Best Grants for Teachers Continuing Education in Connecticut

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 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 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.

Nonprofit and community organizations in Connecticut that engage AmeriCorps members in community service programs can apply for Serve Connecticut’s CT AmeriCorps Formula Funding Opportunity. Grants from Serve Connecticut help Connecticut groups run evidence-based service projects, which may include youth mental health, substance use recovery, environmental stewardship, veteran support, civic engagement, or work with underserved and marginalized communities.

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 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 Giants Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations focused on community issues, health improvement, and youth empowerment. Established in 1993 by the New York Giants, the foundation aims to provide financial assistance to eligible organizations in the NY, NJ, and CT areas. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits and either youth organizations or those using funds for youth-related programming in health, education, fitness, or football. This grant fosters positive impacts in the community.

The Cigna Group Foundation is launching the Improving Youth Mental Health Grant, committing $9 million over three years to enhance mental health support for youth aged five to 18. This initiative targets post-pandemic challenges, offering resources to parents, caregivers, and youth service professionals. Nonprofits are encouraged to apply for funding between $100,000 and $150,000 to develop programs that promote social-emotional skills, enhance caregiver support, and improve access to mental health interventions in underserved communities.

Teachers and other researchers in fields like history, literature, art history, sociology, and environmental studies can receive US $5,000 to conduct archival research across New England, including Connecticut. Grants from Harvard University help scholars plan eight-week itineraries using at least three member institutions, with a minimum of two weeks at each repository.

The CT Grown for CT Kids Grant provides vital funding to enhance farm-to-school programs in Connecticut. Aimed at local boards of education, childcare centers, and organizations, this grant focuses on improving children's access to local foods, fostering nutritional education, and supporting local agriculture. By facilitating hands-on learning and sustainable practices, the program aims to enrich the educational experience and promote healthier lifestyles among children, ultimately benefiting the state's economy.

The Department of the Interior's Wildland Fire Service Joint Fire Science Program (JFSP) invites proposals for the FLAMES award, aimed at master and doctoral students in wildland fire studies. This initiative enhances research relevance by connecting students with fire management practices, providing experiential learning opportunities, and fostering mentorship. Students will gain valuable insights into management and policy, preparing them for impactful careers in fire science. The program emphasizes peer-learning and professional development in the context of wildland fire management.

The U.S. Wildland Fire Service Joint Fire Science Program (JFSP) invites proposals for regional fire science exchanges across nine designated regions in the U.S. This initiative aims to promote the sharing of fire science knowledge and practices over a two-year period. Eligible applicants can focus on regions including Alaska, Appalachians, Great Basin, North Atlantic, Northern Rockies, Northwest, Oak Woodlands, Pacific Islands, and Southwest. Proposals must be specific to one region.

Boehringer Ingelheim's Strengthening Communities Grants aim to enhance the health of individuals and communities through innovative programs and financial contributions. The BI Cares Foundation focuses on improving access to healthcare, promoting STEM education, and strengthening the human-animal bond, particularly for underserved populations. Since its inception in 2001, BI Cares has donated over $37 million to support these initiatives in Connecticut. Their commitment extends through employee engagement and volunteerism to meet community needs.

The Northwest Community Bank Foundation supports non-profits that enhance community life through grants focused on education, housing, basic human services, and community impact. Eligible organizations include registered 501(c)(3) entities aligned with the Foundation's mission, serving areas across Connecticut. With an average grant size of $3,500 and a cap of $25,000 per year, the Foundation aims to foster economic success, empower youth, and provide essential services to those in need.

The ACT on Health Equity Community Solutions Challenge Grant, backed by the Astrazeneca Foundation, aims to enhance health equity by funding community-based nonprofit programs. Since its inception in 2021, it has allocated over $2.6 million to initiatives addressing nutrition, healthcare access, and lung health for historically marginalized populations. Eligible US-based 501(c) organizations can apply, with a focus on projects serving underserved communities and improving health outcomes through targeted support.

The One Hive Foundation Grant focuses on promoting pollinator health and ecologically responsible agriculture through funding research and nonprofit initiatives. Launched in 2022, the grant supports diverse projects aimed at enhancing environmental data, public education, and scientific collaboration. Targeting verified 501c3 organizations, the foundation emphasizes ecological practices and community engagement in Vermont and beyond, with grants of up to $75,000 available to eligible applicants.

The Highlands Conservation Act Program, administered by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, supports land conservation projects in Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Grants cover up to 50% of project costs for acquisitions from willing sellers. The program typically allocates funds in two categories: Base and Competitive. Eligible applicants can apply for Base Funding through this Notice of Funding Opportunity, while a separate notice will address Competitive Funds.

The Open Space and Watershed Land Acquisition Grant Program, offered by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, provides essential funding for municipalities and nonprofit organizations to purchase land for conservation and recreational purposes. This program prioritizes projects that demonstrate high conservation value and leverage additional funding sources. It also supports distressed municipalities, fostering community gardens and green spaces, thereby enhancing the environment and public access to natural areas.

The Allison Keller Education Technology Grant Program, established by the Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism, aims to bridge the technological gap for schools and organizations supporting individuals with autism. Since 2012, over $820,000 has been awarded to enhance learning through technology, including iPads and apps. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and public schools in Massachusetts and surrounding New England states, with one program per district receiving funding annually.

The NCAAA Older American’s Act Grant, managed by the North Central Area Agency on Aging, aims to enhance service systems for older adults in Connecticut. Its objectives include supporting independence, removing barriers to personal and economic freedom, and ensuring a continuum of care for vulnerable seniors. This grant focuses on comprehensive planning, resource development, and advocacy, ensuring older individuals receive the necessary services to thrive in their communities.

The NCAAA Alzheimer’s Aide Grant aims to enhance adult day care services for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias in North Central Connecticut. This initiative, backed by the North Central Area Agency on Aging, will provide funding to support specialized care positions and ensure that centers meet the needs of this vulnerable population. The program underscores NCAAA's commitment to improving the quality of life for older adults and their families through effective resource allocation.

The Elizabeth Carse Foundation, established in 1970, focuses on enhancing education and child welfare in Connecticut. It offers one-year grants to organizations that provide impactful teacher training, aiding children in achieving improved living standards. However, the foundation does not support general operating costs or capital projects and limits funding to a maximum of three consecutive years per applicant. This ensures that resources are allocated effectively to promote educational advancements.

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 Northeast SARE

The Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) Program offers grants and education to farmers, educators, service providers, researchers and others to address key issues affecting the sustainability of agriculture throughout our region.

The program serves Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. The program is administered by Northeast SARE's host institution, the University of Vermont.

Farming Community Grant Program

The Northeast SARE Farming Community Grant applies social science research and education projects that strengthen farming and food systems at the community level.

These projects explore innovative approaches to improving the health and sustainability of agricultural communities in the Northeast. This program supports projects that are grounded in community partnerships and informed by the lived experiences of farmers. It encourages collaboration among farmers, service providers, researchers, and nonprofit organizations to co-create solutions that are responsive to local needs and scalable across the region.

This program encourages innovative solutions to challenges in farming and food systems in the Northeast USA, including but not limited to the areas of: Marketing and business; Crop production; Raising livestock; Aquaculture; Economic and social sustainability; Ecological knowledge; Projects related to climate and/or bioenergy work that provide direct or indirect benefits to farmers,ranchers, and private foresters; and more.

Technical Assistance Program

Applicants and grantees of the Farming Community Grant Program are eligible for Technical Assistance (TA) provided by Northeast SARE’s Technical Assistance Providers.

Funding: This grant is reimbursement based; you must spend money to receive the grant funds.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant opportunity for schools to implement the PLTW Engineering program for the 2025-2026 academic year and beyond. Eligible institutions include public, private, and charter schools located in the US. Grant recipients will receive funding to cover participation fees and training costs. Total funding amounts to $16,000, distributed over three years. Schools are encouraged to create pathways for students in engineering through this initiative.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW) offers grants for schools to implement the PLTW Computer Science program from 2025 to 2028. Schools must provide at least one PLTW course in the first year and two courses in the second year. The total grant is $14,000, covering participation fees and training costs. Eligible institutions include public, private, and charter schools located in the U.S., with special encouragement for those serving low-income or minority-majority populations.

Eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits, government entities, and educational institutions in Connecticut and other CSX service communities can request CSX Foundation’s in-kind donations to support military members, veterans, and community first responders. Applicants may receive intermodal transportation services or donated railroad equipment and materials to reduce program costs and strengthen community-focused initiatives.