Best Environmental Education Grants in Connecticut

The Enbridge Community Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in North American communities through strategic donations and sponsorships. With funding ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, the grant supports organizations focused on safety, education, environmental stewardship, and Indigenous culture. Enbridge encourages early applications, with decisions typically made within eight weeks. The grant seeks to empower local initiatives that foster community strength, vibrancy, and sustainability.

The STEM Action Grants, offered by the Society for Science, support innovative nonprofit organizations with grants up to $5,000. Launched in 2016, this program has awarded $1.15 million to enhance public understanding of science and increase participation of underrepresented groups in STEM fields. Eligible organizations must be U.S.-based nonprofits focused on STEM education and outreach. Renewals for funding are allowed for up to three years, with additional capacity-building grants available to long-term recipients.

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.

Regional Scholarships

We believe that post-secondary education is key to healthy, resilient, and thriving communities and are pleased to partner with generous community donors to create and offer a variety of scholarship opportunities for local students across the region.

Ragland Bloem Scholarship Fund (Antrim and Kalkaska Counties)

Available to graduating seniors from Antrim or Kalkaska Counties who are planning to pursue education in environmental or related studies.

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.

Kelley Phillips Cox Legacy Scholarship

Awarded to Mid-Shore students, who are planning to pursue degrees in Environmental Science or Marine Biology

About Community Foundation of Henderson County

• Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.
• Vision: Community Foundation of Henderson County is a highly visible, philanthropic leader directed by an engaged and committed board, staffed by qualified employees, empowering donors at all levels to invest in professionally managed charitable funds that address community needs.

Elizabeth DeVilling Environmental Odyssey Scholarship

This scholarship provides support to graduating seniors or graduates of any Henderson County public, private or parochial high school seeking to further their education beyond high school. Recipients of this scholarship must be accepted to an accredited degree granting college or university and be actively pursuing an undergraduate degree in the field of environmental science or a related field. Preference will be given to those who have expressed a desire to pursue work which relates to environmental preservation and/or conservation and have financial need for assistance. Extra-curricular and extra participation in activity relevant to earth sciences/environmental sciences will be given added priority.

With a mission to support education and community well-being, Ecolab Foundation provides Connecticut environmental education nonprofits with up to US $500 annually through its Board Leadership Volunteer Grant. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations where an Ecolab employee or retiree serves on the board may receive support for youth programs, conservation education, and related community initiatives.

August Corso Scholarship Fund

Scholarships shall be awarded to residents of Erie County, Ohio pursuing a post-secondary education. Preference shall be given to students pursuing a degree in Horticulture, Environmental Science or Agricultural Business. Financial need is a consideration for the scholarship award.

Scholarships are available for students planning to attend an accredited nonprofit college or university, or planning to receive licensure, accreditation, or a certificate from a nonprofit vocational or apprenticeship program in the United States.

The scholarship may be renewed for a second, third, and fourth year.

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

Iles Family Conservation Scholarship

The Iles Family Conservation Scholarship was established by Doug and Sandy Iles in memory of Clarence “Buck” Iles. A lifelong passion for conservation balanced with practical application is what Buck Iles stood for. A very avid sportsman, he was actively involved with leadership in the Michigan United Conservation Club and Saginaw Field and Stream, among others.

For more than 20 years, Buck Iles helped establish and operate the Saginaw Field and Stream Club annual scholarship raffle which supported over 40 different scholarships. Buck passed away in 2005 and this scholarship was established to continue the great raffle tradition that now no longer exists.

Doug and Sandy established this scholarship fund in “Dad’s” memory. Recipients should be students with an active interest in environmental issues. Although not limited to, emphasis will be placed on awarding this scholarship to a resident of Saginaw County. A minimum 3.0 GPA and a student who has the need for educational financial support are key determinants.

2026 Veterans and Nature Grant

Supporting the health, well-being, and community connection of America's veterans

The National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) is pleased to announce grant funding supported by the American Medical Association (AMA) to expand access to nature-based experiences that support the health, well-being, and community connection of America's veterans. AMA has partnered with NEEF to bring an evidence-based health perspective to this effort, underscoring the growing body of research linking time in nature to improved physical and mental health outcomes.

Background

A Pew Research Center survey found that roughly one in four veterans say the transition back to civilian life was at least somewhat difficult. This is especially true for those who return home with stress or trauma. The National Alliance on Mental Illness estimates 11-20% of veterans are believed to experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) each year.

Nature offers profound restorative benefits for veterans navigating the challenges of post-service life. Time spent outdoors — whether hiking, fishing, camping, or simply sitting among trees — has been shown by numerous studies to reduce symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression, conditions that affect veterans at disproportionately high rates.

Quieting hypervigilance, allowing space for reflection, fostering camaraderie, and reducing isolation are all mental and physical benefits that be found through outdoor recreation. Using America’s public lands to do so provides a powerful and accessible path forward.

Overview

Through the 2026 Veterans and Nature grant, NEEF aims to expand access to nature-based experiences that support veteran health, well-being, and community connection by

• Providing opportunities for outdoor activities on public land that improve the physical and mental health of veterans
• Increasing veterans’ understanding of the physical and mental health benefits of time in nature

The grant will provide up to $10,000 per grantee for projects on federal, state, local, or nonprofit public lands that address physical and mental health in veteran communities.

Examples of project types include outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, climbing, or fishing; wellness activities, such as forest bathing or meditation; environmental education, such as community science; adaptive programming; and conservation volunteering. Projects are not limited to those listed here.

The Tribal Wildlife Grants (TWG) program, offered by the US Department of the Interior's Fish and Wildlife Service, provides vital technical and financial assistance to federally recognized Tribes. This funding supports various conservation activities, including habitat protection, species monitoring, and wildlife management, helping to preserve both culturally significant species and ecosystems. TWG grants empower Tribes to implement their conservation priorities effectively and sustainably.

The Balcueva Family Memorial Scholarship, established in 1998, honors the memory of four sons lost to congenital heart defects. This scholarship supports students pursuing environmental sciences, reflecting the family's commitment to environmental stewardship. With awards ranging from $500 to $4,000, it aims to inspire future generations to protect our natural resources. Applicants must be Saginaw County residents with a minimum 3.0 GPA, enrolled full-time in undergraduate studies. This initiative reflects the community's values and dedication to environmental preservation.

Beatrice T. And Virgil D. Gutierrez Legacy Scholarship

The Beatrice T. Gutierrez and Virgil D. Gutierrez Legacy Scholarship was established in 2018 by the children of Beatrice and Virgil Gutierrez. Mr. and Mrs. Gutierrez devoted their lives to teaching in Taos Public Schools.

The scholarship will be available to seniors graduating from High Schools in Taos County, with a preference to those students who intend to pursue studies in mathematics, education or science (including but not limited to social, biological and environmental sciences) by attending a 4 year college or university with an overall goal of providing service to their family and/or community upon graduation. The 4 year institution award is up to $14,000, paid out across 4 years if a 3.0 GPA is maintained.

The scholarship will also be available to seniors graduating from High Schools in Taos County, with a preference to those students who intend to pursue a 2-year vocational program with an overall goal of providing service to their family and/or community upon graduation. The 2 year institution award is up to $4,000, paid out across 2 years.

The Community Foundation of Marquette County distributes over $130,000 annually in scholarships to benefit aspiring students in Marquette County.

Negaunee Environmental Scholarship Fund

Provides financial assistance for students who attend Negaunee Public Schools and are pursuing a career in an environmental related field, or as the Foundation may determine. 

Distribution Process

• CFMC scholarship recipients will be contacted in June requesting student enrollment verification
• Scholarships can only be distributed once student’s information is received
• Scholarships will be distributed to the college/school/university indicated by student
• The scholarship must be used for tuition and fees required for the enrollment or attendance of the student at a qualifying educational institution; fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for courses of instruction at such an educational institution; and room and board, within the first semester of first year of students enrollment
• That year’s recipient must claim the scholarship within that fiscal year to be distributed (by 12/31/xx)

The Community Foundation of Carroll County supports nearly 70 academic, sports, special circumstances, and 4-H scholarships. Search scholarships by name, or sort by application type.

Legacy Septic and Excavation Scholarships

The purpose of the Legacy Septic and Excavation Scholarships is to provide scholarships for current students of Winter’s Mill High School, Manchester Valley High School, Westminster High School and Carroll County Career and Technology Center who have an interest in the environment and who meet the eligibility requirements set up for this scholarship.

The Future Energy Leaders Scholarship, offered by the Delaware Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Sussex County high schools pursuing two or four-year degrees. Awardees receive $2,500 annually for four years, contingent on maintaining enrollment and demonstrating financial need. With a record $850,000 awarded to 245 students for the 2024-2025 school year, this scholarship aims to expand educational opportunities and equity within the community.

Cherokee Nation Foundation

The Cherokee Nation Foundation is a nonprofit organization serving the Cherokee Nation, a federally recognized tribe of more than 470,000 citizens. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities to Cherokee students so they can reach their full potential. The Cherokee Nation Foundation is a tax-exempt charitable organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Scholarships

Cherokee Nation Foundation offers a diverse range of scholarships to help reverse the trend of rising student debt. Students may receive up to two CNF scholarships per academic year. All opportunities are reserved for Cherokee Nation citizens, unless otherwise noted in the description.

Charles Alan Beauchamp Scholarship

Applicant must be an undergraduate student majoring in an approved environmental field with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Applicant must have completed different areas of volunteer service. This is a one-year scholarship reserved for Cherokee Nation citizens residing within the Cherokee Nation jurisdictional area.

The Grand Haven Offshore Challenge Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports students pursuing studies in natural resources, including fisheries and wildlife. This scholarship is available for applicants attending any public or private college or university. The fund was established to honor community contributions towards environmental preservation and is awarded based on academic merit and financial need. Apply once for all scholarships you may qualify for to streamline your application process.

The Larson-Veneklasen Outdoor Education Scholarship, established by Ken Larson and Diane Veneklasen, supports Tri-Cities residents pursuing outdoor educational experiences. Inspired by the Outward Bound philosophy, it aims to foster character development and self-discovery through adventure. Applicants can access multiple foundation scholarships with a single application. Required documents include transcripts and any additional materials specified for specific scholarships. Notably, financial need is not a priority, and high school seniors are not restricted from applying.

The Marjorie M. Hendricks Environmental Education Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports Tri-Cities area residents pursuing a degree in environmental science. Established in memory of Marjorie Hendricks, a dedicated environmentalist, this scholarship prioritizes students with financial need and those attending GVSU or Aquinas College. Applicants must submit academic transcripts and other required documents to be considered for this competitive award, which honors Marjorie's significant contributions to environmental conservation.

The Marvin R. and Pearl E. Patterson Family Fund Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports students aspiring to study graphic or fine arts, as well as those interested in environmental sciences. Open to high school graduates from the Tri-Cities area, this scholarship considers leadership, community involvement, and academic achievements, although financial need is not a requirement. Applicants must provide transcripts and relevant documents to qualify for this opportunity.

The West Michigan Nursery and Landscape Association Scholarship, established in 2001, supports students from Ottawa, Oceana, Newaygo, Muskegon, or Allegan County pursuing careers in horticulture or the green industry. Administered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, awards consider financial need and academic achievement. Applicants, including high school seniors and college students, must submit transcripts and additional required documents. This scholarship aims to foster education and partnerships within West Michigan's green industry.

Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation

Vision: We envision a vibrant, prosperous northern Chautauqua community, rich in opportunity today and tomorrow.

Our Mission

To realize our vision we focus on:

• strategic and responsive grant making
• encouraging local philanthropy and building permanent endowments for the future
• actively serving as a community leader and partner for the benefit and enrichment in our community.

Scholarships

Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation proudly manages over 200 individual scholarship funds,

Terence J. Centner Agricultural and Environmental 4-H Scholarship

The Terence J. Centner Agricultural and Environmental 4-H Scholarship benefits student that participated in 4-H for a minimum of 3 years and completed an outstanding agricultural or environmental project.

This fund is established in memory of Harry E. and Mary Ellen Centner to honor their dedication and hard work on their family farm in the Town of Dunkirk and their leadership activities in the Chautauqua County 4-H Program.

NCCF awards more than $530,000 in scholarships a year. Scholarships and awards are made possible by NCCF Funds, established by generous individuals and families. 

Valerie Rose Pinnette Memorial Scholarship Fund

Award Average:

• $1350

Established by Ed and Rosalie Pinnette in memory of their daughter, Valerie. This scholarship is awarded to a graduating high school student who resides in and attends school in NCCF's 20-town service area. Preference is given to students pursuing a degree in environmental sciences.

Stanislaus Community Foundation provides scholarship opportunities for students in order to help them achieve their educational and career goals. We believe that by investing in our students, we are investing in a brighter future for Stanislaus. 

Turlock Irrigation District Energy Scholarship

Open to high school seniors attending a high school within the TID District territory planning to pursue a career in the Energy Utility Sector. (i.e. Engineering, Environmental Science, Electrical, Lineman etc.). Must plan to attend an accredited trade school or college/university and demonstrate financial need. The household must be a TID customer.

Award Amount:

• $2,500

The Fiscal Year 2027 National Sea Grant College Program Dean John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship offers an opportunity for students to engage in marine policy through a fellowship funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). With anticipated funding for at least 35 applications, each receiving $97,200, this program encourages applicants to connect with their local Sea Grant program for support. Early registration with SAM.gov, Grants.gov, and eRA Commons is crucial for eligibility.

Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors. Applications are accepted from mid-November until mid-March. Scholarship award recipients will be announced at the high school awards ceremony. 

R.E.S.C.U.E. Benjamin B. Stone Memorial Scholarship

Established by the environmental organization “Return Susquehanna County Under Ecology” to recognize Benjamin Stone. Two college scholarships are awarded each year and are available to seniors from all of the high schools in Susquehanna County and from Honesdale, Wallenpaupack Area, and Western Wayne High Schools in Wayne County.   

Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors. Applications are accepted from mid-November until mid-March. Scholarship award recipients will be announced at the high school awards ceremony. 

Van Cott Family Memorial Scholarship

Established in memory of Kermit Van Cott and his son Forrest to provide tuition assistance to a graduating Senior from one of the High Schools in Susquehanna County, with priority given to Blue Ridge, who will major in Landscape Architecture, Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Horticulture, Botany, Forestry, or Agriculture and who will matriculate at college or a post-secondary degree program.