Best Grants for the Arts in Connecticut

Nonprofit organizations in Connecticut offering arts, culture, education, health, or human services programs for underserved residents can apply for project-specific support; grants are one year in duration. With a mission to strengthen educational, cultural, human services, and health care programming, the George & Grace L. Long Foundation prioritizes proposals for clearly defined programs over capital or deficit financing.

The Wolf Kahn Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations focused on visual arts, enhancing education and artist careers through exhibitions and residencies. Grants range from $5,000 to $15,000, prioritizing projects that promote social justice and environmental awareness. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations located in specific regions, while school-based programs and certain other entities are excluded. This initiative honors Wolf Kahn's legacy by fostering artistic collaboration and public engagement.

The Davis Family Foundation, established in Maine, focuses on granting support to educational, medical, and cultural/arts organizations. With over $63.5 million awarded since 1986, the foundation emphasizes innovative projects that make a significant impact on Maine communities. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and align with the foundation's priorities, ensuring projects enhance educational outcomes or address medical issues effectively. The foundation seeks unique projects that engage the community and preserve Maine's cultural heritage.

Connecticut 501(c)(3) arts and culture nonprofits can seek project support for education, community vitality, and related programs. With a mission to strengthen communities, Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation provides grants of US $1,000 - US $15,000 to organizations in its Connecticut service area, with two online application cycles each year.

Connecticut nonprofit arts organizations can receive unrestricted funding for programming, operations, equipment, or endowment-building via the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development’s Arts Endowment Fund, with awards up to US $1,000,000. Eligible groups must be Connecticut-based 501(c)(3)s focused on arts activities and have raised over $15,000 in private donor contributions for two consecutive fiscal years.

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 Howard E. Stark Charitable Foundation, established in 2007, supports small, impactful organizations in the Northeast US. The foundation prioritizes projects that alleviate suffering for people or animals and considers applications from 501(c)(3) organizations outside its usual funding parameters. Key areas of support include education, after-school programs, rehabilitation, arts, nutrition, and emotional support initiatives. The foundation is committed to fostering local community development through thoughtful funding.

Connecticut arts and culture nonprofits, especially those serving Norwalk in Fairfield County, can access funding through the Everett S. Bulkley Jr. Trust to support charitable programming. Organizations working in areas like community development, education, health, human services, environment, and religious activities may also be eligible if they serve this geographic focus.

The Peckham Family Foundation offers Basic Support Grants aimed at enhancing the quality of life in local communities in New York and New England. The foundation supports various programs focusing on education, arts, and civic engagement. Organizations seeking funding must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and demonstrate a commitment to community improvement. The Grants Committee, composed of local non-management members, evaluates applications to ensure alignment with the foundation's mission and values.

The CHEFA Nonprofit Grant Program offers Connecticut nonprofit organizations access to competitive funding for various initiatives. This program supports capital projects and program funding, utilizing CHEFA's resources rather than state funds. By inviting Letters of Interest for FY 2026, CHEFA aims to empower nonprofits to enhance educational, healthcare, and childcare services within the community, fostering growth and development in these vital sectors.

The David, Helen and Marian Woodward Fund (Watertown) provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations in New York and New England. Established in 1974 by Marian Woodward Ottley, the fund aims to fulfill her vision of improving the world for future generations. The fund prioritizes arts, education, health, and human services, with a historical preference for Connecticut organizations. It also considers the religious affiliations of applicants, reflecting Mrs. Ottley's charitable legacy.

The JFNY Grant for Arts & Cultural Exchange supports U.S. non-profit organizations aiming to enhance understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Eligible projects include performances, workshops, and exhibitions, with priority given to those with additional funding and in areas with limited access to cultural events. Applications must be submitted at least one month prior for online projects and three months for others. The grant covers expenses like travel, publicity, and artist fees, and is reimbursed upon project completion.

The VMIG Charitable Giving Fund aims to enhance community quality of life in regions served by Vermont Mutual Insurance Group. This fund supports non-profit organizations focusing on education, youth development, community building, and basic needs such as housing and hunger. Eligible organizations must operate within specific states and provide proof of 501(c)(3) status. The fund reflects a commitment to fostering healthy, vibrant communities through meaningful financial contributions.