Best Sustainability Grants in Connecticut

The Connecticut Health Foundation President’s Discretionary Grant provides funding up to $25,000 for projects that aim to improve health equity and access within communities. This grant supports innovative approaches, research on sustainable funding, and efforts to elevate community voices in policy discussions. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and public agencies. This rolling grant opportunity is ideal for time-sensitive projects that address systemic health disparities in Connecticut.

The Town Fair Tire Foundation Grant supports local organizations in New England, focusing on social, health, and educational services. Established in 2000, the foundation emphasizes 'paying it forward' by encouraging grant recipients to assist others in need. TFTF aims to promote self-reliance and community advancement, funding initiatives that create positive change in the lives of individuals and families affected by poverty. Although primarily focused in New England, grants may be considered for aligned programs elsewhere.

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 Cigna Foundation is dedicated to enhancing veteran mental health through strategic partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative targets the alarming issue of homelessness among veterans, with nearly 40,000 veterans without shelter nightly and 1.5 million at risk. By funding evidence-informed programs, the foundation aims to increase access to permanent housing, improve affordability, and provide essential wraparound services, ultimately fostering mental health stability and resilience within veteran communities.

About CHEFA

CHEFA was established by the Connecticut General Assembly in 1965 pursuant to Chapter 187 of the Connecticut General Statutes. Created to strengthen Connecticut’s nonprofit infrastructure, CHEFA provides access to tax-exempt bond financing and other financial tools for healthcare providers, educational institutions, childcare providers, and other eligible nonprofit organizations. Since its founding, CHEFA has issued more than $26.7 billion in tax-exempt bonds and awarded over $53.4 million in grant funding statewide. Through its subsidiary, the Connecticut Higher Education Supplemental Loan Authority (CHESLA), CHEFA has also provided more than $652 million in affordable student loans and over $12.6 million in scholarships to Connecticut students. CHEFA carries out this essential public purpose without the use of state appropriations or taxpayer funds.

Enterprise Capital Grant Program

The Enterprise Capital Grant Program is designed to bolster the capabilities and impact of nonprofit organizations in Connecticut through grants that support strategic initiatives and strengthen balance sheets. Funding for this program is derived from CHEFA’s own resources and does not include any State funding.

The FY 2027 Enterprise Capital Grant Program will support innovative investments toward the launch, stabilization, or scaling of an organization and its vision and mission. Letters of Interest will be considered for initiatives such as:

• Capacity Building and Investment to Enhance Organizational Efficiency
• Program Expansion to Increase Reach and Impact
• Strategic Projects that Promote Sustainability

Organizations are expected to have recently completed (or have plans in the near future to complete) a strategic plan that supports their grant request. Funding will be unrestricted, with the purpose of providing flexible capital to empower organizations to better address societal challenges and achieve their missions more effectively.

General Guidelines

• Awards are for a three-year grant period and range from $100,000 to a maximum of $500,000
• Applicants that have outstanding CHEFA bond issues must be substantially in compliance with all bond documentation for the most recent audited fiscal year and current on all payments due to be deemed eligible.

The Transaction Assistance Grant (TAG) Program, offered by the Connecticut Land Conservation Council, aims to enhance land conservation efforts by providing financial support for transaction-related costs. With applications accepted monthly, this program facilitates timely funding for land trusts, addressing immediate conservation needs efficiently. CLCC's commitment to fostering equity and environmental justice ensures that diverse communities benefit from enhanced access to open spaces and conservation resources, promoting a sustainable future for Connecticut's natural landscapes.

The Connecticut Health Foundation Program Grants support projects aimed at improving health equity for people of color. The foundation focuses on initiatives that influence health systems, funding innovative approaches that can lead to sustainable change. Eligible applicants include organizations with 501(c)(3) status and public agencies. Grants typically exceed $25,000 and prioritize projects that address racial and ethnic health disparities, ensuring community voices are included in policy discussions.

The Thriving Neighborhoods Grant, offered by the Travelers Foundation, aims to strengthen Hartford and St. Paul communities through support for organizations focused on safety, stability, and economic growth. Prioritizing equity and inclusion, funding is directed towards accessible housing, small business development, and disaster resilience initiatives. This grant is exclusively available for nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status in specific locations, fostering vibrant, culturally enriched neighborhoods and enhancing the lives of historically underrepresented groups.

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 Elizabeth M. Pfriem Foundation, established in 2015 in Rye Brook, New York, is committed to enhancing the human condition through grants to 501(c)(3) public charities. Focusing primarily on the greater Bridgeport, Connecticut area, it supports initiatives in education, healthcare, food security, and housing. The foundation prioritizes organizations demonstrating fiscal responsibility and innovative programs with significant impact potential, ensuring sustainable support for vulnerable populations, especially children and families in need.

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

The CTG4CTK Grant shall, assist schools, school districts, childcare centers and homes, and organizations to develop farm-to-school programs that will increase the availability of local foods in child nutrition programs, allow educators to use hands-on educational techniques to teach students about nutrition and farm-to-school connections, sustain relationships with local farmers and producers, enrich the educational experience of students, improve the health of children in the state and enhance the state's economy.

Connecticut Farm to Early Childcare and Education (ECE) Grant

Purpose

Early Childcare Education (ECE) is a critical component of farm to school, yet many operate very differently from K-12 education, thus we have created a separate track for all ECE providers and networks to apply. Applicants under this category will only be evaluated against each other.

Potential Projects

Project Examples (projects can incorporate multiple components; you are not limited to those listed):

• Purchase of Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) shares for students and families.
• Purchase of CT Grown farm products for integration into student snacks/meals with clear educational farm and/or nutrition connection.
• Purchase and installation of raised garden beds or indoor growing systems/container gardens, tools, and equipment for experiential learning.
• Development/expansion of agriculture curriculum for students.
• Establishing and expanding Farm to ECE Networks.
• Professional Development Trainings for staff.
• Family engagement activities such as the creation of recipe books, cooking classes and/or take-home taste tests.
• Farm field trip and farmer visit to school(s)

Funding

Early childcare educators may apply for up to $50,000, and their programs must run for a minimum of twelve (12) months to a maximum of eighteen (18) months.

The PSEG Foundation provides funding for events and initiatives that enhance community safety and environmental stewardship in areas where they operate, such as New Jersey and New York. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits that align with the foundation's focus areas, including sustainable neighborhoods and safety preparedness. The application process is rolling, with a response time of 8 to 12 weeks. Proposals must be submitted online between January 1 and October 31, at least eight weeks before the event.

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 Lloyd G. Balfour Foundation, established in 1973, focuses on educational support for underserved populations in New England. It offers scholarships for employees of the Balfour Company and their families, as well as funding for organizations that provide educational services in Attleboro and surrounding areas. The Foundation prioritizes programs aimed at college readiness and success, particularly for first-generation and low-income students, and encourages multi-year funding requests to enhance nonprofit sustainability.

The CT Humanities Capacity Building Grant Program supports organizations bringing humanities to the public in Connecticut. By providing funding for consultant-led projects, this program enables organizations to improve their strategic planning, audience understanding, and operational efficiency. Eligible projects include board training, financial planning, marketing assessments, and more, fostering a stronger cultural community that reflects the diverse needs of the state.

The Rockfall Foundation is accepting applications for its 2026 Annual Environmental Grants Program, aimed at non-profit organizations, municipalities, and schools. This program supports projects focused on environmental conservation, restoration, and education in the Lower Connecticut River Valley. Eligible expenses include materials, transportation, and program fees. Projects must demonstrate a clear benefit to the environment and align with the foundation's priorities, including environmental justice and youth engagement.

The Environmental Champions Awards, established by The Rockfall Foundation, honor individuals and organizations for their significant contributions to environmental preservation, conservation, restoration, and education in the Lower Connecticut River Valley. Recognizing efforts since 1935, the awards include the Tom ODell Distinguished Service Award and Certificates of Appreciation. Eligible projects must demonstrate a positive impact on local ecosystems and can receive funding ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 to support innovative environmental initiatives.

Long Island Sound Community Impact Fund 2026 RFA

About the Long Island Sound Community Impact Fund (LISCIF)

The Long Island Sound Community Impact Fund (LISCIF) is a partnership among Restore America’s Estuaries, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the Long Island Sound Partnership. The purpose of LISCIF is to provide technical and financial assistance to communities for addressing environmental issues and to improve the quality and accessibility of the Long Island Sound. Technical assistance will be provided through LISCIF and is available to communities/organizations even if one does not submit a proposal for funding.  

This is the third round of LISCIF funding. Up to $1,200,000 in competitive funding will be awarded to support projects in New York and Connecticut. Project proposals must incorporate Actions of the Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (CCMP).  

For LISCIF, the geographic region refers to the Long Island Sound watershed area within New York and Connecticut.

Funding Priorities

LISCIF’s funding priorities are aligned with the CCMP themes and Actions. For 2026, LISCIF’s main funding themes are:

• Clean Waters and Healthy Watersheds  
• Thriving Habitats and Abundant Wildlife  
• Sustainable and Resilient Communities   
• Informed and Engaged Public  

The Long Island Sound Community Impact Fund aims to build capacity for organizations located in communities affected by environmental and human health risks. The Fund seeks to provide technical assistance for communities and support proposals which ultimately improve access to the Long Island Sound, while reducing overall environmental health risks. Eligible projects and activities will be community-driven and address one of the funding priorities below:   

Funding is available for:   

• Projects that result in quantifiable pollutant prevention or reduction.   
• Restoring habitat within the Important Coastal Habitat Types targeted by LIS Partnership.  
• Projects that foster a diverse balance and abundant populations of fish, birds, and wildlife.    
• Public engagement, knowledge, and stewardship.  
• Projects that enhance community resilience and sustainability.   
• Planning and design that set-the-stage for implementation of water quality projects, eligible habitat restoration projects and resilience projects.   
• Community-based science projects.  
• Data management and integration projects.   
• Other similar activities that the applicant proposes, and EPA approves, that are consistent with Section 119 of the Clean Water Act.

The New Alliance Foundation's Emerging Grant Program supports early-stage nonprofit organizations dedicated to addressing local needs in Connecticut. By providing one-year grants, the program aims to help these organizations build capacity, test innovative ideas, and foster community impact. Priority is given to initiatives that align with the Foundation's mission of advancing literacy and dismantling systemic inequities. This program empowers nonprofits to grow and create lasting change in their communities.

The 1772 Foundation Connecticut Matching Grant for Historic Preservation offers up to $10,000 annually for 501(c)(3) non-profits in Connecticut to support preservation projects. Qualifying projects include exterior painting, restoration of finishes, fire detection, and security systems, among others. Funding requires a one-to-one match, and grants are not available for churches, schools, or municipalities. This initiative promotes the preservation of historic sites, contributing to community identity and local economies.

The 1772 Foundation offers Connecticut Historic Preservation Matching Grants of up to $10,000 for various preservation projects, including exterior painting, surface restoration, and structural repairs. To qualify, applicants must be IRS-certified 501(c)(3) organizations and have completed any prior matching grants. Funding excludes schools and churches. Applicants may need to submit recent maintenance and restoration plans to demonstrate site sustainability, ensuring the longevity of these historic structures.

The Preston Community Fund, part of the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, provides grants to support arts, culture, and social needs of Preston residents. It prioritizes projects that promote equity and social justice, encouraging collaboration with 501(c)(3) organizations and governmental agencies. Applicants must be charitable organizations or schools, and grants are not available for individuals or for-profit endeavors. The fund aims to foster innovative programs that benefit the community.

The Moving Image Fund, established by LEF New England, supports independent documentary filmmakers in the region with grants for production and post-production phases. The fund provides up to $15,000 for production and $25,000 for post-production, with a focus on projects that demonstrate originality, quality, and feasibility. Since 2001, it has awarded over $5 million to approximately 450 projects, fostering a vibrant community of filmmakers in New England.

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.

The Long Island Sound Stewardship Fund Grant provides competitive funding to restore and protect the health of Long Island Sound. Aiming to empower underrepresented communities, this grant supports projects that promote sustainability, resilience, and equity within the watershed of Connecticut and New York. With $400,000 available in 2025, proposals should address the Long Island Sound Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (CCMP) and advance environmental justice initiatives.

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.