Best Grants for Capital Funding in Connecticut

The American Savings Foundation provides capital grants to support projects aligned with its mission, prioritizing direct service programs for children, youth, and families in New Britain and Waterbury. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and can request funding for one-time capital needs, typically up to $10,000. The Foundation emphasizes measurable impact and community benefit, making it a vital resource for local nonprofits aiming to enhance the quality of life in their communities.

The Connecticut Health Foundation offers sponsorship for health-related events that reflect its mission. Funding supports various events like conferences, forums, and community gatherings, with a focus on partnerships that provide recognition and promotional opportunities. Eligibility is limited to 501(c)(3) organizations or public entities, ensuring the events benefit Connecticut residents. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with foundation priorities and potential to enhance visibility for CT Health.

The Edwards Community Endowment Program (ECEP) offers matching grants to support nonprofit organizations in northwest Connecticut in establishing or augmenting endowment funds. Funded by the Marion Wm. and Alice Edwards Fund, it provides $1 for every $4 raised, with a maximum match of $20,000. Organizations must raise at least $16,000 to qualify for initial matching funds, promoting sustainable endowment growth through strategic fundraising and board engagement.

The Hartford Foundation for Public Giving offers regular grants to 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Greater Hartford, aiming to address systemic issues and enhance community well-being. Organizations can apply for one grant every three years, focusing on program/project support, continuation, capital improvements, or general operating support. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that tackle critical human needs, promote equity, and align with its goal of dismantling structural racism, fostering a resilient and inclusive Hartford community.

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 Rural Business Development Grants in Connecticut provide essential funding opportunities for small and emerging businesses in rural areas. With two types of grants available—Opportunity and Enterprise—these funds can be utilized for various projects, including technical assistance, feasibility studies, and community economic development. Eligible applicants include rural public entities, such as towns and nonprofit corporations. The program aims to enhance the economic landscape while prioritizing smaller requests for funding.

What does this program do?

It provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:

• To help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.
• Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.

Microenterprise Development Organizations must demonstrate experience in managing a Revolving Loan Fund, or:

• Certify that it or its employees have received education and training from a qualified microenterprise development training entity so that the applicant has the capacity to manage such a revolving loan fund.
• Demonstrate that it is actively and successfully participating as an intermediary lender in good standing under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloan Program or other similar loan programs as determined by the Administrator.

 What kind of funding is available?

• Grants are available to provide technical assistance to rural micro-entrepreneurs or microenterprises, up to $205,000 annually.
  • Funding at the requested level is not guaranteed, and at least 15 percent matching funds are required.

• Loans of $50,000 to $500,000 may be used for establishing a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund managed by the Microenterprise Development Organization.
  • Total aggregate debt is capped at $2.5 million.

What are the loan terms?

• Maximum term is 20 years.
• Two-year payment deferral.
• Must establish a loan loss reserve fund.

What terms are required on loans to ultimate recipients?

• Up to $50,000.
• Fixed interest rate.
• Limited to 75 percent of project cost.

How may the funds be used?

Microlenders may make microloans for qualified business activities and expenses including, but not limited to:

• Working capital.
• Debt refinancing.
• Purchasing equipment and supplies.
• Improving real estate.

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 SBM Charitable Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for residents in Hartford, Tolland, and Windham Counties through funding programs in health, education, human services, housing, and the arts. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt or municipalities, focusing on community benefit. The Foundation prioritizes educational scholarships and health programs, emphasizing direct services and broad-based community projects. Applications are accepted annually, promoting accessibility and support for local initiatives.

The Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation supports tax-exempt organizations under IRS Section 501(c)(3) in four key areas: human needs, environmental stewardship, education, and community vitality. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $15,000, with two application cycles each year. Notably, funding is unavailable for organizations without 501(c)(3) status or those located outside Dominion's service areas. This foundation aims to enhance community welfare through targeted support for impactful programs.

The Men & Boys' Fund Grant, established in 2016, aims to enhance the lives of men and boys in Connecticut's Bristol, Burlington, Plainville, Plymouth, Southington, and Wolcott areas. Grants support nonprofit organizations focused on education, health, leadership, and workforce readiness. Eligible applicants must serve males of any age and provide strong documentation of community impact. The Fund prioritizes self-sufficiency and requires follow-up reports from previous grantees to ensure continued support and accountability.

The Women & Girls’ Fund, established by the Main Street Community Foundation in 2001, supports organizations that empower women and girls in Connecticut. With a focus on senior services, confidence building, and mental health, the fund prioritizes projects that enhance self-sufficiency and promote leadership skills. Collaborations among organizations are encouraged, fostering community connections and addressing critical needs. Grants are available for program and capacity-building initiatives that align with these goals.

The Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation (NCCF) offers Cycle Grants to enhance community life through arts, education, environment, health, and social services. Grants are available for small projects up to $1,500 and traditional projects over $1,500, with an average award of $5,000. NCCF encourages innovative, collaborative projects serving residents in its 20-town area, fostering local philanthropy and volunteerism.

The Washington Trust Charitable Foundation offers grants to 501(c)(3) organizations in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and southeastern Connecticut. They focus on funding programs that enhance affordable housing, economic development, youth services, health, arts, and environmental initiatives. Multi-year grants may support capital projects and campaigns that directly benefit local communities. The foundation emphasizes projects that align with their mission to improve the quality of life in the areas they serve.

The Seherr-Thoss Foundation Grant, established in 1991, primarily supports cultural, educational, health-related, religious, and civic initiatives within the Town of Litchfield, Connecticut. The foundations, initiated by Sonia and Hans Seherr-Thoss, have funded numerous local projects, including capital improvements for community organizations and essential equipment for volunteer services. They welcome applications from exempt organizations that align with their mission to enhance the community's well-being and preserve its heritage.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

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 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 Food Access Infrastructure Initiative Grant, offered by Farm Credit East, provides funding up to $50,000 to organizations aimed at enhancing food security in the Northeast. Eligible projects include improving produce handling, expanding storage capacity, and enhancing distribution capabilities. Non-profit organizations within Farm Credit East's territory are encouraged to apply for support in capital projects that improve food distribution infrastructure.

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 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 Resilient and Connected Appalachians Grant Program, offered by The Nature Conservancy, provides up to $100,000 for projects that acquire land and easements throughout the Appalachian region. This program emphasizes equitable conservation, aiming to support historically marginalized communities and enhance access to nature while addressing climate change impacts. Projects must demonstrate community engagement and align with the program's goals to protect vital habitats and foster resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

The Anne S. Richardson Fund Grants offer support for charitable purposes, focusing on organizations in Ridgefield, Connecticut. Funding priorities include initiatives that assist lower-income individuals, promote women's independence, support the LGBTQ+ community, foster youth development, and encourage environmental conservation. This fund, established in the mid-1960s, aims to enhance community wellbeing and is available to public charities classified under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS.

Section 5310 Program - Enhanced Mobility for Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities

Section 5310 is a federal grant program intended to improve mobility for seniors and individuals with disabilities by removing barriers to transportation service and expanding transportation mobility options. It is administered in the state of Connecticut by the Connecticut Department of Transportation.

It supports transportation services planned, designed and carried out to meet the special transportation needs of seniors and individuals with disabilities in all areas of Connecticut and provides funding for both traditional capital investment and nontraditional investment beyond the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) complementary paratransit services.

The Section 5310 grant program is open to private nonprofit organizations, states or local government authorities, and operators of public transportation. Typical projects include the purchase of accessible vehicles, mobility management programs, travel voucher programs, and operating support of volunteer driver programs or demand response services.

The Cigna Group Health Equity Impact Fund aims to reduce health disparities by supporting local nonprofits in Hartford, CT, and St. Louis, MO. With an annual commitment of $3 million, the Fund focuses on enhancing access to culturally appropriate healthcare, transportation, and mental health services. By addressing root causes of health inequities, the Fund empowers communities to improve overall health outcomes and foster sustainable change in underserved areas.

The Gladys Brooks Foundation supports innovative projects in libraries, education, hospitals, and clinics. Grants focus on resource endowments, capital construction, and equipment aimed at improving public access to information and educational resources. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations located in specific states and demonstrate that projects will be funded primarily by the grant. Applications for direct salary support or research projects are not accepted.

Arbor Rising Grant, established in 2010, is a NYC-based nonprofit providing unrestricted multi-year funding and capacity-building support to nonprofits focused on alleviating poverty. The grant process occurs every three years, with the next round in 2025 being invitation-only. Eligible organizations must demonstrate high potential and effective leadership, typically operating on a modest budget. Arbor Rising prioritizes applicants from the NYC metro area while expanding to cover the lower 48 US states.