Best Grants for Preschools in Connecticut

The Jean R. Beers Scholarship, offered by the Society of Women Engineers, empowers female college students pursuing Baccalaureate degrees in STEM fields. This $1,000 cash tuition award is for those enrolled full-time during the 2025-2026 academic year and residing or attending a college within the SWE Connecticut Section. With a legacy of supporting women in engineering, this scholarship aims to inspire the next generation of female leaders in technology and engineering.

The Herbst Fund for Eye Research, established by the Connecticut Community Foundation, promotes eye research and enhances community awareness of eye diseases. It supports educational opportunities for local medical providers and prioritizes Connecticut-based initiatives. Founded in 1923, the foundation focuses on fostering an equitable community by addressing critical health issues. Grants are aimed at improving knowledge and treatment of eye diseases, benefiting both patients and healthcare professionals in the region.

The NE-AIPG Angelo Tagliacozzo Memorial Geological Scholarship (ATMGS) supports junior and senior undergraduate geology students in the NE Section, honoring Angelo Tagliacozzo's legacy. Established in 1986, the scholarship aims to encourage young geologists to pursue careers in geological sciences. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in accredited programs, on track for required credit hours, and can only receive the scholarship once. This initiative fosters early engagement with AIPG, emphasizing professional affiliation and support for the next generation of geologists.

The Mabel F. Hoffman Charitable Trust, established in 1969, supports quality educational, health care, and human services programs for underserved populations, particularly in Hartford, Connecticut. Grants are awarded for one year and special consideration is given to local organizations. However, capital projects are not funded, and applicants can receive grants for a maximum of three consecutive years. This trust aims to enhance the well-being of the community through its dedicated funding.

Connecticut housing counseling agencies that are 501(c)(3) NCRC members and HUD-certified can access funding through the National Community Reinvestment Coalition to expand direct homeownership counseling services. Subgrants support pre-purchase counseling and training on heirs’ property issues, which may benefit organizations helping preschool families and other low-income households begin and sustain homeownership.

The Supporting Arts Grant Program, administered by the CT Office of the Arts, provides essential funding to arts organizations and municipal arts departments in Connecticut. This grant aims to support programmatic costs that align with the organizations' core missions. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organizations and municipal arts departments with specific operational requirements. By applying, organizations must adhere to federal terms and conditions set forth by the National Endowment for the Arts.

The Connecticut Arts Endowment Fund Grant supports nonprofit arts organizations in Connecticut by providing unrestricted funding to enhance their operations. Organizations eligible for funding must demonstrate significant donor contributions and maintain compliance with state regulations. The grant incentivizes fundraising efforts by matching contributions based on a formula, ensuring that arts initiatives receive the necessary financial backing to thrive. This program aims to cultivate long-term sustainability within Connecticut's arts sector.

Connecticut Humanities offers Public Presentation Planning Grants of up to $25,000 to support the research and development of humanities projects. These grants enable organizations to conduct scholarly research, gather stakeholder feedback, and prepare for project implementation. The initiative promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that the humanities intersect with various fields like arts and STEM. By funding such projects, Connecticut Humanities aims to strengthen community engagement and enhance understanding of cultural and historical narratives.

The CT Humanities: Public Presentation Implementation Grant supports the execution of humanities projects such as exhibitions and public programs. It is designed for projects ready for implementation and requires applicants to demonstrate significant humanities scholarship. The grant encourages proposals that clearly define goals and highlight the intersection of humanities with other fields like arts or STEM. This grant is an opportunity for projects that enhance public understanding of humanities themes.

The CT Humanities Capacity Building Grant Program supports organizations bringing humanities to the public in Connecticut. By providing funding for consultant-led projects, this program enables organizations to improve their strategic planning, audience understanding, and operational efficiency. Eligible projects include board training, financial planning, marketing assessments, and more, fostering a stronger cultural community that reflects the diverse needs of the state.

About CHEFA

CHEFA was established by the Connecticut General Assembly in 1965 pursuant to Chapter 187 of the Connecticut General Statutes. Created to strengthen Connecticut’s nonprofit infrastructure, CHEFA provides access to tax-exempt bond financing and other financial tools for healthcare providers, educational institutions, childcare providers, and other eligible nonprofit organizations. Since its founding, CHEFA has issued more than $26.7 billion in tax-exempt bonds and awarded over $53.4 million in grant funding statewide. Through its subsidiary, the Connecticut Higher Education Supplemental Loan Authority (CHESLA), CHEFA has also provided more than $652 million in affordable student loans and over $12.6 million in scholarships to Connecticut students. CHEFA carries out this essential public purpose without the use of state appropriations or taxpayer funds.

Enterprise Capital Grant Program

The Enterprise Capital Grant Program is designed to bolster the capabilities and impact of nonprofit organizations in Connecticut through grants that support strategic initiatives and strengthen balance sheets. Funding for this program is derived from CHEFA’s own resources and does not include any State funding.

The FY 2027 Enterprise Capital Grant Program will support innovative investments toward the launch, stabilization, or scaling of an organization and its vision and mission. Letters of Interest will be considered for initiatives such as:

• Capacity Building and Investment to Enhance Organizational Efficiency
• Program Expansion to Increase Reach and Impact
• Strategic Projects that Promote Sustainability

Organizations are expected to have recently completed (or have plans in the near future to complete) a strategic plan that supports their grant request. Funding will be unrestricted, with the purpose of providing flexible capital to empower organizations to better address societal challenges and achieve their missions more effectively.

General Guidelines

• Awards are for a three-year grant period and range from $100,000 to a maximum of $500,000
• Applicants that have outstanding CHEFA bond issues must be substantially in compliance with all bond documentation for the most recent audited fiscal year and current on all payments due to be deemed eligible.

Pegpetia Grant Program

The Public, Educational and Governmental Programming and Educational Technology Investment Account (PEGPETIA) grant program provides funding to (1) promote and improve public, educational and governmental programming in Connecticut and (2) support education technology initiatives of boards of education and other education entities.

The Public Utilities Regulatory Authority awards 50% of funding as PEG Grants to promote and improve public, educational and governmental programming on community access channels in Connecticut, and the remaining 50% is awarded as ETI Grants to support education technology initiatives of boards of education and other education entities.

Eligible Projects

PEG Grants may be awarded for investments that are designed to improve or promote PEG programming. Although funds are available to a wide variety of entities involved either directly or indirectly in producing community access programs, the award of funds to those entities is not the goal of the program. Rather the funds are intended to be used for capital and equipment costs that aid the production and procurement of public, educational and governmental programs. Accordingly, grant recipients are required to file a report with the authority, stating (a) the title, subject and duration (in minutes) of all community access programs facilitated in whole or in part by the grant award; (b) how the programs were distributed through community access channels; and (c) the protocols for ensuring that any programs produced with equipment purchased with PEGPETIA funds are made available in the applicant’s local PEG studio. Additionally, PEG grant recipients must also file a report after project completion enabled by the grant funds to ensure the funding is used appropriately.  

ETI Grants may be awarded for the support of education technology initiatives boards of education and other education entities, including both public and private schools. Accordingly, ETI grant recipients must file a report of the completed project enabled by the grant funds to ensure the funding is used appropriately.

CSX Charitable Investments offers the Pride in Service Grants to support organizations that honor and assist military members and first responders. Focus areas include safety, mental health, community bridging, workforce development, and addressing food insecurity. Eligible organizations include those with 501(c)(3) status, government entities, and educational institutions. Grants aim to uplift communities and recognize the contributions of those who serve, while ensuring alignment with specific charitable criteria.

New ERA Writers Program Goals

The New Era Writers Program aims to inspire those who seek to improve their current abilities or find a community with like-minded individuals and writers. We want to provide support and resources to writers and writing programs to help amplify their voices and improve their capabilities. Our Foundation believes that one of the most important life skills is the ability to be an effective writer and communicator. We support programs that will provide anyone with the knowledge and skills to express themselves through the art of writing and encourage higher levels of training designed to assist in delivering clear and persuasive arguments for change and equality. This program was designed to support writers as they pursue a career and love of writing.

Program Outline

The New Era program was created to encourage writing professionals, teachers, counselors, professors, and schools to start or continue programs supporting professional and creative writing career paths.

The program can support:

• Any writing genre: Journalism, Fiction, Poetry, Prose, Blogging, Novel, Autobiography, Book Reviews, Comic Strips, Diaries, Essays, Fables, etc.
• Programs can be Workshops, Writing Clubs, Curriculum Based Programs, After-school programs, Summer Programs, Retreats, etc.
• Program space that provides a safe and inspiring environment.
• Community Partnerships or On-Staff Writing Professionals or Teachers with Writing Degrees or who Minored in Writing or any Humanities, Liberal Arts or another degree that teaches or encourages writing.

Nonprofit organizations advancing equitable, sustainable food systems in Connecticut, New York, or New Jersey can receive $10,000 through the Community Food Funders Champions Award to support their work. With a mission to strengthen regional food justice, North Star Fund and Community Food Funders honor one group annually and offer networking, visibility, and leadership opportunities with regional funders.

The James W. Cooper Fellows program, established by the Connecticut Bar Foundation, invites nominations for outstanding Connecticut lawyers, judges, and law educators to enhance understanding of the legal profession and justice administration. Selected nominees commit to a $2,500 pledge over ten years. The program aims to improve civil justice through various grants and initiatives, reinforcing the foundation's mission of equitable legal access and education in Connecticut.

Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services

The Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) promotes and administers comprehensive, recovery-oriented services in the areas of mental health treatment and substance abuse prevention and treatment throughout Connecticut.

While the Department's prevention services serve all Connecticut citizens, its mandate is to serve adults (over 18 years of age) with psychiatric or substance use disorders, or both, who lack the financial means to obtain such services on their own. DMHAS also provides collaborative programs for individuals with special needs, such as persons with HIV/AIDS infection, people in the criminal justice system, those with problem gambling disorders, substance abusing pregnant women, persons with traumatic brain injury or hearing impairment, those with co-occurring substance abuse and mental illness, and special populations transitioning out of the Department of Children and Families.

Building Resilient Youth and Communities with Prevention (BRYCWP)

RFP Purpose

DMHAS seeks to fund up to ten (10) eligible proposers to implement evidence-based prevention strategies aimed at reducing underage drinking / alcohol use and an optional second prevention priority among youth ages 12-20 in communities. Funded organizations will be required to apply the SPF to guide their work, with a focus on reducing risk factors, strengthening protective factors, and achieving sustainable, community-level impact.

Contracts may be awarded for a term of up to five (5) years, and applicants must demonstrate the capacity to lead local prevention coalitions, implement effective strategies, and evaluate outcomes using measurable indicators.

About Us

In 2020, Connecticut established the Office of Workforce Strategy as an executive branch agency to serve as the staff to the Governor’s Workforce Council to provide strategic guidance and support the implementation of workforce initiatives and investments across the state.

The Governor's Workforce Council (GWC) is Connecticut's State Workforce Board. The GWC is responsible for setting strategy and policy for the state’s Pre-K through retirement workforce pipeline, and to serve as the primary coordinator for businesses, educators, trainers, state agencies, state workforce boards, non-profits, and others.

In April 2025, the Governor’s Workforce Council published an updated Strategic Plan, designed to provide a roadmap for workforce development efforts throughout the state. The Plan is anchored by three guiding values: Collaboration; Opportunity; and Impact, and aligned across three objectives: Drive Growth; Build Skills; and Expand Access.

Career ConneCT: Work-based Learning and Employment Subsidy RFP

Washington Trust Charitable Foundation offers community event sponsorships to support local initiatives such as road races, concerts, and festivals. However, requests must be made in writing at least 90 days prior to the event. It is important to note that the foundation does not contribute to organizations outside its defined market area, individuals, religious organizations, political campaigns, and certain other categories. This ensures focused support for community-driven activities.

About Us

Agriculture has a rich history in Connecticut and plays a major role in our state’s economy. The Department of Agriculture (DoAg) is dedicated to protecting this legacy.

Through thoughtful and comprehensive programs, we foster a healthy economic, environmental, and social climate for agriculture in CT. We manage programs to:

• Develop, promote, and regulate farms and businesses
• Protect agricultural and aquacultural resources
• Enforce laws for domestic animals
• Promote understanding of agriculture’s diversity, cultural heritage, and contribution to CT’s economy

Local Food Purchase Assistance Grant

A statewide grant program funded through S.A. 25-1 to improve local food access and agricultural supply chain resiliency. To learn more check out the press release below.

The purpose of CT DoAg’s LFPA grant program is to provide CT Grown farm products to underserved communities, at no cost to the individual, while maintaining and improving the CT agricultural supply chain resiliency. This is done through:

Establishing and strengthening partnerships across the food supply chain to ensure access to fresh, nutritious, culturally appropriate food in underserved communities.*

Purchasing from small ** Connecticut producers to build and expand market access and opportunities.

CT DoAg has a total of $1,550,000 available to award through a competitive grant process. The selected applicant pool shall be considerate of geography and reach to ensure distribution and sourcing throughout the state.

Funding for the 2026 LFPA Grant is provided by the State of Connecticut in Special Act 25-1 through the Budget Reserve Fund. 

Summary

The Connecticut Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services (DMHAS) is the primary funding entity for Supported Education (SEd) services for adults with mental health disorders, or co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. DMHAS seeks to continue providing a highquality statewide network of SEd services. The goals of SEd are to increase integrated educational support for the target population described above.

Purpose

To continue to provide a statewide network of SEd services to assist adults with mental health disorders or co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders to pursue educational goals

Substance Use Disorder Residential Bed Expansion

Many adult substance use residential treatment programs in Connecticut (CT) are funded by CT Medicaid, which covers the treatment and room and board costs for individuals enrolled in Medicaid, through the CT 1115 substance use disorder (SUD) demonstration that started in March 2022. The Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) provides contract dollars to many of these Medicaid-funded programs to serve individuals who are uninsured. DMHAS is soliciting proposals to add additional beds to existing substance use residential treatment programs or add new substance use residential treatment programs. These beds/programs would be jointly funded by CT Medicaid and DMHAS as described above. The specific American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) levels of care being expanded via this RFP are 3.5 and 3.1. There is particular interest in expanding services for women and those providing trauma and gender bestpractices.

RFP Purpose. To expand the number of beds in the Clinically Managed HighIntensity Residential Treatment services (ASAM Level 3.5) and Clinically Managed Low-Intensity Residential Treatment services (ASAM Level 3.1) levels of care in Connecticut.

Section 5310 Program - Enhanced Mobility for Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities

Section 5310 is a federal grant program intended to improve mobility for seniors and individuals with disabilities by removing barriers to transportation service and expanding transportation mobility options. It is administered in the state of Connecticut by the Connecticut Department of Transportation.

It supports transportation services planned, designed and carried out to meet the special transportation needs of seniors and individuals with disabilities in all areas of Connecticut and provides funding for both traditional capital investment and nontraditional investment beyond the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) complementary paratransit services.

The Section 5310 grant program is open to private nonprofit organizations, states or local government authorities, and operators of public transportation. Typical projects include the purchase of accessible vehicles, mobility management programs, travel voucher programs, and operating support of volunteer driver programs or demand response services.

The Rapid Evaluation, Stabilization and Treatment (REST) Center, part of the Rural Health Transformation Federal Grant Program, aims to establish up to four 23-hour crisis stabilization centers in Connecticut. These centers will provide accessible mental health and substance use treatment, emphasizing a 'no wrong door' approach for individuals in crisis. The initiative seeks to enhance the continuum of care for adults, ensuring services are person-centered, community-based, and delivered in a trauma-informed manner.

The 1772 Foundation Connecticut Matching Grant for Historic Preservation offers up to $10,000 annually for 501(c)(3) non-profits in Connecticut to support preservation projects. Qualifying projects include exterior painting, restoration of finishes, fire detection, and security systems, among others. Funding requires a one-to-one match, and grants are not available for churches, schools, or municipalities. This initiative promotes the preservation of historic sites, contributing to community identity and local economies.

The Olga Sipolin Children's Fund Grant, managed by Bank of America, aims to support underserved children by addressing their basic needs, including housing, clothing, food, and medical care. Established in 1998, this fund prioritizes charitable organizations that directly impact the welfare of children. The grant focuses on areas such as human services, education, health care, the arts, and the environment, with an intention to foster positive change within communities.

The Harold & Rebecca H. Gross Foundation Grant aims to support charitable organizations that assist individuals with physical disabilities, promoting their adjustment to various environments. Funded by Bank of America, the grant focuses on areas including human services, education, health care, the arts, and the environment. This initiative seeks to uplift underserved communities and enhance their quality of life through targeted funding and resources.