Best Grants for Teachers Continuing Education in Connecticut

Liberty Bank Foundation

Established in 1997, Liberty Bank Foundation extends Liberty Bank’s long-standing commitment to strengthening the communities we’ve proudly served for over 200 years.

Grants

We support 501(c)(3) organizations whose work aligns with our funding priorities and creates meaningful local impact. We encourage applicants to review our Grant Guidelines to learn more about eligibility, focus areas, and the application process.

Our Focus Areas and Intended Impact

Our grantmaking is rooted in Liberty Bank’s mission to improve the lives of our customers, teammates, and communities for generations to come. Through the Foundation, we invest in nonprofit partners working to strengthen local communities and expand opportunity for the people and places we serve.

Our funding priorities focus on areas where community investment can create lasting, measurable impact:

• Education, Workforce Readiness, and Support for Small Business: Supporting programs that help students and adults build the skills, confidence, and pathways needed for future success.
• Affordable Housing: Supporting efforts that increase housing stability and help individuals and families access safe, affordable places to live.
• Food Security: We offer a limited number of grants to support the primary food pantry or soup kitchen in communities where we operate. Our primary means for addressing food security is through our Liberty Bank Rotary Club Thanksgiving Drive. 

Across these focus areas, we look for clear community need, strong nonprofit partners, practical plans, and outcomes that help individuals and families become stronger, more stable, and better positioned for the future.

Strategic Impact Grants

Nonprofits interested in Strategic Impact Grants should begin by completing a Letter of Interest (LOI). The LOI should provide a brief overview of the organization, the proposed project or initiative, the community need addressed, expected outcomes, alignment with the Foundation’s funding priorities, and the amount of funding requested.

The Sharon Orloski Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports students at Central Connecticut State University pursuing degrees in life sciences. This scholarship particularly favors women demonstrating commitment and potential in scientific fields, aiming to enhance academic achievement and promote women's representation in the life sciences. With a focus on fostering future leaders, it reflects the Foundation's mission to inspire philanthropy and address community challenges through education.

The Haymarket People's Fund offers Urgent Response Grants of up to $5,000 for grassroots organizations in New England to address unforeseen crises or opportunities. These grants support both urban and rural social justice efforts and do not require 501(c)3 status. Priority is given to organizations led by people of color that incorporate anti-racism values. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis after a preliminary conversation with Haymarket staff.

The EPOC Grant Program provides funding to non-profit and not-for-profit environmental advocacy groups, as well as community-based organizations, for local projects that enhance the environment. Eligible projects include property clean-ups, reforestation, biodiversity initiatives, and environmental education efforts aimed at youth. Applications will be evaluated based on the environmental benefits they propose, with a focus on improving Connecticut's ecosystems.

The CSWEP Environmental Professionals Grant Program, organized by the Connecticut Society for Women Environmental Professionals, aims to empower women in environmental fields. It funds local projects in Connecticut that contribute positively to the environment. The program prioritizes applications that demonstrate significant environmental benefits, ranging from clean-up initiatives to educational programs. Through this grant, SWEP-CT fosters leadership and collaboration among women professionals, enhancing their skills and promoting public service in environmental endeavors.

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.

Clarkson Family Scholarship

Applicant must be a current full-time student or a graduating high school senior with a minimum 3.0 GPA, attending a college/university or higher education institution in New England (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island or Vermont). This is a one-year scholarship reserved for Cherokee Nation citizens.

Haymarket People's Fund offers Sustaining Grants to grassroots organizations focused on community organizing and social change. Grants up to $20,000 are available for both emerging and established groups that align with Haymarket's anti-racist mission. The fund prioritizes work that addresses root causes of injustice, fosters leadership, and builds accountability within the community. Organizations not primarily providing direct services or advocacy are encouraged to apply, ensuring a focus on transformative social change.

The American Honda Foundation provides programmatic support to nonprofit organizations and schools in the U.S., empowering impactful initiatives aligned with community needs. Funding opportunities are available through Honda corporate and Honda USA Foundation, focusing on projects that enhance education and community welfare. Eligible organizations must have nonprofit status or be recognized educational institutions. The application process opens each fall, with funding decisions announced the following spring, ensuring alignment with Honda's commitment to social responsibility.

The Laura B. Seder Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, provides financial assistance to students from Norwich attending accredited colleges or universities. Established in memory of Laura B. Seder, a dedicated lawyer and community member, this scholarship emphasizes the importance of legal studies. Since 1983, the foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships to support local students in achieving their educational and career goals.

The Connecting Joy Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to enhance the hospital experience for children battling illness through engaging gaming programs. This initiative supports children's hospitals and nonprofits by funding equipment, staffing, and connectivity, ensuring children can enjoy gaming at their bedside. With grants ranging from $25,000 to $150,000, the program focuses on offering joy and distraction, helping young patients cope with their hospital stays while facilitating connections with peers.

The Dunkin’ Prom Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to bring joy to teenage patients unable to attend their own prom due to illness. By funding hospitals to host prom-like events, the program ensures these patients experience this significant milestone. Grants typically range from $20,000 to $50,000, supporting the creation of memorable events with themes, food, entertainment, and formal wear for the teens, making a positive impact in their lives.

The Dunkin' Joyful Spaces Grant supports children's hospitals and community health centers in creating joyful environments for pediatric patients. Launched in 2022, this initiative helps fund play areas, healing gardens, and other kid-friendly spaces, enhancing the hospital experience. Grants typically range from $25,000 to $65,000 annually, with a maximum of $150,000 over three years. This opportunity encourages creativity in designing spaces that provide comfort and joy to children and their families during hospital stays.

The Dogs for Joy Grant, funded by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, supports the integration of trained facility dogs in pediatric hospitals. These dogs provide emotional support, help children cope with medical procedures, and enhance overall well-being. The program aims to increase the presence of in-residence dogs, as research highlights their positive impact on reducing anxiety and improving patient outcomes. Grants typically cover multi-year funding, promoting innovative animal-assisted therapy approaches in healthcare settings.

What does this program do?

It provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:

• To help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.
• Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.

Microenterprise Development Organizations must demonstrate experience in managing a Revolving Loan Fund, or:

• Certify that it or its employees have received education and training from a qualified microenterprise development training entity so that the applicant has the capacity to manage such a revolving loan fund.
• Demonstrate that it is actively and successfully participating as an intermediary lender in good standing under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloan Program or other similar loan programs as determined by the Administrator.

 What kind of funding is available?

• Grants are available to provide technical assistance to rural micro-entrepreneurs or microenterprises, up to $205,000 annually.
  • Funding at the requested level is not guaranteed, and at least 15 percent matching funds are required.

• Loans of $50,000 to $500,000 may be used for establishing a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund managed by the Microenterprise Development Organization.
  • Total aggregate debt is capped at $2.5 million.

What are the loan terms?

• Maximum term is 20 years.
• Two-year payment deferral.
• Must establish a loan loss reserve fund.

What terms are required on loans to ultimate recipients?

• Up to $50,000.
• Fixed interest rate.
• Limited to 75 percent of project cost.

How may the funds be used?

Microlenders may make microloans for qualified business activities and expenses including, but not limited to:

• Working capital.
• Debt refinancing.
• Purchasing equipment and supplies.
• Improving real estate.

The CT Healthy Forests Reserve Program (HFRP) supports landowners in restoring and protecting forestland resources through easements and financial aid. It aims to recover endangered species, enhance biodiversity, and improve carbon sequestration. Eligible participants can receive 10-year restoration agreements or longer-term easements. The program allows landowners to avoid regulatory restrictions under the Endangered Species Act by improving habitats on their property, benefiting both the environment and the community.

The Long Island Sound Futures Fund (LISFF) is offering approximately $12 million in grants to enhance the health and living resources of Long Island Sound. Managed by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) in collaboration with the U.S. EPA and the Long Island Sound Study (LISS), this initiative seeks innovative proposals to support environmental restoration efforts, leveraging major funding from various agencies and foundations.

The Connecticut Health Foundation offers sponsorship for health-related events that reflect its mission. Funding supports various events like conferences, forums, and community gatherings, with a focus on partnerships that provide recognition and promotional opportunities. Eligibility is limited to 501(c)(3) organizations or public entities, ensuring the events benefit Connecticut residents. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with foundation priorities and potential to enhance visibility for CT Health.

The CT Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP): Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE) offers financial assistance to help private and tribal landowners restore and enhance wetlands. This program supports habitat for wildlife, improves water quality, and combats flooding. Eligible landowners can receive funding for permanent, 30-year, and term easements, enabling effective conservation practices. NRCS prioritizes applications based on their potential to protect migratory birds and other wildlife. Apply year-round to benefit from this vital environmental initiative.

The CT Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) supports sustainable agriculture by protecting farmland through Agricultural Land Easements (ALE). These easements limit non-agricultural land uses, preserving cropland and grassland vital for food production. The program benefits landowners and enhances public resources like wildlife habitats and historic sites. With funding from the USDA's Natural Resource Conservation Service, ALE helps landowners maintain their agricultural practices while ensuring long-term land stewardship and environmental conservation.

The Resilient and Connected Appalachians Grant Program, offered by The Nature Conservancy, provides up to $100,000 for projects that acquire land and easements throughout the Appalachian region. This program emphasizes equitable conservation, aiming to support historically marginalized communities and enhance access to nature while addressing climate change impacts. Projects must demonstrate community engagement and align with the program's goals to protect vital habitats and foster resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) is charged with conserving, improving and protecting the natural resources and the environment of the state of Connecticut as well as making cheaper, cleaner and more reliable energy available for the people and businesses of the state. The agency is also committed to playing a positive role in rebuilding Connecticut’s economy and creating jobs – and to fostering a sustainable and prosperous economic future for the state.

DEEP has established five strategic goals that guide the work across our programs. The Department is organized into the Office of the Commissioner and three Branches: Energy Branch, Environmental Quality Branch, and Environmental Conservation Branch.

Energy Resilience Construction Grant Program

Energy Resilience Construction Grants are available for entities to support local distributed energy generation and resilient infrastructure deployment at critical state facilities, prioritizing proposals from Vulnerable Communities. This funding comes from the Grid Resilience State and Tribal Formula Grants Program, BIL (P.L. 117-169) Section 40101(d) and the energy construction component of the DCRF authorized pursuant to Section 16-243y of the Connecticut General Statutes.

The William Silva Fund for the Arts, managed by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports students pursuing studies in visual and performing arts, particularly in music, singing, photography, painting, and acting. Since 1983, the foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships to help local students achieve their educational goals. This fund reflects a commitment to nurturing artistic talent in the region and enhancing the cultural landscape of Eastern Connecticut.

The NESOT Paper of the Year Award, presented by the Northeast Society of Toxicology, recognizes outstanding publications in toxicology by graduate students or postdoctoral fellows. Eligible applicants must be NESOT members affiliated with institutions in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, or Vermont. Papers must be published or in press in peer-reviewed journals between December 1, 2024, and November 30, 2025. The award includes a certificate and a $1,000 honorarium.

The NESOT Student Travel Award for SOT Annual Meeting supports graduate and undergraduate students who are members of the NESOT Regional Chapter. Eligible students must apply with a membership application, abstract, and a letter of support from their Major Advisor. The award offers significant prizes for the top five applicants, ranging from $500 to $1,000, promoting student engagement and research in toxicology within the NESOT region.

The CTDOT Active Transportation Microgrant program supports local initiatives aimed at promoting safer and healthier transportation options. By offering small grants to communities, schools, and organizations, it encourages projects that enhance walking and biking, improve safety, and raise awareness of active transportation. This initiative is crucial as it helps reduce traffic congestion, enhances air quality, and promotes healthier lifestyles, ultimately fostering vibrant and connected communities across Connecticut.

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, led by the National Arbor Day Foundation, encourages colleges and universities to foster green spaces and enhance community forests. By meeting five key standards, institutions can achieve national recognition for their commitment to tree care and environmental stewardship. This program not only beautifies campuses but also promotes energy efficiency, mental health, and student engagement in environmental education, ultimately benefiting both students and the planet.

The Brownfield Municipal Grant Program - Assessment in Connecticut supports municipalities in redeveloping brownfield sites, promoting economic impact through remediation. Grants range from $100,000 to $200,000, with councils of governments and brownfield land banks eligible for higher amounts. The program aims to stimulate job creation and leverage private funding, encouraging partnerships and revitalizing previously stalled sites. Proof of site control is required for applicants, ensuring effective use of the funds.