Best Grants for New Nonprofits in Connecticut

The Bauer Trust Fund Grant supports charitable organizations benefiting blind or handicapped persons. Established by Anthony F. Bauer, it aims to provide lasting support for those in need. To be eligible, organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt and primarily operate in Connecticut. The fund does not support general operating costs, endowments, individuals, or political activities. This initiative reflects Mr. Bauer's legacy of generosity and commitment to aiding vulnerable communities.

The Ruth M. and Adolph J. Betterini Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports graduating seniors from Berlin and New Britain High Schools. Eligible students must maintain at least a C+ average and intend to pursue a bachelor's degree in engineering or a medical field. Preference is given to those demonstrating financial need and good citizenship, ensuring that motivated individuals can further their education and contribute positively to their communities.

The New Britain-Berlin Rotary Club Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports graduating seniors from local high schools, especially INTERACT Club members. This scholarship aims to promote educational attainment and community engagement, assisting students in pursuing further education or technical training that fosters personal growth and career success. By investing in youth leadership and service, it encourages a vibrant community and strengthens the region's educational landscape.

The Lillian and Larry Goodman Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing Jewish life in the U.S. and Israel, addressing drug abuse, and combating hunger. Established in 1994, the foundation supports various charitable organizations, prioritizing the preservation of Jewish culture and child welfare. It funds programs in Israel, particularly in Be'er Sheva, and aims to strengthen communities in Chicago and beyond. The foundation emphasizes mental health, substance abuse prevention, and food security initiatives.

The Joan & Bob Rutman Scholarship, established in 2001 by longtime New London residents, aims to support graduating high school seniors from various Connecticut towns in pursuing four-year degrees. With an approximate award of $4,000, this scholarship reflects the Rutmans' commitment to giving back to their community. Financial need is taken into consideration, ensuring that deserving students receive the assistance they need to further their education and build successful careers.

The McKernon Scholarship, offered by the St. Croix Valley Foundation, supports financial need-based students from Pierce County, particularly targeting graduates of Elmwood High School and non-traditional learners pursuing their first degree. The Foundation, a prominent philanthropic organization, aims to foster local impact through generous donations, having facilitated over $100 million in grants since its establishment in 1995. This scholarship embodies their mission to enhance community prosperity and empower individuals through education.

The McMichael Family Scholarship, administered by the Crown Point Community Foundation, supports women over 21 who are residents of Crown Point, IN. This non-renewable scholarship is designed for college students and adult learners, providing financial assistance to help meet various educational needs. The foundation manages over 80 scholarship funds, tailoring support to the specific criteria set by generous donors, thereby enriching the quality of life in South Lake County.

The BACKstage Grant Fall 2025, offered by the United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT), provides funding for secondary education theatre teachers to enhance their professional development. Grants support various expenses, including workshop registrations, travel, and educational supplies. Eligible applicants must be secondary school educators teaching theatre-related subjects, and all funded activities must be completed within a year. This initiative fosters growth and innovation in the performing arts community.

The Harold Dean Wade Memorial Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Abilene, honors a dedicated Christian educator who believed in the transformative power of education. This scholarship supports graduating seniors from Texas and Oklahoma who plan to attend Christian colleges or universities full-time. Applicants must rank in the top 15% of their class, ensuring that deserving students continue to pursue their academic dreams while upholding Harold's legacy of service and education.

The Gilbert Cook Memorial Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Abilene, honors Gilbert Cook, a devoted community leader and philanthropist. This scholarship aims to support graduating seniors from local high schools planning to attend accredited colleges or universities. Through this initiative, the foundation continues its mission of fostering educational opportunities and empowering students to achieve their dreams, thereby contributing to a thriving Abilene community.

The Duluth Building & Construction Trades Council Scholarship Fund provides $2,500 for one year to eligible applicants. To qualify, students must have a parent or legal guardian who is a member of one of the 17 unions affiliated with the council and must be graduates of any school within the DSACF service area with a GPA of 2.75 or higher. Preference is given to those pursuing careers in healthcare, but all career paths are encouraged to apply.

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties. In 2025, more than $1,000,000 was awarded to local students to help them achieve their educational dreams.

The Perry Township School Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Perry Township School Memorial Scholarship Fund was established to assist high school graduates or high school seniors who have permanent residency in Perry Township in Carroll County, Ohio or who had a permanent residence on the date they began their post high school education. Applicants must have been accepted at and are planning to enroll, or are currently enrolled, at an accredited college, university, or technical school with at least a two-year course of study to pursue further education.

Amount:

• Varies. Minimum $500.

Renewable:

• Yes

The Jonathan and Barbara Silver Foundation offers a $20,000 grant for writers focusing on sculpture, encouraging diverse voices in this field. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, or hold an O-1 visa, and have published work within the last five years. The grant aims to support fresh perspectives on the history and aesthetics of sculpture, promoting artistic growth and innovation. Applications are limited to one submission per individual, ensuring a fair opportunity for all.

The Bobo Kochevar Scholarship Fund, under the Boreal Waters Community Foundation, aims to support Rockridge High School graduates pursuing post-secondary education. This fund empowers students to achieve their academic goals in vocational, technical, or four-year college programs, fostering community development across northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin. By investing in the education of local youth, the scholarship contributes to vibrant, sustainable communities and supports initiatives that enhance educational opportunities and cultural preservation.

The Dr. Carolyn Ghazal Dental Assistant Scholarships, offered by the Pacific Dental Services Foundation, provide financial aid of up to $5,000 for eligible dental assistant students. Applicants must be over 18, U.S. citizens or legal residents, and enrolled in a qualifying program. The scholarship emphasizes mentorship and training, supporting the next generation of dental assistants. Awards are based on financial need and application quality, with multiple cycles each year to support aspiring professionals.

The Catherine Aileen Smith-Jones Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, supports graduating high school seniors who are members of Holy Family Catholic Church and plan to attend an accredited four-year college or university in the United States. This scholarship honors Cathy Smith-Jones, who valued community, resilience, and the gift of life, leaving a lasting legacy through her organ donations and commitment to helping others.

The Ashley and Sarah Abel Memorial Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Abilene, honors two sisters who cherished their bond and creativity. Designed for graduates or undergraduates from Region 14 high schools pursuing careers in English, literature, or communications, this scholarship reflects the sisters' dedication to education and artistic expression. It aims to support students in achieving their college dreams, continuing the legacy of Ashley and Sara Abel's passion for learning and community involvement.

The American Academy of Optometry Foundation

The American Academy of Optometry (AAOF) is an association of optometric professionals who strive to stay at the top of their field. You will find like-minded colleagues within the American Academy of Optometry, an organization committed to promoting the art and science of vision care through lifelong learning.

The Academy’s membership is comprised of optometrists, vision scientists, and other qualified professionals who have committed themselves to the rigorous process required to achieve its prestigious designation, Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry (FAAO).

For more than a century, the Academy has provided Fellows access to the best minds in optometry, vision science, research, and more. Today’s Fellows welcome the opportunity to attend the Academy’s premiere event, its annual meeting. Other members include students, residents, and Candidates for Fellowship.

Each fall attendees from around the world gather for thousands of hours of continuing education and exposure to the most recent research, networking, and latest products and services. Fellows particularly value the opportunity to connect with colleagues and mentors while enjoying an exceptional level of camaraderie.

OD to PhD Scholarship Program

The OD/PhD Scholarship Program funds optometrists receiving a PhD in eye and vision related fields. Examples of appropriate PhD programs include but are not limited to: Vision Science, Physiological Optics, Biomedical Sciences, Public Health, Education (emphasis on Optometric Education), Neuroscience, and Psychology. The program provides vital support to those who will teach and lead the next generation of optometry students and advance the profession’s cutting-edge research.

The American Academy of Optometry Foundation is proud to partner with EssilorLuxottica to offer the OD to PhD Fellowship, an opportunity created to support optometrists who are ready to take the next step into vision science research. This fellowship is open to individuals who have completed or are completing the clinical training required for the optometry degree and who are enrolling in a PhD program in vision science or a related biomedical discipline.

This competitive fellowship provides financial support during the early years of doctoral training. Awardees receive funding in their first year and may receive additional support in the second year based on successful academic and research progress as detailed in their annual progress report.

Note, awardees may receive the fellowship for up to one successive, two-year period. 

The Gilbert W. Mead III Memorial Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports students from Southeastern Connecticut who show talent in the Arts and have financial need. Offering an award of $500, the scholarship aims to assist these students in pursuing their educational goals. Priority is given to those with physical limitations or disabilities, reinforcing the foundation's commitment to inclusive education since 1983.

The Barbara Hodgdon Award, presented by the Shakespeare Association of America (SAA), honors exceptional scholarship in the field of Shakespeare and Performance. Established in memory of Barbara Hodgdon, this award encourages innovative research across various media and time periods related to Shakespeare's work. Eligible submissions must be authored by SAA members and published two years prior to the award presentation. This recognition promotes new discussions and insights within the realm of Shakespearean performance studies.

The MacDonald/Hjerpe Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports graduating seniors from New Britain, Plainville, and Farmington High Schools. Eligible applicants must demonstrate academic achievement with a minimum GPA of C+, exhibit financial need, and have clear educational goals. Preference is given to those pursuing careers in sciences, education, or human services and who will not receive substantial other scholarships. This award aims to help deserving students overcome financial barriers.

The Hearld and Marge Ambler Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides two $6,000 awards to undergraduate students in their third, fourth, or fifth year pursuing a Business major, with a preference for Accounting. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 2.75, demonstrate financial need, and be employed while studying at an accredited four-year institution in Missouri or a contiguous state. Required application materials include a transcript, essay, letter of recommendation, and a summary of community service.

The Frances H. Ducci Scholarship, offered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from public high schools within NCCF's 20-town service area. With awards ranging from $500 to $2,500, this scholarship aims to assist local students in pursuing their academic goals. The foundation is dedicated to enhancing community wellbeing through thoughtful grant-making and scholarship opportunities that address local needs.

The Crooked Stick Endowed Scholarship, established by Crooked Stick Golf Club, aims to support students from Central Indiana pursuing post-secondary education with a strong interest in golf. Funded by the Hamilton County Community Foundation, this scholarship emphasizes academic promise, character, and financial need, ensuring that recipients are well-rounded individuals dedicated to their education and the sport they love. This initiative reflects a commitment to fostering talent in the golfing community.

The Donald F. and Norma K. Mougenot Scholarship, administered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from public high schools within NCCF’s 20-town service area. With an average award of $2,000, preference is given to past graduates of St. Peter/St. Francis School. This scholarship aims to assist students pursuing their academic goals, fostering community growth and educational advancement.

The Cooney Scholarship, established by Melissa Cooney through the Community Foundation for McHenry County, honors her parents' values of community service. It supports students from Woodstock, Illinois, who have demonstrated involvement with local nonprofit organizations. This scholarship aims to empower those who embody a spirit of giving back, offering financial assistance to further their education and strengthen their commitment to community service.

The William P. and Janet C. McCormack Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports high school seniors from New Britain or Berlin who excel academically, ranking in the top 20% of their class. Eligible students must pursue a bachelor’s degree at an accredited institution and demonstrate commitment to community service. This scholarship also considers work experience and financial need, requiring a personal essay to highlight the applicant's achievements and aspirations.