Best Grants for Special Education in Connecticut

Connecticut 501(c)(3) nonprofits with capital needs for education, human services, or arts and culture programs can seek up to US $10,000 for one-time, direct-service-related projects. With a mission to improve quality of life, American Savings Foundation prioritizes children, youth, and families, with focused capital support in New Britain and Waterbury that may benefit special needs education providers.

Connecticut 501(c)(3) nonprofits seeking general operating or program support can access funding through the Cornelia T Bailey Charitable Tr for work in arts, education, environmental ingenuity, medical research, and veterans initiatives. Special education programs that fit these priorities and serve Connecticut residents may be eligible to apply via a letter of inquiry.

501(c)(3) nonprofits with at least one year of status and innovative approaches to social problems can apply for Creag Foundation support; awards fund new solutions in human services and related fields. Connecticut organizations developing creative special education or disability-focused programs may be eligible, but funding is by invitation, starting with a letter of inquiry.

Connecticut 501(c)(3) organizations helping underprivileged students with college entrance exams or trade-school pathways can access funding through Cornelia T Bailey Charitable Trust. Grants up to US $25,000 support small-group SAT/ACT prep, intensive counseling, FAFSA and application assistance, and mentoring for at-risk or economically deprived youth exploring college or skilled trades.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving children’s health, education, development, or welfare can apply for up to US $15,000 from the Dan Paul Foundation to support youth-focused programs. Connecticut special education providers working with early childhood development, child advocacy, or related enrichment for youth may be eligible if their projects align with the foundation’s mission areas.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

Nonprofit tax-exempt organizations in Connecticut seeking support for vulnerable children, educational opportunities for low-income students, Alzheimer’s research, or environmental projects may be eligible for funding. The Goodnow Fund, based in Darien with a focus on Fairfield County, provides grants for general operating expenses and special projects, but does not accept unsolicited proposals.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) cultural institutions with audited expenses over $2 million can seek program, capital, or limited general support for impactful arts and science programming from the William Randolph Hearst Foundation. Connecticut organizations offering arts education, STEAM initiatives, or artist development that reach large constituencies may be eligible under this national Culture Grant program.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in the U.S. addressing chronic poverty through direct social services can apply for Hearst Foundation’s Social Service Grant, with awards of more than US $100,000 for program, capital, or general support. Grants from William Randolph Hearst Foundation help Connecticut special education providers that also deliver qualifying social service programs serving large populations and demonstrating strong impact and sustainability.

The Labcorp Charitable Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) entity, aims to enhance healthcare access and education for all. With grant opportunities focusing on food programs, healthcare services for underserved populations, and STEM initiatives, it seeks to support community health and well-being. Organizations eligible for funding must be U.S.-based and hold tax-exempt status. Requests are reviewed biannually, in March and September, to foster impactful community projects.

Connecticut 501(c)(3) nonprofits offering education, workforce readiness, human welfare, arts, or civic programs in New London or Windham Counties can receive funding for programs or general operating support. Nordson Corporation Foundation prioritizes results-oriented educational initiatives, including early childhood, K–12, academic enrichment, and job readiness that strengthen local communities and promote self-sufficiency.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

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.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

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.

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 

Educational Spaces

For I/DD serving school programs with a 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) attached needing property improvements or equipment/resource purchases to better serve their students with I/DD.

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 

Program Area Improvements

For I/DD specific 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) looking to add/improve programming potential via equipment and property improvements, updates and additions.

Educational organizations in Connecticut working on college readiness, access, and success for underserved students can seek support from the Lloyd G. Balfour Foundation. With a mission to advance higher education opportunities, the foundation funds New England programs, research, and limited preK–12 reform that help under-represented students enter and complete 2- or 4-year postsecondary credentials.

Organizations providing health, human services, or housing support in Connecticut, especially around Litchfield and nearby towns, can apply for the Lena Benas Memorial Fund. Grants prioritize underserved residents, with special consideration for housing maintenance and human services for needy populations; special education providers that fit these priorities may be eligible.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving Connecticut communities with programs in economic stability, workforce development, health and social services, or disaster relief may be eligible for project, operating, or capital support. O'Reilly Automotive Foundation supports quality-of-life initiatives for underserved people where O'Reilly Auto Parts operates, which may include organizations providing services to special education students and their families.

Grants from Katharine Matthies Foundation help Connecticut education, human services, and health care organizations serving underserved populations in the Lower Naugatuck Valley. Eligible nonprofits must serve Seymour, Ansonia, Derby, Oxford, Shelton, or Beacon Falls, with one-year awards common and occasional multi-year support; programs for children or animal welfare may receive special consideration.

With a mission to support educational, cultural, human services, and health programming, the Anna Fitch Ardenghi Trust provides Connecticut nonprofits with one-year grants serving underserved residents of New Haven. New Haven-based organizations, especially those focused on arts or youth-related programming, may be eligible to support special needs or broader education initiatives.

Connecticut education, health, and human services nonprofits serving underserved populations can seek one-year program funding, including special needs education initiatives. Mabel F Hoffman Charitable Trust focuses on organizations in Connecticut, with special consideration for those serving Hartford, and does not support capital projects or typically fund start-ups.

Non-sectarian nonprofits helping disadvantaged people become self-reliant, including those working in education and disability services, can apply for Gupta Family Foundation funding in Connecticut and globally. With a mission to foster self-reliance, Gupta Family Foundation provides US $5,000 - US $250,000 to smaller organizations addressing poverty, disability, social exclusion, or disaster relief.

Connecticut education and child welfare organizations can apply for Elizabeth Carse Foundation’s one-year grants, awarding up to US $10,000 for program-specific work rather than general operations or capital projects. Programs that train elementary and secondary teachers to help children achieve better standards of living, including those serving special education students, may be especially competitive.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and municipalities in Connecticut can seek funding for education, health, human services, housing, and arts programs that benefit residents of Hartford, Tolland, and Windham Counties. SBM Charitable Foundation supports initiatives such as academic enrichment, scholarships, literacy, and community programs, which may include services for students in special education or with special needs.