Best Green Infrastructure Grants in Connecticut

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.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations supporting youth health, education, development, or welfare worldwide can seek up to US $15,000 for programs including environmental education, clean air and water, and related green infrastructure themes. Focused on enriching children’s lives, the DanPaul Foundation also funds projects addressing homelessness, poverty, refugee enrichment, and child advocacy that may benefit communities in Connecticut.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Connecticut nonprofits and other organizations serving marginalized communities with health, education, or disaster relief programs can access funding through Semnani Family Foundation for humanitarian and social services work. International and U.S.-based projects, including those that may incorporate green infrastructure elements into community health or resilience efforts, may be eligible if they align with the foundation’s focus countries and priorities.

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.

Insperity's Corporate Contributions program emphasizes community involvement and corporate citizenship, providing philanthropic grants and event sponsorships to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Eligible organizations must engage Insperity employees or contribute to the communities where they operate. The program aims to support nonprofits in achieving their service goals and enhancing community welfare. Applications must be submitted 90 days prior to events, and funding requests can be made once a year.

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.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

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.

Public and charter middle schools expanding PLTW Gateway engineering and STEM programs in eligible Connecticut counties can apply for US $10,000 to cover PLTW fees, required technology, equipment, supplies, and core training costs. Project Lead The Way partners with Burns & McDonnell to help schools increase student access to hands-on STEM learning starting in 2027–2028.

Public and charter middle schools starting new PLTW Gateway STEM programs in eligible Connecticut counties can receive US $20,000 for participation fees, required technology, equipment, supplies, and PLTW Core Training. Project Lead The Way, with Burns & McDonnell, supports schools serving at least 40% free/reduced-price lunch students, which may benefit green infrastructure or sustainability-focused STEM curricula.

Public and charter schools running PLTW Gateway in eligible Connecticut counties and other listed regions can apply for Project Lead The Way’s US $10,000 grants to expand existing STEM programs. Funding can cover PLTW participation fees, required technology, equipment and supplies, and PLTW Core Training costs, which may support green infrastructure–related STEM curricula.

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.

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 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.

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.

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 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 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.