Best Grants for Science Research in Connecticut

Connecticut 501(c)(3) organizations conducting science-related environmental or medical research can access funding through Cornelia T Bailey Charitable Trust for general operating or program support. Eligible projects include environmental ingenuity to improve water quality and medical research on high-mortality, under-funded diseases such as pancreatic and colon cancer, provided they align with the foundation’s mission.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations supporting children, education, or health and human services, including those based in Connecticut, can apply for Costco Foundation’s charitable contributions to strengthen community programs. Funding is for monetary requests only and may support evidence-based initiatives with measurable outcomes and broad community collaboration in areas where Costco operates.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

Connecticut 501(c)(3) nonprofits running STEM education, environmental, scientific research, or entrepreneurship programs can apply for Glenn W Bailey Charitable’s grants, awarding US $20,000 - US $35,000 for program support. Organizations advancing science learning or research in Connecticut, especially for underserved communities, may be strong candidates.

Educational institutions, government programs, and eligible nonprofits in Connecticut can seek funding for safety, education, and community development initiatives that create long-term impact. Focused on these areas, State Farm Companies Foundation invites organizations to propose projects like K–12 STEM, disaster preparedness, financial literacy, or neighborhood revitalization that strengthen local communities.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) cultural institutions with audited expenses over $2 million can seek funding for arts and science programs that engage broad audiences, including youth, and demonstrate measurable impact. William Randolph Hearst Foundation supports program, capital, and limited general or endowment needs for museums, performing arts organizations, arts schools, and related institutions, which may include STEAM-focused initiatives in Connecticut.

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

Connecticut nonprofits and other eligible 501(c)(3) organizations can seek funding for health, education, and community initiatives that may include science-related research or STEM programming. Focused on advancing equitable care and education, Labcorp Charitable Foundation invites U.S.-based applicants supporting healthcare access, food pantries, human services, and STEM education, with requests reviewed in March and September.

Connecticut accredited charities running science education, humanitarian, or community programs can access funding through Roche, supporting projects that promote sustainable development and engage Roche expertise. Organizations conducting STEM education or related science initiatives may be eligible if projects involve local Roche affiliates and allow active collaboration with local authorities and partners.

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.

Connecticut 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on community development, basic needs, workforce education, arts, environment, or inclusion can apply for Bank of America Charitable Foundation’s sponsorship support. Funding may back programs that preserve neighborhoods, address hunger and shelter, or strengthen workforce readiness, which can include science-related initiatives connected to these community priorities.

The Cowles Charitable Trust Grant supports initiatives aligned with the philanthropic legacy of Gardner Cowles, Jr. Focused on education, social justice, health, and the arts, it favors organizations recognized as 501(c)(3) by the IRS. The Trust encourages applications for general operating support and seeks partnerships rather than being the sole funder. Notably, it considers applications from established partners and supports efforts in Downstate New York and South Florida, with a preference for diverse funding sources.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits conducting education or science-related programming in Connecticut can apply for Hansen Family Foundation grants, with awards ranging from US $1,000 - US $10,000. Funding supports work with children, education access, environmental initiatives, and related humanitarian efforts, and may benefit organizations engaged in biology, earth science, or similar research-focused projects.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) wildlife conservation nonprofits can receive support to develop storytelling projects that highlight their real-world impact. Jesse W Couch Charitable Foundation’s Storytelling Grant funds communications and narrative work connected to preservation, education, or wellness initiatives, which may benefit Connecticut organizations conducting science and conservation-related research or programs.

Informal education organizations in Connecticut, such as museums and similar settings, can apply for NASA Connecticut Space Grant Consortium’s Informal Education Grant to support aeronautics, aerospace, and STEM-focused activities. Funding may help create exhibits or curricula tied to NASA initiatives, deliver K–12 presentations, or develop after-school and weekend STEM programs that complement science research education.

Connecticut science research organizations working on community services, environmental conservation, or peacebuilding can access funding through the Dudley T Dougherty Foundation. Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organizations; projects with strong environmental or Earth science components may be especially relevant to this opportunity.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, public schools, and qualified local government entities supporting education, environment, entrepreneurship, or community enrichment may be eligible for community programs in Connecticut and other GP communities. Georgia-Pacific Foundation prioritizes projects near its manufacturing facilities that enhance long-term well-being and sustainability in local areas it serves.

Connecticut 501(c)(3) public charities, public schools, and libraries seeking support for environmental or human services work can access funding through the Lawrence Foundation, with typical awards of US $5,000 - US $10,000. Organizations conducting science or earth science-related environmental programs may request unrestricted operating or project support, including reasonable indirect costs up to 50%.

With a mission to help impactful community programs, the Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation provides Connecticut nonprofits with US $1,000 - US $20,000 for museums, cultural and performing arts, education, health facilities, environmental and wildlife efforts, and community services. IRS-qualified organizations conducting science-related education or community-based research initiatives may be eligible.

Young faculty-rank scientists and engineers conducting life, physical, or chemical sciences research at invited U.S. institutions, including those in Connecticut, can receive US $250,000 in unrestricted support for outstanding, innovative work. The Blavatnik Family Foundation’s National Awards recognize nominees based on quality, impact, novelty, and promise, with additional finalists also honored.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on basic needs, community vitality, or volunteer-driven programs can apply for Ameriprise Financial’s community grants, including organizations in Connecticut. Funding supports hunger relief, shelter and supportive housing, adult self-sufficiency, community and economic development, and cultural enrichment, with priority for sites engaging Ameriprise employee and advisor volunteers.

Connecticut organizations and partners working on sustainable farming and food systems can apply for the Northeast SARE Farming Community Grant, with awards from US $50,000 - US $250,000. Grants from Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education support community-level social science research and education on marketing, production, climate, and economic and social sustainability across the Northeast region.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits improving economic stability, workforce readiness, health, social services, or disaster relief in O’Reilly Auto Parts communities may be eligible for project, operating, or capital support. O'Reilly Automotive Foundation supports community-focused programs that aid underserved individuals and families; Connecticut organizations with relevant health or science-adjacent initiatives may fit these priorities.

Nonprofit organizations leading strong community partnerships, including those in Connecticut and working in science research, can apply for national recognition and support from the Mutual of America Foundation’s Community Partnership Award. Focused on impactful, replicable collaborations, this award honors U.S. nonprofits that measurably improve communities and address significant social issues through equal public, private, or social sector partnerships.

Research institutions, community and nonprofit organizations, and American lobster industry partners in Connecticut can seek funding for collaborative marine and fisheries research projects. Focused on actionable science for the American lobster fishery, Mid-Atlantic Sea Grant invites multi-partner teams (not single investigators) to apply for up to US $100,000 to address ecological, regulatory, or socio-economic challenges.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.