Best Foundation Grants for Nonprofits in Connecticut

The Alaska Community Foundation

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives.

Scholarships at ACF

Each year, more than 60 scholarships are available to Alaska students—and it all starts with one simple application. With one login and one application, you’ll be considered for every scholarship you may be eligible for. Whether you’re taking your first step toward college, training for a career, or continuing your education, these scholarships are here to help carry you forward, backed by donors who believe in Alaska’s students and the futures they’re building. 

Art Jess Scholarship Fund

The Art Jess Scholarship is open to Alaska residents who are Alaska Native, American Indian, and/or Hawaiian Native, and is intended to assist Alaskans with their post-secondary education, including but not limited to trade schools, vocational schools, undergraduate and graduate schools, community colleges and distance learning. Applicants may be full or part-time students.

Art Jess was a champion for the spiritual and social advancement of humanity in general and of Native American people in particular. According to his daughter, “Art believed in the best of people, that the world is a beautiful place, that all is well, and that everything will work out.” Art was a lifelong learner and believed that a person never really graduated until life was over.

The David Roy Kovacs Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports local high school graduates from New Britain who plan to pursue further education at community colleges, trade schools, or vocational schools. This scholarship emphasizes financial need as determined by the FAFSA and is intended to help students acquire the skills necessary for career success and economic independence, fostering a brighter future for the community.

The Mary Means Leadership Award, introduced by Main Street America in 2019, celebrates outstanding leaders in local Main Street organizations. This annual award recognizes the vital role of leadership in revitalizing historic downtowns and enhancing community life. Nominees must be active members of Main Street America, showcasing their commitment to community, innovation, and collaboration. The award highlights the importance of diverse leadership in advancing local economic development and preserving cultural heritage across the nation.

The Inserra Scholarships, provided by the UNICO Foundation, aim to support students of Italian descent pursuing higher education. Two scholarships of $2,500 each are awarded annually to eligible candidates who are U.S. citizens attending accredited colleges or universities full-time. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and continue their studies in the 2026-2027 academic year. This initiative reflects UNICO's commitment to empowering the Italian American community through education.

This funding opportunity aims to enhance cancer research among American Indian and Alaska Native populations, focusing on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment in rural areas. The initiative seeks to reduce cancer incidence and mortality rates while ensuring that research findings significantly improve health outcomes for these communities. Eligible organizations are invited to apply, with applications undergoing rigorous peer review to ensure only the most promising projects receive funding.

The Maria and Paolo Alessio Southern Italy Scholarship, offered by the UNICO Foundation, supports students of Southern Italian descent pursuing a degree at an accredited U.S. college or university. Valued at $2,500, this scholarship aims to empower students who demonstrate academic excellence with a minimum GPA of 2.7. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens and can be Freshmen, Sophomores, or Juniors, continuing their studies in the 2026-2027 academic year.

The UNICO Foundation Inc. offers the Cancer Research & Prevention Grant to support vital research projects addressing various types of cancer, including colon, breast, and prostate cancer. Established in 1962, this non-profit organization aims to enhance lives through charitable contributions and educational initiatives. Grants are exclusively for direct research and preventive measures, ensuring that all funds are utilized effectively. This initiative reflects UNICO's commitment to combating cancer and its impact on individuals and families across the United States.

The Alaska Community Foundation

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives.

Scholarships at ACF

Each year, more than 60 scholarships are available to Alaska students—and it all starts with one simple application. With one login and one application, you’ll be considered for every scholarship you may be eligible for. Whether you’re taking your first step toward college, training for a career, or continuing your education, these scholarships are here to help carry you forward, backed by donors who believe in Alaska’s students and the futures they’re building. 

Brandon C. Reiley Scholarship Fund

Brandon was nothing if not a true adventurer and a friend to all. His laugh was almost always mischievous but also contagious. Brandon was a citizen of the world, living and visiting countless countries and maybe getting into a little trouble along the way. He loved meeting new people and roping them into projects and ideas or connecting them to like minded souls.

This scholarship, established in memory of Brandon C. Reiley, supports Alaskan students pursuing higher education degrees in the fields of science, sustainability, mathematics, education, or aviation. All of these areas were important to Brandon and it is the goal of this scholarship fund to support students with similar interests and goals.

The Alaska Community Foundation

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives.

Scholarships at ACF

Each year, more than 60 scholarships are available to Alaska students—and it all starts with one simple application. With one login and one application, you’ll be considered for every scholarship you may be eligible for. Whether you’re taking your first step toward college, training for a career, or continuing your education, these scholarships are here to help carry you forward, backed by donors who believe in Alaska’s students and the futures they’re building. 

Cael Askin Memorial Scholarship Fund

The donors establish the Cael Askin Memorial Scholarship in memory of their son, Cael (pronounced Kale) who died at age 25 in 2013 as a result of complications of Epilepsy. Cael was diagnosed with Asperger’s while in school and completed high school with a certified diploma utilizing an Individual Education Plan (IEP) through his time in school. The fund is intended to provide scholarships to Kenai students who have had Individualized Educational Plans (IEP’s).

The family of Cael Askin is honored to offer a $1,000 scholarship in his memory to support a graduating high school or home school senior receiving Special Education Services and intends to pursue secondary education or vocational/technical training.

The Alaska Community Foundation

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives.

Scholarships at ACF

Each year, more than 60 scholarships are available to Alaska students—and it all starts with one simple application. With one login and one application, you’ll be considered for every scholarship you may be eligible for. Whether you’re taking your first step toward college, training for a career, or continuing your education, these scholarships are here to help carry you forward, backed by donors who believe in Alaska’s students and the futures they’re building. 

CARTA Scholarship Endowment Fund - Liability

Central Alaska Retired Teachers' Association Scholarship Fund was established to provide financial support for undergraduate and graduate students majoring in education or working towards certifications that will enable them to become teachers or administrators in the public schools.

The David B. Jones Foundation Grant supports educational, research, and charitable initiatives in paleontology within the United States. Established in 1998, it offers various funding types, including one-time, multiyear, and challenge grants, focusing on projects that promote the science of paleontology. Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) organizations aligned with the foundation's mission, prioritizing programs that engage young fossil hunters and public education through museums. The foundation does not fund individual requests or religious organizations.

Civic Education and Civic Participation

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation is pleased to announce a competitive grant opportunity designed to support organizations that seek to engage in nonpartisan civic education and civic participation efforts leading up to the 2026 Midterm and Gubernatorial elections, particularly supporting civically underrepresented residents of the Greater Hartford 29 town region. The Foundation welcomes requests of up to $25,000 for nonpartisan activities implemented through the Spring and Fall of 2026.

This grant opportunity is by invite only. Organizations that received a 2020 Civic Engagement grant or a 2023 or 2024 Civic Engagement and Get Out the Vote grant can reach out to Cynthia Wills, Community Impact Officer, cwills@GreaterHartfordGives.org for access to the application. New applicants must participate in an eligibility interview to be invited to apply. Please contact Senior Community Impact Associate, Tiana Starks, tstarks@GreaterHartfordGives.org to discuss a project’s potential fit and eligibility by March 3.

The Big Country County Medical Society Alliance Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Abilene, supports students from Taylor, Jones, Haskell, or Callahan County pursuing medical degrees. This scholarship encourages local students to enter the medical profession, ensuring a future of healthcare providers rooted in the community. Eligible candidates must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher, must be enrolled or accepted into medical school, and must be residents of the specified counties for at least one year.

The AAP Foundation Fellowship offers financial support for the Institute for Teaching and Learning in the Health Professions, covering full tuition for its Program for Dental School Faculty. This $3,500 fellowship is designed for periodontists pursuing teaching roles, providing essential skills in academic environments. The program includes comprehensive training, interactive learning methods, and mentorship, enabling participants to successfully transition into educational positions and develop their careers as dental educators.

Central Kentucky Community Foundation

Established in 1960 as North Central Education Foundation, Central Kentucky Community Foundation is one of more than 780 community foundations in the United States today. We serve the Lincoln Trail Region, offering our donors and partners a variety of ways to touch our community through philanthropic giving.

James and Betty Holeman Scholarship

The applicant must be a graduating senior from a high school in the Lincoln Trail Region of Kentucky (Breckinridge, Grayson, Hardin, LaRue, Marion, Meade, Nelson, and Washington counties)

Central Kentucky Community Foundation

Established in 1960 as North Central Education Foundation, Central Kentucky Community Foundation is one of more than 780 community foundations in the United States today. We serve the Lincoln Trail Region, offering our donors and partners a variety of ways to touch our community through philanthropic giving.

J.T. Wiglesworth Automotive Scholarship

The applicant must be graduating senior from a school in Hardin County

Central Kentucky Community Foundation

Established in 1960 as North Central Education Foundation, Central Kentucky Community Foundation is one of more than 780 community foundations in the United States today. We serve the Lincoln Trail Region, offering our donors and partners a variety of ways to touch our community through philanthropic giving.

Larry and Carol Kimberlain Scholarship

The applicant must be a graduating senior in Breckinridge, Grayson, Hart, Hardin, LaRue, Marion, Meade, Nelson, or Washington Counties

Central Kentucky Community Foundation

Established in 1960 as North Central Education Foundation, Central Kentucky Community Foundation is one of more than 780 community foundations in the United States today. We serve the Lincoln Trail Region, offering our donors and partners a variety of ways to touch our community through philanthropic giving.

Robin Bohannon Scholarship

Applicant must reside in one of 9 counties served by CKCF (Breckinridge, Grayson, Hardin, Hart, LaRue, Marion, Meade, Nelson, and Washington)

Central Kentucky Community Foundation

Established in 1960 as North Central Education Foundation, Central Kentucky Community Foundation is one of more than 780 community foundations in the United States today. We serve the Lincoln Trail Region, offering our donors and partners a variety of ways to touch our community through philanthropic giving.

Rodney and Elizabeth Grusy Vocational Continuing Education Scholarship

Applicant must reside in Breckinridge, Grayson, Hardin, LaRue, Marion, Meade, Nelson, Washington, Green or Taylor County.

Applicant must a considered a non-traditional student

Central Kentucky Community Foundation

Established in 1960 as North Central Education Foundation, Central Kentucky Community Foundation is one of more than 780 community foundations in the United States today. We serve the Lincoln Trail Region, offering our donors and partners a variety of ways to touch our community through philanthropic giving.

Terry Adler Memorial Scholarship

The applicant must be a graduating senior in Hardin County.

About CKCF

Our Mission

Central Kentucky Community Foundation is the philanthropic focal point in the region, serving as a resource, leader and catalyst to people who wish to improve life in their community.

Available Scholarships

2026 Rylee Marie Razon Memorial Equine Scholarship

The Community Foundation of Abilene, established in 1985, aims to enhance community philanthropy by empowering donors and providing scholarships. The 'Another Step Forward' scholarship assists single parents, like Kaye, who have faced challenges in pursuing education. This initiative supports individuals returning to school, ensuring they receive financial help to achieve their academic goals. By offering these opportunities, the Foundation fosters resilience and growth within the Abilene community.

About the North Valley Health Education Foundation

The North Valley Health Education Foundation (NVHEF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health through education. Since its founding in 1973, the Foundation has supported students pursuing healthcare careers and strengthened communities across Northern California’s North Valley.

NVHEF serves as a regional connector—bringing together students, educators, healthcare institutions, donors, and community leaders who share a commitment to a strong and sustainable healthcare workforce.

Healthcare Scholarships

The North Valley Health Education Foundation (NVHEF) provides scholarships to students pursuing healthcare careers who are committed to serving Northern California communities. Our focus is on strengthening the regional healthcare workforce by supporting students in medical, nursing, and allied health programs.

Each year, NVHEF awards $20,000–$30,000 in healthcare scholarships to students enrolled in accredited programs who demonstrate academic commitment, community connection, and a passion for healthcare service.

Undergraduate Health Professions Scholarship

This application is for students pursuing undergraduate nursing and allied health programs through both 4-year and 2-year educational institutions, including BSN, ADN, and Allied Health pathways.

The Mike and Sharon Bell Scholarship, offered by the Central Kentucky Community Foundation, supports students from Hardin County Water District No. 2 or active members of Glendale Christian Church. Applicants should have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and plan to attend a two- or four-year academic or technical school. This scholarship aims to empower local students to pursue their educational goals and enhance their community involvement.

About the North Valley Health Education Foundation

The North Valley Health Education Foundation (NVHEF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health through education. Since its founding in 1973, the Foundation has supported students pursuing healthcare careers and strengthened communities across Northern California’s North Valley.

NVHEF serves as a regional connector—bringing together students, educators, healthcare institutions, donors, and community leaders who share a commitment to a strong and sustainable healthcare workforce.

Healthcare Scholarships

The North Valley Health Education Foundation (NVHEF) provides scholarships to students pursuing healthcare careers who are committed to serving Northern California communities. Our focus is on strengthening the regional healthcare workforce by supporting students in medical, nursing, and allied health programs.

Each year, NVHEF awards $20,000–$30,000 in healthcare scholarships to students enrolled in accredited programs who demonstrate academic commitment, community connection, and a passion for healthcare service.

Advanced Practice & Medical School Scholarship

This application is for students pursuing Advanced Practice degrees (NP, PA, PT, Dietetics, Pharmacy) or attending medical school.

The Frances M. Culbertson Travel Grant provides essential funding for women from developing countries at the beginning of their psychology careers. This grant helps address the challenges posed by limited resources, allowing recipients to attend international and regional conferences. Eligible applicants must hold a doctoral degree and be within ten years postdoctoral, promoting diversity in the field. Preference is given to those attending key psychology conferences, fostering professional growth and networking opportunities.

About Samaritan Health Services

We’re a nonprofit network of hospitals, clinics and health services caring for more than 290,000 residents in the mid-Willamette Valley and central Oregon Coast and portions of Marion and Polk counties. We work together to provide highly reliable and innovative medicine with world-class quality in a way that supports the values of the communities we serve. That includes caring for all people, regardless of their ability to pay.

Health Education Scholarships

One of the many keys to maintaining a healthy, prosperous community is ensuring a sustainable supply of excellent health care providers. To achieve this, Samaritan Health Services offers numerous scholarships to local students pursuing careers as doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners and physician assistants, as well continuing education or specialty training for current medical providers.

Each year, Samaritan awards more than $25,000 in scholarships for health care education to ensure the communities we serve receive the best care possible well into the future.

Larry A. Mullins, DHA, Scholarship

The Larry A. Mullins, DHA, Endowed Scholarship for Health Care Education scholarship was established in 2003 by the board of directors of Samaritan Health Services, Corvallis, Oregon. It was formed in honor of Dr. Mullins, the President/CEO of Samaritan Health Services (now retired), upon the completion of his doctoral degree in health care administration (DHA) from the Medical University of South Carolina.