Best Grants for New Nonprofits in Connecticut

Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area seeks to ensure that our community thrives today, tomorrow, and forever by building our Community’s Endowment to support high impact charitable projects, helping donors achieve their charitable goals, and leading and partnering in community-level initiatives.

Scholarships

CFHZ awards over $1 million in scholarships each year for students to attend schools of higher education throughout the nation. Our scholarships are possible thanks to the generosity of donors who invest in our community’s future by furthering the education of others.

All Holland/Zeeland area individuals interested in post-secondary education are encouraged to apply for CFHZ scholarships.

The Foundation proudly administers over 100 scholarships, each with unique eligibility criteria that must be met before a candidate can be considered.

Franz Family Scholarship for Families Impacted by Cancer

• Graduating senior who attends public, private, or home school in the primary service area of the Community Foundation
• Accepted into a 2 or 4-year degree program at an accredited post-secondary school (including vocational/technical school) within the United States
• Financial need, a consideration (encouraged to submit the page of the FAFSA Submission Summary showing the Student Aid Index amount)
• A cancer patient or survivor; or a sibling or child of a cancer patient, survivor, or victim

Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area seeks to ensure that our community thrives today, tomorrow, and forever by building our Community’s Endowment to support high impact charitable projects, helping donors achieve their charitable goals, and leading and partnering in community-level initiatives.

Scholarships

CFHZ awards over $1 million in scholarships each year for students to attend schools of higher education throughout the nation. Our scholarships are possible thanks to the generosity of donors who invest in our community’s future by furthering the education of others.

All Holland/Zeeland area individuals interested in post-secondary education are encouraged to apply for CFHZ scholarships.

The Foundation proudly administers over 100 scholarships, each with unique eligibility criteria that must be met before a candidate can be considered.

Franz Family International Adoption Scholarship

• Graduating senior who attends public, private, or home school in the primary service area of the Community Foundation
• Accepted into a 2 or 4-year degree program at an accredited post-secondary school (including vocational/technical school) within the United States
• Financial need, a consideration (encouraged to submit the page of the FAFSA Submission Summary showing the Student Aid Index amount)
• From a family with an internationally adopted child or children (applicants do not have to be adopted themselves but must have at least one sibling who is internationally adopted)

Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area seeks to ensure that our community thrives today, tomorrow, and forever by building our Community’s Endowment to support high impact charitable projects, helping donors achieve their charitable goals, and leading and partnering in community-level initiatives.

Scholarships

CFHZ awards over $1 million in scholarships each year for students to attend schools of higher education throughout the nation. Our scholarships are possible thanks to the generosity of donors who invest in our community’s future by furthering the education of others.

All Holland/Zeeland area individuals interested in post-secondary education are encouraged to apply for CFHZ scholarships.

The Foundation proudly administers over 100 scholarships, each with unique eligibility criteria that must be met before a candidate can be considered.

DeLong and Brower, P.C. Scholarship

• Graduating senior, graduating early college student, or college freshman or sophomore who attends/attended public, private, or home school in the primary service area of the Community Foundation
• Enrolling/enrolled in a 2 or 4-year degree program at an accredited post-secondary school (including vocational/technical school) within the United States
• Financial need (must submit the page of the FAFSA Submission Summary showing the Student Aid Index amount)
• GPA of 3.0 or greater
• Planning to study accounting, finance, or economics
• Potentially renewable for one additional year

The Limited Competition: Basic Instrumentation Grant (BIG) Program offers funding to NIH-supported researchers for purchasing specialized instruments or integrated systems, with minimum awards of $25,000 and maximum awards reaching $350,000. Eligibility is restricted to institutions that have not received significant S10 funding in recent years. This program aims to enhance research capabilities by providing access to essential technology, thereby fostering scientific innovation and collaboration within the NIH community.

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,

Roger Testrake Memorial Scholarship

The Roger Testrake Memorial Scholarship benefits students residing in Ripley, NY who plan on continuing their education after high school and have a relative who has served in the military.

Roger Testrake was instrumental in building a monument in Ripley to honor all veterans. This scholarship was renamed to honor him for all his perseverance, dedication and hard work on behalf of the Ripley Veterans Roll of Honor Organization. 

Foundation

The Bureau County Farm Bureau Foundation was established in 1991 by members of the Bureau County Farm Bureau. The mission of the Farm Bureau Foundation is “To carry out charitable, scientific, literary and educational work that benefits Bureau County farm families and agriculture.”

The Foundation supports agricultural programs aimed at:

• Scholarship
• Education
• Leadership
• Research

Bureau County High School Senior Agricultural Scholarship

To provide for persons studying agriculture and agriculture-related fields including but not limited to education, vet medicine, and leadership development.

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,

Timothy Ryan Memorial Scholarship

The Timothy Ryan Memorial Scholarship Fund provides scholarships to students who exemplify characteristics exhibited by Timothy during his brief life: loving, caring, generous, family-oriented, genuine, sincere, and humorous.

The Shared Instrumentation Grant (SIG) Program supports NIH-funded investigators in acquiring high-cost, specialized instruments, with a minimum award of $50,000 and a maximum of $750,000. Eligible instruments include light microscopes, mass spectrometers, and DNA sequencers, among others. This program aims to enhance research capabilities by enabling the purchase or upgrade of essential equipment for scientific advancement.

The G. Scott Ransom Scholarship Fund, established by Team Duluth and the Duluth/Superior Alpine Club, supports youth athletes aged 5 to 19 in Northeastern Minnesota and Northwestern Wisconsin. This scholarship, honoring Coach Scott "Race" Ransom, helps cover team fee costs for competitive skiing experiences. By participating, young athletes not only enhance their skiing skills but also gain valuable life skills for future success. Award amounts vary based on individual needs.

The Marnell Foundation Scholarship, offered by the National Italian American Foundation, aims to support outstanding Italian American students from Nevada. Eligible candidates must maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher and have an active NIAF membership. This scholarship not only promotes academic excellence but also encourages the preservation of Italian culture and heritage among the community. It serves as an essential resource for students committed to pursuing their educational goals while honoring their rich cultural background.

The Martini Foundation/National Italian American Foundation Villanova University Scholarship supports outstanding Italian American students at Villanova University, particularly those from northern New Jersey. Eligible candidates must demonstrate financial need, maintain a GPA of 3.25 or higher, and have an active NIAF membership. This scholarship promotes the importance of Italian heritage and culture, ensuring the legacy of Italian Americans continues to thrive in the United States.

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) is inviting applications for the Specialized Programs of Research Excellence (SPOREs) in Human Cancers for 2027-2029. This funding opportunity supports innovative translational research aimed at improving prevention, detection, and treatment of organ-specific cancers. Eligible projects may address related cancer types from the same organ system or focus on common biological mechanisms. The program emphasizes research that translates findings into clinical applications, with the goal of achieving a human endpoint during the grant period.

The CPCF Women’s Giving Circle Scholarship, established by the Crown Point Community Foundation, aims to empower women in South Lake County, IN, over the age of 21 through collective giving. The Women's Giving Circle believes that by working together, they can create a greater impact in their community. This non-renewable scholarship supports college students and adult learners, emphasizing the importance of financial assistance for various community needs.

The Amiel and Mary Anne Zak Scholarship Fund, established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, supports Suffield, CT students who enhance community safety and quality of life. Since 1945, the Foundation has awarded nearly $30 million in scholarships to students pursuing higher education in Connecticut and beyond. This fund honors the contributions of Amiel and Mary Anne Zak, providing financial assistance to deserving local high school seniors committed to public service.

The Learning Tree Scholarship, established by The Learning Tree, Inc. through the Central Alabama Community Foundation, supports graduating high school seniors from select counties with a minimum ACT score of 20. This renewable scholarship offers up to $2,000 annually for students pursuing degrees in education, healthcare, and related fields. The foundation, active since 1987, aims to enhance local nonprofit initiatives and educational opportunities in the River Region, serving counties including Lowndes, Macon, and Montgomery.

Central Alabama Community Foundation

Established in 1987 by community leaders, the Central Alabama Community Foundation serves the River Region counties of Lowndes, Macon, and Montgomery. CACF was created to provide a permanent charitable resource dedicated to strengthening nonprofits and meeting local needs in the Montgomery area.

Through a variety of funds, CACF supports projects and programs in education, health, human services, cultural arts, recreation, historic preservation, and other civic concerns.

Every year, CACF awards grants to nonprofit projects and programs providing services in Lee, Macon, and Montgomery counties.

The Hawkins Educational Foundation Scholarship

The Hawkins Educational Foundation Scholarship assists students who plan to continue their education in college or vocational school programs. Applicants must be a high school senior residing in Baldwin County for at least one (1) year prior to the application deadline date. Students must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 and plan to enroll in full-time study at an accredited two-year or four-year college, university, or vocational-technical school for the entire upcoming academic year. Awards are renewable up to three years or until a bachelor’s degree is earned, whichever occurs first, and are based on satisfactory academic performance and fulltime enrollment. Awards are for undergraduate study only.

The Anna C. Klune Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the American Marketing Association Connecticut Chapter, supports Connecticut residents pursuing an MBA with a focus on marketing. Managed by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, which has awarded nearly $30 million in scholarships since 1945, this fund aims to foster education and career development in marketing. Eligible students must demonstrate leadership and innovation in their pursuits.

The Barbara Kelco Memorial Scholarship Fund, established in 2010 by her sister, honors Barbara Kelco's dedication to education. This fund provides scholarships for graduating seniors from Granby High School who plan to major in Education at a four-year college or university. It is part of the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving's extensive scholarship program, which has awarded nearly $30 million since 1945, supporting local students pursuing higher education.

The Bartlett Family Scholarship Fund, established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, supports graduates from Greater Hartford high schools who have participated in Big Brothers Big Sisters or Boys and Girls Club programs. Since 1945, the foundation has awarded nearly $30 million in scholarships, helping local students pursue higher education. This fund aims to empower youth by assisting those with financial needs to achieve their educational goals.

The Beverly J. Malone Ladizki and David A. Ladizki Scholarship Fund, established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, supports students from Agawam, MA, and nearby areas. Preference is given to those residing in Suffield, CT, who demonstrate financial need. Since 1945, the Foundation has awarded nearly $30 million in scholarships, aiding local students in their pursuit of higher education at various institutions. This fund specifically aims to assist deserving individuals in achieving their academic goals.

The Aging Research Dissertation Awards aim to enhance diversity in the scientific research workforce focused on aging and related health conditions. This funding opportunity encourages applicants to submit Letters of Intent prior to full application deadlines. Key submission dates for standard and renewal applications span from February 2025 to October 2026, ensuring a wide array of research topics can be addressed.

The Bloomfield Scholarship Fund, established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, supports residents of Bloomfield, Connecticut, who are graduating seniors from public, private, or parochial high schools with a record of high academic performance. Annually, 1-3 scholarships are awarded to help students pursue post-secondary education. Since 1945, the Hartford Foundation has awarded nearly $30 million in scholarships, demonstrating its commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for local students.

Central Alabama Community Foundation

Established in 1987 by community leaders, the Central Alabama Community Foundation serves the River Region counties of Lowndes, Macon, and Montgomery. CACF was created to provide a permanent charitable resource dedicated to strengthening nonprofits and meeting local needs in the Montgomery area.

Through a variety of funds, CACF supports projects and programs in education, health, human services, cultural arts, recreation, historic preservation, and other civic concerns.

Every year, CACF awards grants to nonprofit projects and programs providing services in Lee, Macon, and Montgomery counties.

National Village Ladies Club Scholarship

The National Village Ladies Club Scholarship benefits female graduating high school seniors of Opelika high schools who have demonstrated leadership and community service. Eligible applicants must have a minimum 3.2 GPA and plan to attend two-year or four-year college, university, or trade school.

The Brian A. Aselton Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, honors a fallen police officer and supports children of active duty police officers in East Hartford, South Windsor, and Hartford. This scholarship program, part of a broader initiative that has awarded nearly $30 million since 1945, emphasizes the importance of education and aims to empower students pursuing degrees in criminal justice and related fields.

The Catharine W. Reid Scholarship Fund, established in 1945 through the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, provides scholarships for students from the Greater Hartford region entering four-year colleges. This fund aims to support 1-2 students each year who demonstrate financial need and academic ability, requiring a minimum GPA of 2.5. The Hartford Foundation has been pivotal in aiding local students with nearly $30 million awarded in scholarships since its inception.

The Christopher Guerrini Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, supports high school seniors from the Greater Hartford region who demonstrate financial need. Eligible students must attend a four-year college, show interest in business or history, and have a record of community involvement, particularly in sports, with a preference for soccer. This scholarship reflects the Foundation's commitment to fostering educational opportunities for local youth.

Coast Guard Foundation

Founded in 1969, we’re a vital partner to the U.S. Coast Guard—tackling the toughest challenges confronting our heroes.

We’re there for members from enlistment to long after retirement, and our work strengthens the entire community. Through close collaboration with Coast Guard leadership, we’re able to respond to new and emerging needs effectively. Our investments support families, bolster unit morale, honor the Coast Guard’s mission at the national level, and more. Every day, Coast Guard members risk their lives to protect our country. When we stand together and show them our appreciation, we can ensure they remain always ready—no matter what.

Children of Enlisted Member Scholarship - Returning Scholar Application

Description

Scholarship for Children of Enlisted Coast Guard Members and Retirees

This application is intended for returning/renewal applicants only.

Support for education is a cornerstone of our commitment to the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard and their families.

If you are the child of an active duty, retired, or active reserve Coast Guard member you are eligible to apply. 

When we began the scholarship program in 1990, we focused on one goal — providing Coast Guard families the opportunity to send their children to college. Since that time, the cost of higher education has sky-rocketed, making our original aspiration even more relevant for today’s Coast Guard families.