Best Green Infrastructure Grants in Connecticut

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Connecticut that support children, education, or health and human services can apply for monetary grants from Costco Foundation. Programs must demonstrate clear community need, measurable outcomes, collaboration, and diversified funding. Organizations with green infrastructure or environmental projects that also advance child or family well-being may be eligible.

The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

Connecticut nonprofits and NGOs using technology for climate resilience, crisis response, education, or economic empowerment projects can access funding through Cisco Systems Foundation, with awards up to US $100,000. Programs must primarily serve economically underserved communities and focus on innovative, tech-enabled solutions, which may include green infrastructure or green jobs components.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in the U.S. addressing chronic poverty through direct social services can apply for more than US $100,000 to support programs, capital projects, or general operations. Grants from William Randolph Hearst Foundation help large, well-established groups, including those in Connecticut, expand proven efforts in housing, economic development, food access, legal aid, reentry, and youth development.

Connecticut nonprofits and other charitable organizations can seek funding for health, education, or community initiatives that expand equitable care and education. Focused on community health and welfare, the Labcorp Charitable Foundation invites programs such as food pantries, healthcare for underserved populations, STEM education, and healthy lifestyle initiatives that may complement green infrastructure and resilience efforts.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

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.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

Municipalities and nonprofit organizations in Connecticut can receive funding to create or enhance public urban green spaces, including green infrastructure like rain gardens, bioswales, and native plantings. Focused on urban environmental improvements, the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection invites projects in distressed, targeted investment, or environmental justice communities that clearly provide public access and enjoyment.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

U.S. 501(c)(3) nonprofits running basic needs, community development, or volunteer-driven programs can apply for Ameriprise Financial’s community grants, which may benefit Connecticut organizations. Funding supports hunger relief, shelter and supportive housing, adult self-sufficiency, neighborhood revitalization, small business support, and arts and cultural enrichment, with priority for projects engaging Ameriprise employee or advisor volunteers.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, public schools, and qualified local government entities near Georgia-Pacific manufacturing communities can seek funding for education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental programs, including in Connecticut. Georgia-Pacific Foundation supports projects that enhance long-term community well-being and sustainability in areas where its facilities operate.

Public and charter schools starting new PLTW computer science programs in select Connecticut counties and other eligible U.S. regions can apply for Project Lead The Way’s grants, awarding US $20,000 over two years for program launch costs. Funding can cover PLTW participation fees, required computers, equipment, supplies, and core training expenses.

Public and charter schools in eligible Connecticut counties that already offer PLTW Computer Science can seek funding to expand courses, sections, or teacher training. Focused on STEM education, Project Lead The Way invites these schools to apply for US $10,000 to cover PLTW fees, required technology, equipment, supplies, and core training costs for 2027–2028.

Public and charter schools launching new PLTW Engineering programs, including those in eligible Connecticut counties, can receive US $40,000 to cover participation fees, required technology, equipment, supplies, and PLTW Core Training costs. Project Lead The Way and Burns & McDonnell support schools serving at least 40% free/reduced-price lunch students over two academic years.

Connecticut public and charter elementary schools serving at least 40% free or reduced-price lunch students can access funding through Project Lead The Way to start new PLTW Launch STEM programs. Schools in eligible Connecticut counties may receive up to US $20,000 for participation fees, required devices, equipment, supplies, and PLTW Core Training costs over two years.

Connecticut public and charter elementary schools offering PLTW Launch and serving at least 40% free or reduced-price lunch students can access funding through Project Lead The Way to expand STEM programming. Grants of US $5,000 may cover PLTW participation fees, required devices, equipment, supplies, and teacher training, which can complement broader green infrastructure and sustainability education efforts.