference

Program Benefits for Host Organizations Include:

• Fresh, innovative talent to help advance organizational mission
• The opportunity to help shape the next generation of community development leaders
• Participation in a fellowship program at little to no cost

The Process

1. NCRC Members Apply; 2. NCRC Selects Member Projects; 3. Students Apply To Selected Projects; 4. Top Student Candidates Interviewed; 5. NCRC & Member Select Student Fellow; 6. NCRC Onboards Member & Student 7. Fellowship Commences

Host Partnerships

Fellowship host partners must be NCRC members. If your organization would like to participate in the Fellowship but is not a member, you can join here and then apply.

Host Requirements

• A compelling project to provide a challenging assignment for fellows with real world application.
• Must commit to a schedule with at least one day per week in office for both fellow and host supervisor.

About NCRC

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) is a nationwide network of nearly 800 organizations and champions working for a Just Economy, where all Americans can build wealth and provide for their families with stability and dignity.

Our vision: To solve America’s historic racial and socio-economic wealth, income and opportunity divides. This vision is the foundation of the Just Economy Pledge.

Fellowship for Equitable Development

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition matches top-level graduate degree students with premiere community development organizations.

NCRC is looking for fellowship projects that move the needle on housing, small business development, and workforce development. Projects may directly result in community outcomes in these focus areas, or involve work with community members to create plans or project pipelines that will solve local issues in these areas.

The NCRC Fellowship cultivates the next generation of community development leaders and empowers them to tackle the issues of tomorrow. The community development sector will face significant challenges in the coming decades from climate change, widening wealth gaps, food insecurities, extreme housing shortages and other needs. These challenges will disproportionately impact low-wealth communities and communities of color. Therefore, it is NCRC’s intention and pledge to uphold the values of community empowerment in the fellowship program.

Interested students and host organizations must apply for this fellowship opportunity.

Program Benefits for Student Fellows Include:

• High-quality training and support from regional leaders in the nonprofit, government, planning and community development fields
• A $20,000 stipend for the eight-month, part-time (20-hours per week) fellowship
• The opportunity to meet with leaders in the nonprofit, government, planning and community development fields
• Academic credit, in accordance with the policies of the Fellows’ respective universities
• Complimentary admission to the NCRC annual Just Economy Conference

Program Benefits for Host Organizations Include:

• Fresh, innovative talent to help advance organizational mission
• The opportunity to help shape the next generation of community development leaders
• Participation in a fellowship program at little to no cost

The Process

1. NCRC Members Apply; 2. NCRC Selects Member Projects; 3. Students Apply To Selected Projects; 4. Top Student Candidates Interviewed; 5. NCRC & Member Select Student Fellow; 6. NCRC Onboards Member & Student 7. Fellowship Commences

Student Fellow Applications

Fellow applications will open for eligible students once host projects have been reviewed and finalists selected. Students will apply to be considered for a specific host project. Top student candidates will be interviewed by NCRC as well as the host organization.

Fellow Requirements

• Must provide documentation confirming active enrollment (i.e. Letter of Enrollment from Registrar or transcript)
• Must commit to fellowship for full Period of September 14, 2026-May 14, 2027 academic school year
• Must commit to a 20 hour/week fellowship
• Must commit to a schedule with at least one day per week in-office of host organization

Brooks Brothers, founded in 1818, is committed to social responsibility through its donation program. The company partners with local and national non-profits focused on health issues and education. They seek to enhance community well-being while maintaining a commitment to inclusivity. Notably, they do not support organizations that discriminate based on protected categories. Their donations are aimed at fostering positive change in society, reflecting their belief in the importance of community engagement.

Theresa Alessandra Russo Foundation Inc

The Theresa Foundation honors the memory of Theresa Alessandra Russo by touching the lives of children with special needs and their families. The Foundation fosters each child’s unique abilities by supporting programs focusing on art, music, dance, drama, and recreation.

The Theresa Foundation has a vision of the world where artistic expression and physical recreation are just as important to adults as they are to children. We believe in a world where every child, regardless of ability or challenging conditions, is free to communicate through and participate in every art or recreational activity. A society without art is a society without soul. Art enables us to express our inner thoughts, fears, joys, and sadness.  

The Theresa Foundation Grant Program

The Theresa Foundation Grant Program is committed to providing financial support for programs in art, music, dance, drama, or recreation that are designed specifically for children with special needs in order to ensure that no one is excluded from these activities. 

We believe that every individual should have the opportunity to participate in art, music, dance, drama or recreation if they so choose. Our grant program works to provide direct funding for the success of these activities, while also promoting an environment of acceptance and inclusiveness where all can take part without judgment or fear. 

As of 2026, the Theresa Foundation has provided over $3,300,000 in grant funding for over 200 programs in 29 states throughout the country and 4 international grants. With your help we can continue to make a difference in the lives of those with special needs by providing them access to enriching experiences that would otherwise be out of reach. 

The FY 2026 Continuation of Solicitation for the Office of Science Financial Assistance Program invites applications for research in various domains, including Advanced Scientific Computing and Biological Research. This ongoing opportunity from the Department of Energy will remain available until September 30, 2026. Eligible projects must align with SC's mission, supporting innovative research that advances scientific knowledge and energy solutions.

The Office of National Drug Control Policy is inviting applications to create a surveillance system that connects drug toxicology testing results and interviews from emergency department patients with the illicit drug supply in various U.S. communities. This project aims to enhance drug consumption surveillance, identify deficiencies in current drug testing methods, and promote collaboration among public health and safety organizations to effectively tackle the ongoing drug crisis.

The Adtalem Global Education Foundation, established in 2010, is dedicated to enhancing education and community development. Based in Chicago, it focuses on expanding educational access, particularly for underrepresented minorities in the healthcare sector. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that promote economic growth through skills-based workforce development, address healthcare disparities, and increase access to quality education for underserved populations. Its commitment to civic engagement and equality reflects its mission to empower communities.

The Community Connect Grants Program provides financial assistance to eligible applicants aiming to deliver broadband services in rural areas where access is limited. This initiative fosters economic growth and enhances educational, healthcare, and public safety benefits, improving the quality of life in underserved communities. By supporting projects that create better market opportunities and promote equitable access, the program plays a vital role in advancing rural development and addressing environmental justice.

The Environmental/Animal Welfare Grants support initiatives that enhance environmental education and animal welfare in New London County. With grants ranging from $5,000 to $50,000, the program prioritizes projects that promote environmental justice, engage youth, and protect significant habitats. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and governmental agencies serving local communities. The foundation encourages collaborative, evidence-based approaches that address systemic inequities and foster positive, long-term change.

The Social Impact Fund - Nationwide Grant supports innovative solutions addressing health care access, food security, and economic empowerment. Funded by the American Heart Association, this grant prioritizes community-led projects from organizations with under $10M in revenue. Eligible entities include both for-profit and nonprofit organizations based in the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Grants can provide up to $250,000 to initiatives that demonstrate measurable impact, fostering sustainable change in health and wellness.

The Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship offers up to $9,500 annually for two years, alongside a paid summer internship at NOAA. This program enhances students' training in oceanic and atmospheric sciences, aiming to increase public understanding and support for environmental stewardship. Eligible students must be U.S. citizens, enrolled full-time in relevant disciplines, and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. The experience fosters valuable skills and networks, with 100% of alumni recommending the scholarship.

The Natural History Research Experiences (NHRE) is a prestigious 10-week summer internship program at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History. It offers undergraduates the chance to engage in independent research across various disciplines including Earth Science and Anthropology. Participants receive a stipend of $8250, travel support, and free housing, while benefiting from mentorship by leading scientists. This program aims to cultivate future leaders in natural history research.

The Harry Chapin Foundation grants support 501(c)(3) organizations in the U.S. focused on self-sufficiency. They prioritize grassroots programs in the arts, community education, and environmental sectors, with a budget cap of $750,000. Grants are typically awarded for one year, with renewals requiring a new proposal each year. Organizations using fiscal agents or applying for individuals are not eligible. The foundation is dedicated to improving lives through sustainable initiatives.

Tyson Foods invites sponsorship proposals that reflect its core values and contribute to community welfare, particularly in Springdale, Arkansas, and Dakota Dunes, South Dakota. Proposals should demonstrate clear community benefits, visibility of the event, and outline how funds will be utilized effectively. Organizations are encouraged to apply if they align with Tyson's mission of integrity and stewardship, ensuring that funding can support primary objectives while considering tax-deductible options.

About the Foundation

The MxCC Foundation Supports CT State Middlesex and Meriden Campuses

The purpose of the Middlesex Community College Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) public charity incorporated in Connecticut, is twofold:

• To support the college and its students by receiving, managing, and distributing funds for scholarships and other educational purposes, and
• To generate and strengthen communication and collaboration between the college and the Foundation and business, industry, professional, civic, and educational leaders in the communities served by the college—all of Middlesex County, Meriden and Wallingford in New Haven County, and Rocky Hill in Hartford County.

Removing financial obstacles that bar or inhibit student access to education is the Foundation’s driving force. Scholarships address not only the growing need for financial assistance, but also our perennial wish to celebrate student achievement.

The MxCC Foundation’s charge is to develop external resources that contribute support to student and academic programs, as well as efforts that foster student success.

Tom Melbert Annual Award in Humanities

Recipient must be enrolled in English studies or another humanities area and have an interest/love of literature, painting, the arts or travel.

The KTGF Fellowship Programs, funded by the Klingenstein Third Generation Foundation, offer $100,000 over two years to support post-doctoral and junior faculty research on ADHD and depression in children, particularly from low-income and under-resourced backgrounds. This initiative aims to foster promising early-career scientists while producing impactful research that benefits affected children and families. Applications are accepted from September 1 to December 15, with specific eligibility criteria outlined for candidates.

The William Brewster Memorial Award, awarded by the American Ornithological Society, recognizes exemplary contributions to ornithological science through a significant body of work on Western Hemisphere birds published in the last decade. This prestigious award honors the legacy of William Brewster, a founding member of the American Ornithologists' Union, and includes a medal and honorarium funded by the William Brewster Memorial Fund. Nominations are open to all, fostering diversity in ornithology.