Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits in Connecticut

The Kroger Foundation is dedicated to uplifting communities through significant charitable contributions, having donated over $1.9 billion in the past six years. Their focus on combating hunger through the Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative exemplifies their commitment to social impact. Annually, they provide over $300 million to nonprofit organizations aligned with their mission, promoting health, education, and disaster relief while fostering diversity and inclusion. This initiative reflects Kroger's belief that strong communities are a shared responsibility.

The National Coastal Resilience Fund (NCRF) aims to protect coastal communities through nature-based solutions, enhancing habitats while addressing the growing threats of climate change. Established in 2018, the fund focuses on restoring vital ecosystems like marshes and reefs to mitigate flooding impacts. With rising sea levels and increasing storm intensity, NCRF invests in community-led projects that foster resilience, ensuring both people and wildlife can adapt to changing environmental conditions.

The Music Drives Us Performance Grant supports talented musicians in New England by providing funding for free concert series in schools, after-school programs, and public spaces. With a mission to enhance music education, the grant allows musicians to receive compensation for their time and expenses while delivering educational experiences to underserved communities. Organizations can apply for grants up to $10,000, ensuring that music remains an accessible and enriching part of children's lives.

The Connecticut Department of Public Health offers Civil Money Penalty (CMP) Fund Grants to support innovative projects that enhance the quality of life and care for nursing facility residents. These grants utilize funds from penalties imposed on non-compliant nursing homes, aimed at quality improvement initiatives outside normal operations. Eligible applicants include various organizations, such as consumer advocacy groups and state agencies, fostering community engagement and improved care standards.

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 WCGMF Director’s Discretionary Fund Grant offers financial support of up to $10,000 for community projects that promote equity in education, combat racism and poverty, and are initiated by communities of color. This fund is ideal for organizations that do not qualify for the Equity Grants Program, enabling them to pursue impactful initiatives that align with the mission of the William Caspar Graustein Memorial Fund.

The North Star Fellowship, managed by The Mind Trust in partnership with LEAD, offers exceptional school leaders a chance to develop and launch new public charter schools in Connecticut. This program provides a competitive salary, healthcare, and personalized coaching, fostering collaboration among diverse education leaders. Fellows will enhance their leadership skills and receive ongoing support throughout the school launch process, ensuring high-quality educational opportunities for Connecticut families.

The Waste Management Charitable Contributions Program supports initiatives that enhance environmental stewardship, sustainability education, and community vitality. With a commitment to civic pride and economic development, the program prioritizes organizations that address local needs and promote sustainable practices. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations that focus on public purposes, while ineligible requests include funding for operating costs and individual fundraising events. This initiative fosters a collaborative approach to community betterment.

The Dairy Farm Improvement & Modernization Grant supports dairy farmers in enhancing their operations for sustainable success. This funding aids in modernizing outdated systems and implementing innovative solutions that improve farm viability, milk quality, and worker conditions while addressing climate impacts. Eligible applicants include dairy farmers, cooperatives, and service providers across Northeast states. Awards range from $15,000 to $100,000, requiring a 25% match contribution.

The ASP Conservation Small Grants program is dedicated to supporting primate conservation efforts. It invites proposals for conservation research or related projects, including education, with awards up to $3500. This initiative encourages ASP members, especially those in habitat countries, to submit impactful projects that contribute to broader conservation goals. The program emphasizes funding for local salaries, research supplies, and educational materials, ensuring the sustainability of primate conservation efforts.

The Breast Cancer Alliance offers Screening and Support Service Grants aimed at enhancing survival rates and quality of life for individuals affected by breast cancer. These grants specifically fund outreach programs that provide education, counseling, and diagnostic services for underserved populations in Connecticut and Westchester County, NY. The grant term lasts for one year, beginning April 1, 2026, supporting vital breast cancer screening and diagnostic services.

The Mazamas is committed to exploring and preserving mountain environments in the Pacific Northwest through research grants. These grants support nonprofit research that aligns with the Mazamas’ mission, encouraging proposals from graduate and undergraduate students. Successful applicants often conduct field studies that enhance understanding of the region's natural features. Notably, the Mazamas also welcome innovative research ideas that may fall outside traditional grant guidelines, promoting a diverse range of scientific inquiry.

The Albert G. and Olive H. Schlink Foundation, established in 1966, has significantly impacted Ohio's nonprofit sector by increasing its annual grant distribution from an initial $500 to over $1.4 million in 2023. The Foundation prioritizes organizations with ties to Erie and Huron Counties and emphasizes thoughtful evaluation of all grant applications. With a focus on community needs, it continues to honor the founders' legacy while adapting to the evolving demands of local nonprofits.

The Anderson-Rogers Foundation Grant supports U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations focused on environmental protection, animal welfare, climate change mitigation, and social support. Established in 2001, this family foundation prioritizes innovative projects and general operating support for small organizations facing financial constraints. Note that applicants must first submit a letter of inquiry, as the foundation does not fund scholarships or grants to individuals or religious organizations, nor does it support organizations outside the U.S.

The Stimulating Hematology Investigation: New Endeavors (SHINE) program aims to enhance nonmalignant hematology research aligned with the goals of the NIDDK, NIA, and NHLBI. It invites R01 grant applications focused on innovative and early translational hematology topics, fostering growth in this critical research area. Key deadlines for applications span from February 2025 to October 2027, allowing for both standard and renewal submissions.

HOME Investment Partnerships Program - State of Connecticut

History:

Program was authorized by the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act of 1990 (P.L. 101-625). The HOME program is a federal block grant program that provides funding to states and localities to be used exclusively for affordable housing activities to benefit low-income households. HOME funds are awarded as loans and/or grants to eligible applicants.

Purpose:

HOME is the largest federally-funded program administered by the DOH and is designed to create affordable housing for low and moderate-income households. The HOME program is designed to:

• Provide quality, affordable housing for Connecticut residents
• Strengthen communities
• Expand the capacity of non-profit housing development organizations and
• Leverage private sector participation

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 Breast Surgical Oncology Fellowships, funded by the Breast Cancer Alliance, aim to cultivate talented surgeons into compassionate breast specialists. This prestigious one-year fellowship, running from August 1, 2026, to July 31, 2027, offers a grant of $85,000. Eligible institutions must be accredited and located in Connecticut, New Jersey, or New York, and only US citizens with completed general surgery residencies can apply. The initiative seeks to enhance surgical expertise and improve breast cancer outcomes.

The American Savings Foundation offers scholarships primarily to Connecticut students based on financial need, academic achievement, and community involvement. With nearly 400 scholarships awarded annually, this program supports high school seniors, current college students, and nontraditional adult learners pursuing higher education or vocational training. Applicants must reside in Connecticut and demonstrate a commitment to their educational goals. Awards are renewable for up to five years, fostering long-term educational growth and success.

The Call for Kindness Grant, offered by Riley's Way Foundation, empowers young leaders aged 13-23 to launch impactful social projects focused on kindness and community connection. With grants up to $5,000, recipients receive essential mentorship, coaching, and community support. This initiative has already benefited over 3,500 youth nationwide, promoting values of empathy and social change. Applicants can pursue projects in diverse areas, including environmental justice, ensuring a broad impact in their communities.

About NASA CTSGC

NASA Connecticut Space Grant Consortium (CTSGC) is a federally mandated grant, internship, and scholarship program that is funded as a part of NASA Education. There are Space Grant Consortia in all 50 states, plus Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico. NASA CTSGC, in an effort to encourage broader participation in NASA research programs, was formed in 1991 by the following post-secondary education institutions: Trinity College, University of Connecticut, and University of New Haven with the University of Hartford as the lead institution.

Undergraduate Research Grant

Undergraduate Research Grants are available to support and promote undergraduate research with faculty advisors at their institution. A student is eligible for one award per academic year.

New applicants will be given priority over recent awardees with all grants. All research must be conducted in person and on-site.

Award Opportunities – Students may be preparing for senior design projects, honors research, or searching for an educational experience, which is consistent with the mission of NASA as exemplified by its Mission Directorates.

About NASA CTSGC

NASA Connecticut Space Grant Consortium (CTSGC) is a federally mandated grant, internship, and scholarship program that is funded as a part of NASA Education. There are Space Grant Consortia in all 50 states, plus Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico. NASA CTSGC, in an effort to encourage broader participation in NASA research programs, was formed in 1991 by the following post-secondary education institutions: Trinity College, University of Connecticut, and University of New Haven with the University of Hartford as the lead institution.

Student Project Grant

The purpose of these grants is to allow students to purchase items needed for senior capstone, undergraduate research, or extracurricular club design projects including materials, electronic components, chemicals, etc. NASA CTSGC recognizes these small grants will allow students to choose projects that are beyond the normal funds allocated by departments, colleges, and universities.

Any group or individual project that is consistent with the mission of NASA as exemplified by its Mission Directorates, is eligible.

Funds may be used for supplies and materials only. Funds may not be used for travel, equipment/computers, entertainment, entry fees, tuition, salaries, fringe benefits, or indirect costs.

About NASA CTSGC

NASA Connecticut Space Grant Consortium (CTSGC) is a federally mandated grant, internship, and scholarship program that is funded as a part of NASA Education. There are Space Grant Consortia in all 50 states, plus Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico. NASA CTSGC, in an effort to encourage broader participation in NASA research programs, was formed in 1991 by the following post-secondary education institutions: Trinity College, University of Connecticut, and University of New Haven with the University of Hartford as the lead institution.

Student-led Group Travel Grant

To encourage small groups of students to travel to NASA facilities to use their unique resources and/or present Space Grant and NASA funded research at conferences the NASA CTSGC awards travel grants. This grant is awarded on a rolling basis based on available funds.

This award is not to attend a conference for networking or non-presenting purposes.

About NASA CTSGC

NASA Connecticut Space Grant Consortium (CTSGC) is a federally mandated grant, internship, and scholarship program that is funded as a part of NASA Education. There are Space Grant Consortia in all 50 states, plus Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico. NASA CTSGC, in an effort to encourage broader participation in NASA research programs, was formed in 1991 by the following post-secondary education institutions: Trinity College, University of Connecticut, and University of New Haven with the University of Hartford as the lead institution.

Student Travel Grant

To encourage travel to NASA facilities to use their unique resources and/or present Space Grant and NASA funded research at conferences the NASA CTSGC awards travel grants.

This award is not to attend a conference for networking or non-presenting purposes.

The CT Grown for CT Kids Grant supports K-12 schools in Connecticut to enhance Farm-to-School programs, promoting local food in child nutrition initiatives. Established in 2021, this grant program provides up to $50,000 for projects lasting up to 24 months. It aims to improve children's health, enrich education through hands-on learning about nutrition, and foster connections with local farmers, ultimately benefiting the state's economy.

CT Grown for CT Kids

A statewide grant program to help establish and further Farm-to-School programs through CT schools. Passed in the 2021 legislative session, the CT Grown for CT Kids Grant is a statewide grant program to help establish and further farm-to-school initiatives. The maximum grant award will be $50,000 for a project of up to 24 months in duration.  

The Red Sox Foundation provides programmatic grants to support non-profits focused on health, education, and recreation in New England. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $10,000, with larger requests by invitation only. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and can only apply once per year. The foundation emphasizes its commitment to making a positive impact in the community, although it cannot support every request due to the volume of applications.