Best Danbury Grants for Nonprofits in Connecticut

The Fund for Women & Girls Small Grants offers funding up to $5,000 for initiatives supporting women, girls, and non-binary individuals affected by systemic racial inequities. Applications are accepted year-round on a rolling basis, with a streamlined process compared to competitive grants. Eligible organizations must not have received a small grant in the current fiscal year or have been denied within the last 90 days. This fund prioritizes projects that enhance access to resources and promote capacity building.

High school seniors and college students in Danbury, Connecticut and nearby towns pursuing environmental sciences or nursing degrees can access funding through the Center for Scholarship Administration. The Albert W. and Helen C. Meserve Memorial Scholarship awards approximately US $3,000 for tuition, fees, books, and supplies at accredited four-year colleges or universities.

The David N. Lane Trust for Aged & Indigent Women Grant supports quality human services and health care for underserved senior women in Fairfield and New Haven Counties, Connecticut. Established in 1964, the grant prioritizes programs that directly benefit this demographic. However, it does not consider requests for capital projects, ensuring funding is directed toward immediate service needs. Organizations must demonstrate a commitment to serving older women in these communities to be eligible.

The Young Philanthropists Grant Program, hosted by the New Canaan Community Foundation, empowers high school students to engage in philanthropy by exploring local issues and making impact through grantmaking. Participants commit to attending monthly meetings, fundraising events, and an annual grant award celebration. This program not only fosters personal leadership and philanthropic skills but also builds a sense of community among the youth, encouraging them to become active contributors to addressing community needs.

The Annual Main Grant Funding Cycle by the New Canaan Community Foundation aims to enhance the community's quality of life through strategic funding. Supporting diverse areas such as arts, health, human services, seniors, and youth education, the foundation seeks to address local challenges collaboratively. By investing in nonprofit organizations and fostering partnerships, the foundation strengthens community ties and ensures that all residents have access to essential resources and support.

The Nonprofit Resource Training Grant offers up to $1,000 for tax-exempt organizations to send employees to essential training and conferences. This initiative supports community-based groups that serve low- to moderate-income populations and align with The Ready Commitment. By enhancing employee skills, the grant aims to strengthen nonprofits and their impact in the community, ensuring they provide valuable services effectively.

The Pershing Square Sohn Cancer Prize is awarded to early-career scientists in the New York area who are pursuing innovative cancer research. Established by the Pershing Square Foundation in partnership with The Sohn Conference Foundation, the prize offers $250,000 annually for up to three years. With a commitment of over $49 million since 2013, the Alliance aims to accelerate cancer cures by fostering collaborations between academia and industry, providing a unique network and access to vital resources for groundbreaking research.

The Long Island Sound Study Research Grant Program, managed by Connecticut Sea Grant and New York Sea Grant, aims to fund research that supports effective management of Long Island Sound's resources. The program prioritizes actionable research addressing anthropogenic stressors while enhancing ecosystem health. A 50% non-federal match is required for funding, ensuring collaboration and sustainability. Applicants are encouraged to align their proposals with the themes outlined in the Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan, facilitating informed decision-making for the region's environmental future.

CVS Health Foundation: Hometown Fund

The CVS Health Foundation’s Hometown Fund was created to support local nonprofits across Hartford, Connecticut, and the state of Rhode Island – places where our CVS Health teams live, work and care deeply about community health. Through this fund, we support organizations that are making a real difference by expanding access to health care and addressing the everyday factors that shape people’s well‑being, like nutritious food and stable housing.

In 2025, the Hometown Fund awarded $2 million in general operating support grants – $1 million to 20 organizations in Greater Hartford and another $1 million to 20 organizations across Rhode Island. These investments continued our commitment to improving local health and strengthening community support systems, bringing the amount of Hometown Fund grants awarded since 2022 to $8 million. 

The Dammann Fund, Inc. supports charitable organizations in New York City, Southwestern Connecticut, and Charlottesville, VA. Established in 1946, it focuses on mental health programs promoting independent living for the mentally ill and initiatives that enhance parenting skills among young parents. Eligible organizations must not be private foundations and can receive funding for a single program for up to three years, with annual reapplication required.

The Korean American Community Foundation (KACF) offers Community Grants to support organizations in New York and New Jersey addressing economic security for low-income Korean and Asian Americans. Grants of up to $100,000 are available for projects focused on education, workforce development, and community advocacy. Organizations must be registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits with a minimum operational history of six months. KACF prioritizes comprehensive support and measurable outcomes in its funding decisions.

The NFL Foundation Grassroots Program, in partnership with the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), aims to enhance the quality, safety, and accessibility of community football fields. With grants up to $250,000, this initiative addresses the critical lack of safe recreation spaces in low-income neighborhoods, ensuring children and adults have access to well-maintained facilities for gathering and exercise, ultimately fostering community health and well-being.

Stew's Cares Donation program encourages community support by providing donations via gift cards to local 501(c)(3) organizations. The Leonard family believes in giving back and has established a Wishing Well in stores to accumulate funds for charity. To apply for donations, organizations must submit requests in writing on official letterhead at least 60 days prior to their event. This initiative reflects Stew Leonard's commitment to supporting local communities and charities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving Danbury, Connecticut can seek funding for public, charitable, and educational projects, with awards up to Up to US $6,000. The Albert Wadsworth and Helen Clark Meserve Memorial Fund supports initiatives in areas such as arts and culture, education, environment, health, human services, and civic benefit impacting the Greater Danbury area.

Nonprofit organizations running summer camp programs for underserved children in Fairfield or nearby counties can access funding through the Fry W Cotr Uw L P Fry Mem Tr. The Lily Palmer Fry Memorial Grant supports traditional camps, especially those taking urban children out of the city into natural environments, which may include Danbury-area youth programs.

The Hardman Fund for North Adams Grant supports projects that enrich the lives of residents in North Adams, Clarksburg, Florida, and Stamford, MA. Established by the Hardman families, it focuses on arts, historic preservation, health, education, and social services. The Fund prioritizes initiatives addressing emergency needs and encourages collaborations among organizations. Grants vary based on available funding and project significance, aiming to uplift communities facing economic challenges.

The FCB Annual CommunityFirst Grant Program, established by the First County Bank Foundation, aims to support nonprofit organizations focusing on community development, affordable housing, and educational enrichment in Fairfield County. With over $10 million awarded since 2001, the Foundation prioritizes agencies benefiting low-to-moderate income populations. Grants range from $2,500 to $5,000, with a commitment to addressing community needs and ensuring fiscal responsibility. The Foundation's contributions reflect its dedication to community well-being.

Danbury, Connecticut first responder organizations can access funding through Enbridge for safety equipment, professional training, and safety education programs. Eligible fire departments, EMS and rescue services, emergency management organizations, 9-1-1 centers, ambulance services, and law enforcement near Enbridge operations may receive US $1,000 - US $10,000 to strengthen community safety capabilities.

Nonprofit and community organizations in Danbury, Connecticut working on safety, youth development, social services, or environmental stewardship may be eligible for Enbridge community support. Focused on safe, vibrant, and sustainable communities, Enbridge invites groups near its operations to request US $1,000 - US $10,000 in donations, sponsorships, or in-kind support.

The Quinnipiac River Fund Grants, founded in 1990, aim to enhance the environmental quality of the Quinnipiac River and New Haven Harbor. Annually, over $100,000 is allocated to projects focusing on pollution reduction, ecological research, public education, and habitat restoration. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt organizations and their fiscal agents. Priority is given to local nonprofits. This fund supports initiatives that significantly improve the health of the river and its surrounding watersheds.

The CFGNH Responsive General Operating Support Grants provide flexible funding for nonprofits in the Community Foundation for Greater New Haven's twenty-town region. Grants up to $50,000 are available for one to three years, enabling organizations to direct resources to their most pressing needs. Eligibility requires at least three years of active programming and an operating budget of $100,000 or more. Organizations with current GOS grants ending after December 31, 2024, are ineligible to apply.

The F. D. Rich Foundation Grants support charitable organizations in lower Fairfield County, Connecticut, focusing on arts, education, healthcare, and social services. Established under section 509(A) of the Internal Revenue Code, the foundation has contributed over $8 million to various non-profits since its inception. This funding aims to improve the quality of life for residents in the Stamford area and enhance community well-being through diverse initiatives.

The Great Hollow Nature Preserve & Ecological Research Center offers annual grants of up to $5,000 to support biological research focused on conservation. Established in 2016, this non-profit organization encourages studies that may occur within its 825-acre preserve or at other sites. Eligible applicants include students and professionals affiliated with educational institutions or non-profits, with grants covering essential research expenses and offering shared housing during fieldwork.

Nuvance Health is committed to enhancing community well-being through strategic sponsorships. By partnering with nonprofit organizations, Nuvance Health promotes initiatives that align with its mission of providing exceptional healthcare. Eligible organizations must be not-for-profit, located near Nuvance Health facilities, and support the health system's goals. However, Nuvance Health does not sponsor individuals, political events, or groups lacking direct community benefit. This commitment reflects Nuvance's dedication to fostering health and wellness in the Hudson Valley and Western Connecticut.

Nonprofit organizations working on community services, health, education, or environmental programs in Danbury, Connecticut (Fairfield County) can apply for TD Charitable Foundation regional grants of more than US $5,000. With a mission to improve quality of life, TD Charitable Foundation prioritizes inclusive programs serving diverse, historically underserved, and low-to-moderate income communities.

The Neighborhood Builders Program, supported by Bank of America, empowers 501(c)(3) nonprofits through a two-year leadership development initiative. Participants receive funding, training, and networking opportunities to enhance their impact in communities. Since its inception, the program has invested over $346 million, training more than 4,000 leaders. The initiative focuses on advancing social mobility and economic opportunities, ensuring affordable housing, and fostering resilient communities. This program is vital for nonprofits aiming to strengthen their leadership and community engagement.

The Katharine Matthies Foundation Grant aims to enhance educational, human services, and health care for underserved communities, particularly in the Lower Naugatuck Valley of Connecticut. Established in 1987, it prioritizes organizations preventing cruelty to children and animals. Grants typically last one year, with occasional multi-year support, focusing especially on the towns of Seymour, Ansonia, Derby, Oxford, Shelton, and Beacon Falls.