Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Connecticut

Connecticut 501(c)(3) nonprofits supporting children, education, or health and human services can apply for community program funding from the Costco Foundation. Eligible organizations may receive monetary support for evidence-based programs with measurable outcomes and strong community collaboration. Applications are reviewed within 4–6 weeks, with decisions based on need, impact, and diversified financial support.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

The Global Impact Cash Grants by Cisco Systems Foundation support innovative early-stage solutions aimed at addressing significant social problems. Targeting nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations, these grants focus on four key sectors: crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate regeneration. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with these areas, particularly serving underserved communities. The foundation seeks to leverage technology for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainability and community resilience through strategic investments.

Nonprofits, educational institutions, government programs, and volunteer fire companies in Connecticut can seek funding for safety, education, and community development initiatives. Focused on these areas, State Farm Companies Foundation invites U.S. organizations to propose projects like disaster preparedness, affordable housing, financial literacy, job training, and K–12 or higher education, including STEM and college-career pathways.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in the U.S. with audited expenses over $2 million can seek large social service grants to expand proven, direct-service programs addressing chronic poverty and economic hardship. Grants from William Randolph Hearst Foundation help Connecticut nonprofits working on housing, food access, job training, legal aid, reentry, or youth development that serve sizable populations and demonstrate sustainability.

Eligible nonprofits and social enterprises in Connecticut working on education, children’s health, or family economic stability can apply for Michael & Susan Dell Foundation grants; awards more than US $50,000 for project support or scaling. Organizations must serve urban low-income children or youth and be located in the U.S., India, or South Africa.

Connecticut nonprofit charities running humanitarian, education, community, environmental, or arts projects can access funding through La Roche’s global Corporate Donations and Philanthropy program. Accredited charities with innovative, high-quality projects that promote sustainable development and engage Roche expertise and employees may be eligible; local Roche affiliates support organizations operating within their own country.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

Connecticut 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on housing, workforce development, hunger relief, community development, arts, environment, or inclusion can apply for Bank of America Charitable Foundation’s sponsorship support. Funding can back programs or events that advance economic mobility and enrich local cultural and social life through regional sponsorships across the U.S.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations seeking program support for education, poverty relief, health, disaster relief, animal welfare, veterans, or spiritual initiatives can apply for Robinson Foundation grants; funding is limited to the Southern U.S. below the Mason-Dixon line. Connecticut nonprofits may find this useful if they also operate eligible programs in that region.

Connecticut nonprofit charitable organizations with 501(c)(3) status can seek funding for community services, environmental conservation, and peacebuilding projects. Connecticut nonprofits can access funding through Dudley T Dougherty Foundation to support initiatives that respect people, life, and the environment, which may benefit smaller organizations looking for modest project or program support.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

Connecticut 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and libraries seeking support for environmental or human services work can access funding through the Lawrence Foundation, with typical awards of US $5,000 - US $10,000. Grants are unrestricted and may be used for general operating or program costs, including reasonable indirect expenses, for organizations headquartered in the U.S. or abroad.

Educational organizations in Connecticut working on college readiness, access, and completion for underserved students can seek support from the Lloyd G. Balfour Foundation. With a mission to advance post-secondary success, the foundation funds New England programs, research, and limited preK–12 reform led by eligible 501(c)(3)s, governments, Tribal entities, and religious organizations.

Nonprofit organizations in Connecticut seeking US $1,000 - US $20,000 for programs or facilities may be eligible for this national small-grant opportunity. With a mission to support impactful community programs, Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation provides U.S. nonprofits with funding for education, arts and culture, health facilities, environmental and wildlife efforts, and services for youth, seniors, and people with disabilities.

Nonprofit microenterprise development organizations, tribes, and higher education institutions supporting rural entrepreneurs in Connecticut can access loans and grants for revolving microloan funds and technical assistance. United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) funding up to US $500,000 supports working capital, debt refinancing, equipment and supply purchases, and real estate improvements for very small rural businesses.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on basic needs, community vitality, or volunteer-driven causes can apply for Ameriprise Financial’s Community Grants to support programs in hunger relief, shelter, self-sufficiency, and cultural or economic development. Connecticut organizations, especially those engaging Ameriprise volunteers or located near priority employee centers, may be competitive applicants.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

Nonprofit, tax-exempt organizations serving Northwest Connecticut communities can receive up to US $5,000 for arts and culture, civic and education, environment, health, or social services projects. Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation offers small and traditional cycle grants for programs, capital needs, capacity building, and innovative collaborations benefiting its 20-town service area.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

Connecticut 501(c)(3) nonprofits improving quality of life for underserved people through economic stability, workforce development, health and social services, or disaster relief may be eligible for funding. O'Reilly Automotive Foundation supports U.S.-based community-benefit organizations in O’Reilly Auto Parts markets with project, general operating, or capital support grants.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Connecticut working on youth education, housing, hunger, or environmental programs can seek funding for impactful community initiatives. Chick Fil A Foundation supports small to large projects through its True Inspiration Awards, offering US $30,000 - US $350,000 for programs serving underserved young people and their families, including food access, housing, and environmental stewardship.

Rural public entities and nonprofit organizations in Connecticut can use these grants to support small and emerging rural businesses through technical assistance, infrastructure, and community economic development projects. Grants from USDA Rural Development help fund activities like training, land and facility development, revolving loan funds, business incubators, and technology-based economic development, with awards ranging from US $10,000 - US $500,000.

Nonprofit organizations addressing urgent basic human needs in northwest Litchfield County, Connecticut can apply for $5,000 - $7,500 from the Fund for the Northwest Corner to support essential services. With a mission to strengthen communities, Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation provides small grants for program costs, expanded services, staffing, and other critical expenses in eligible towns.

Nonprofit organizations in Connecticut with strong, replicable community partnerships may be eligible for the national Community Partnership Award, which honors exemplary collaborations addressing significant social issues across the U.S. Focused on impactful cross-sector partnerships, Mutual of America Foundation invites nonprofits demonstrating measurable community benefits and scalable models to compete for recognition.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.