Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Connecticut

Mental Health Intensive Residential Program

RFP Summary

The State of Connecticut, represented by the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS), is soliciting proposals to develop mental health intensive residential program(s) designed to transition individuals from extended stays in state facilities to the community, or to expand current mental health intensive residential programs designed to transition individuals from extended stays in state facilities to the community. These programs will be staffed 24 hours a day/7 days per week, 365 days per year, and will support between four (4) to eight (8) individuals depending on the size of the physical environment. These programs will provide residential support, community supervision, skill building, and evidence-based interventions that support recovery and successful transitions to the community. Referrals to these programs will include individuals with severe and persistent mental illness transitioning out of state facilities with a history of forensic involvement including problem sexual, fire-setting, and aggressive behaviors.

RFP Purpose

This RFP is intended to result in selection of a qualified Contractor(s) to create and manage supervised mental health intensive residential programs (hereafter referred to as the “Program”) with individualized services to assist four (4) to eight (8) adults in developing independent living skills and preparing for transition to the community following: 1) incarceration; or 2) long term stays in a state facility

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.

About Us

Agriculture has a rich history in Connecticut and plays a major role in our state’s economy. The Department of Agriculture (DoAg) is dedicated to protecting this legacy.

Through thoughtful and comprehensive programs, we foster a healthy economic, environmental, and social climate for agriculture in CT. We manage programs to:

• Develop, promote, and regulate farms and businesses
• Protect agricultural and aquacultural resources
• Enforce laws for domestic animals
• Promote understanding of agriculture’s diversity, cultural heritage, and contribution to CT’s economy

Local Food Purchase Assistance Grant

A statewide grant program funded through S.A. 25-1 to improve local food access and agricultural supply chain resiliency. To learn more check out the press release below.

The purpose of CT DoAg’s LFPA grant program is to provide CT Grown farm products to underserved communities, at no cost to the individual, while maintaining and improving the CT agricultural supply chain resiliency. This is done through:

Establishing and strengthening partnerships across the food supply chain to ensure access to fresh, nutritious, culturally appropriate food in underserved communities.*

Purchasing from small ** Connecticut producers to build and expand market access and opportunities.

CT DoAg has a total of $1,550,000 available to award through a competitive grant process. The selected applicant pool shall be considerate of geography and reach to ensure distribution and sourcing throughout the state.

Funding for the 2026 LFPA Grant is provided by the State of Connecticut in Special Act 25-1 through the Budget Reserve Fund. 

• Glenn W. Bailey: STEM Scholars Grant
• Glenn W. Bailey Foundation STEM Sprouts
• Glenn W. Bailey Foundation STEM Stars
• Glenn W. Bailey Foundation Teen Tech Competition

Our Mission

Our Mission is to foster pathways to success in globally competitive STEM careers for students in the United States.

We want to help ensure that the United States remains a global thought leader in all forms of science, math, and technology by promoting projects which encourage, enhance and advance STEM education in this country and to promote projects which provide career opportunities for individuals with STEM education backgrounds.

The Foundation, formed in 2022, seeks to give students and educators more resources for developing and participating in STEM-based, hands-on learning. As a Foundation, we want to support STEM education programs that are making a difference for students regardless of their background or resources. We want every student in America to have enough exposure to STEM from an early age and to transform our attitudes around STEM subjects. We are working towards changing the narrative that promotes STEM subjects as challenging and difficult to the idea that a broad knowledge of STEM education is imperative for socioeconomic and economic freedom as an adult, for all.

Programs & Partners

STEM Encouragement 

It all begins with an idea. We support educational opportunities ranging in age from children through post-doctoral candidates and beyond to promote STEM learning and initiatives that seek to increase awareness and success in STEM careers in the United States.

Environmental & Climate

We will support Innovative Environmental Projects (IEPs) that utilize interdisciplinary research to identify and address critical environmental problems with cutting-edge, innovative solutions that are scalable and replicable.

Scientific Research

Contribute to advancements in biomedical research and innovation to accelerate the progress in medical research and drug treatment development - specifically for high-mortality, under-funded areas of need such as pancreatic and colon cancers.

Urban & Community Entrepreneurship

Advancing entrepreneurship in moderate-income and underserved communities to help business leaders of today and tomorrow prosper. The focus of this program is to help foster economic empowerment by investing in organizations focusing on one individual, one job, and one business at a time.

The Honda USA Foundation provides funding to support mobility initiatives that empower individuals, particularly those facing disabilities, by removing barriers and expanding opportunities. Focused on sustainable change in underserved communities, the Foundation encourages applications for programs in education, infrastructure, and technology that align with its commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Eligible organizations must be based in the U.S. with appropriate tax-exempt status and can apply for multiple funding opportunities while adhering to specific eligibility criteria.

The CT Humanities: Public Presentation Implementation Grant supports the execution of humanities projects such as exhibitions and public programs. It is designed for projects ready for implementation and requires applicants to demonstrate significant humanities scholarship. The grant encourages proposals that clearly define goals and highlight the intersection of humanities with other fields like arts or STEM. This grant is an opportunity for projects that enhance public understanding of humanities themes.

The Connecticut Arts Endowment Fund Grant supports nonprofit arts organizations in Connecticut by providing unrestricted funding to enhance their operations. Organizations eligible for funding must demonstrate significant donor contributions and maintain compliance with state regulations. The grant incentivizes fundraising efforts by matching contributions based on a formula, ensuring that arts initiatives receive the necessary financial backing to thrive. This program aims to cultivate long-term sustainability within Connecticut's arts sector.

The Institutional Support for Capacity Building Grant for Historic Preservation Nonprofits, offered by the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, aims to enhance the operational capacity of local nonprofit historic preservation organizations. This grant provides funding based on organizational budgets, ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 per year. By fostering greater stability and capabilities, the program supports the effective management and planning of historic preservation initiatives, ultimately benefiting the communities these organizations serve.

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 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 National Sea Grant Law Center is inviting proposals for the Coastal Resilience Program to research laws and policies addressing coastal resilience challenges such as sea level rise and flooding. With a funding cap of $150,000 over two years, this initiative aims to assess the effectiveness of existing policies and promote informed decision-making in coastal management. Up to two projects will be selected for funding, supporting innovative solutions to enhance community resilience against environmental threats.

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 Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers RFP aims to support community learning centers that enhance students' academic and social skills outside regular school hours. These centers provide enriching activities and a safe environment for students, enabling consistent support for their development. The initiative focuses on serving the same students over time and includes educational opportunities for families, reinforcing community engagement and learning.

The L.B. Research and Education Foundation Grant Program supports U.S.-based nonprofits focusing on innovative education and health solutions for underserved populations. Eligible organizations can apply by submitting a 400-word concept paper, and selected applicants may receive funding ranging from $10,000 to $75,000. The Foundation prioritizes projects that foster critical thinking and creativity, address health disparities, and encourage collaboration. There are no application deadlines, promoting year-round engagement.

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.

CT Humanities: Project Grants

Project Grants support the planning or execution of humanities projects, such as exhibitions, public programs, and interpretive digital media projects. The implementation stage is intended for projects that are ready to bring to fruition.

Receipt of a Project grant in the Planning Phase does not guarantee a Project grant in the Implementation phase. However a competitive Project grant application for the Implementation phase will discuss the research, planning, and development work conducted leading up to the grant request.

All Project Grant proposals must demonstrate significant humanities scholarship and content and articulate clearly defined goals that will be achieved during the project.

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.

The FCIDD Nonprofit Project Grants are designed to support 501(c)(3) organizations working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across various states. Grants are awarded for projects that enhance accessibility, provide educational opportunities, and promote community engagement. The foundation encourages collaboration with local Civitan clubs, particularly in October and March funding rounds, while also offering open applications in July. The initiative aims to empower nonprofits to improve the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities.

Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

The FCIDD was founded for the purpose of providing support to organizations that serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Mission Statement: The Foundation supports organizations which enhance the lives of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities by promoting research, projects, education and advocacy. 

Nonprofit Project Grants

The Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (FCIDD) funds 501(c)(3) organizations working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities of all ages, primarily in the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Virginia. 

Funding Priorities

• Grants will be awarded for the purpose of primarily benefiting, including, or increasing accessibility for individuals with intellectual or development disabilities.
• Grants may be awarded for scholarships or training personnel in the care and education of individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities. 
• Grants shall mainly be distributed to a Charity whose primary purpose or whose project is to support individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. A Charity which has a project to benefit individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities based on financial need shall be awarded the grant money based upon its own objective criteria and without any special preference to members of Civitan or members of their family.

Grant Categories

A grant application typically fits into one of the following categories: Accessibility & Engagement; Educational Spaces; Program Area Improvements; Outreach and Education 

Accessibility & Engagement

For museums, parks, other public spaces without a specific I/DD focus wanting to make property or equipment improvements and additions to better include visitors with I/DD.

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 CT Library Buildings and Construction Grant, offered by the CT State Library, supports public libraries in Connecticut by funding construction projects that expand usable space or enhance existing facilities. Grants cover up to 50% of project costs, with a maximum of $2 million. Eligible projects include new buildings, renovations, and improvements for accessibility or compliance with safety codes. A minimum grant of $30,000 is available for projects totaling $60,000 or more, ensuring vital resources for local libraries.

The Agricultural Enhancement Grant, previously known as the Farm Viability Grant, offers matching funds to Connecticut municipalities and agricultural organizations for projects that enhance agricultural viability. The program supports initiatives that align with the state's agricultural goals, ensuring funding does not exceed $49,999. This grant is crucial for fostering sustainable farming practices and preserving farmland in Connecticut, promoting economic growth and community development.

The Environment Pillar Award by Honda supports nonprofit organizations and schools in the U.S. focused on sustainability. Grants aim to reduce environmental impact through programs in decarbonization, clean energy, and efficient resource use. Eligible projects must align with Honda's mission and primarily benefit communities where Honda associates live and work. Organizations can apply for up to two grants, provided they meet specific eligibility criteria, including tax-exempt status under the IRS.

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) offers funding through its CERCLA 128(a) Grant Program, targeting municipalities and non-profit organizations. With a total funding pool of $750,000, applicants can receive up to $250,000 for assessment and an additional $250,000 for cleanup projects. DEEP prioritizes initiatives that enhance park space, greenways, and recreational areas, as well as properties designated for nonprofit use.

The Small Business Transportation Technical Assistance Center (Region 1) is funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation to provide critical support for small businesses in the transportation sector. This initiative, under NOFO Number OST/OSDBU-2026-SBTTAC-Region 1-FY2026-1, aims to establish a center that offers technical assistance and resources for small and disadvantaged businesses, ensuring their growth and success in the transportation industry.

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.

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.