Best Physics Grants in Connecticut

The Global Impact Cash Grants by Cisco Systems Foundation support innovative early-stage solutions aimed at addressing significant social problems. Targeting nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations, these grants focus on four key sectors: crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate regeneration. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with these areas, particularly serving underserved communities. The foundation seeks to leverage technology for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainability and community resilience through strategic investments.

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 Nordson Corporation Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing the quality of life in Connecticut's New London and Windham Counties through education and community support. Since its inception, the Foundation has invested over $60 million in grants, with a commitment to empowering local non-profits that foster educational opportunities, human welfare, civic engagement, and arts and culture. With a strong emphasis on measurable impact, the Foundation aims to create sustainable, vibrant communities by supporting initiatives that promote long-term self-sufficiency and community enrichment.

Our Mission

We are dedicated to empowering organizations that promote the arts and develop programs designed to inspire, educate, and engage. Our vision is a world where the arts are not viewed as a luxury or elective, but as a vital part of every individual’s development and well-being.

Through strong community partnerships, we harness the transformative power of the arts to elevate educational outcomes, foster creativity, and enhance quality of life.

We believe in the synergy that arises when artists, educators, advocates, and creatives from all disciplines—musicians, museum professionals, actors, writers, and teachers—come together and collaborate. It is scientifically proven that the arts play a fundamental role in youth development, nurturing healthy brain function, social growth, and emotional resilience.

Aligned with our mission, we also support initiatives that protect and utilize nature as a source of enrichment and healing. Conservation and beautification efforts are not only essential to environmental health but also to individual and community well-being. Research consistently shows that time spent in nature supports both physical and mental health, especially for children. We are committed to partnering with organizations that recognize the vital connection between a thriving natural environment and a thriving population.

Equally important is our dedication to supporting veterans. We recognize the sacrifices made by servicemen and women and believe they deserve meaningful pathways to recovery, healing, and renewed purpose. That’s why we invest in programs that provide therapeutic support, service animals, respite opportunities, and community-centered initiatives that help veterans and their families thrive. Veterans’ well-being is not only a moral imperative but also a cornerstone of a strong, resilient community.

As a charitable foundation, we remain committed to supporting initiatives that drive progress, improve lives, and create lasting, positive impact across the arts, the environment, education, and veteran support.

The P/Arts Program

The P/Arts Program was created to strengthen connections between the philanthropic, arts, and education communities, fostering meaningful collaborations that enrich learning and inspire growth.

Eligible applicants must be accredited 501(c)(3) organizations that integrate visual and/or performing arts education into their work. Through P/Arts, we seek to support programs that:

• Revitalize learning by enhancing and transforming outdated public school curricula.
• Motivate and inspire students of all ages, encouraging curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning.
• Empower educators by deepening professional development opportunities for teachers, professors, and childcare providers.
• Bridge the gap between school and home, creating continuity in learning and support for children and families.
• Apply evidence-based, arts-based instruction proven to strengthen both academic and personal outcomes.
• Address inequities in education by helping to close the achievement gap and expand access to high-quality learning opportunities.

At its heart, the P/Arts Program reflects our belief that the arts are a powerful driver of educational transformation, unlocking potential not just in the classroom but in entire communities.

The Survey and Planning Grants program, managed by the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, offers funding ranging from $1,000 to $20,000 for various historic preservation projects. Eligible activities include historic designation reports, municipal preservation planning, and pre-development studies. Applications can be submitted anytime, and grants are awarded during monthly meetings of the Historic Preservation Council. It is essential to contact the funder to discuss project eligibility and funding availability before applying.

About the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation, formerly known as the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, is the largest community foundation in Connecticut. We serve 800,000 residents across 29 towns that make up Greater Hartford. Community is at the heart of what we do. We want to make this region a more inclusive and equitable place to live, work, and start a family.

OAHSTRIDES Fund

The Greater Hartford Gives Foundation is pleased to announce that it is accepting applications for grants through the OAHSTRIDES Fund. OAHSTRIDES is the philanthropic arm of Orthopedic Associates of Hartford, PC. They work with under-resourced populations in the Greater Hartford Community to provide the support needed to build essential life skills and live healthier lifestyles. Their Mission is to improve physical, emotional, and mental health with an emphasis on movement and mobility.

For the 2026 grant cycle, OAHSTRIDES is focused on supporting veterans in the Greater Hartford community through adaptive physical activity, mental wellness initiatives, and opportunities for meaningful community connection and reintegration. We recognize that many veterans carry visible and invisible impacts of service, including physical injuries, chronic pain, mobility challenges, post-service transition difficulties, and social isolation.

Through this funding opportunity, OAHSTRIDES seeks to partner with organizations that honor veterans’ experiences and are committed to empowering them through movement-based and wellness-centered programs. We aim to support initiatives that foster resilience, restore confidence and connection, and promote lifelong health and well-being for those who have served.

Programmatic and project-specific requests are strongly encouraged.

The Pew Biomedical Scholars Program offers significant funding of $300,000 over four years to support early-career researchers in biomedical sciences. The program encourages innovative and impactful research that contributes to human health, requiring nomination from one of the 212 participating institutions. Candidates must hold a doctorate, run an independent lab as an assistant professor, and demonstrate exceptional promise. This program fosters collaboration and annual meetings for scholars to present their findings.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

The Blavatnik National Awards for Young Scientists honor exceptional faculty-rank scientists and engineers in the U.S. Recognizing achievements in Life Sciences, Physical Sciences & Engineering, and Chemical Sciences, each Laureate receives $250,000 in unrestricted funds. Nominations come from a select group of institutions and previous Laureates, emphasizing innovation and impact. The awards celebrate the future potential of young researchers, fostering diversity in STEM fields. The ceremony takes place annually in New York City.

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection offers grants to combat aquatic invasive species, which threaten local ecosystems and economies. Funded by the Connecticut Lakes, Rivers, and Ponds Preservation Account, eligible applicants include state agencies, municipalities, and non-profits. Projects can focus on restoration, research, and public education regarding invasive species management. This initiative promotes the protection of Connecticut's natural water resources and biodiversity, ensuring sustainable environmental practices.

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, led by the National Arbor Day Foundation, encourages colleges and universities to foster green spaces and enhance community forests. By meeting five key standards, institutions can achieve national recognition for their commitment to tree care and environmental stewardship. This program not only beautifies campuses but also promotes energy efficiency, mental health, and student engagement in environmental education, ultimately benefiting both students and the planet.

The Jack Maerz and Mary Rago Future of Healthcare Scholarship Fund, established by Rich Rago and Beth Maerz, supports Hartford students pursuing healthcare degrees amid a critical nursing shortage. This fund honors their families' legacies and strives to provide educational opportunities for all, regardless of financial background. With a focus on equity in education, the fund aims to empower the next generation of healthcare professionals. Annually, 1-2 scholarships are awarded to deserving candidates.

The Kosciuszko Foundation offers Tuition Scholarships for American students of Polish descent pursuing graduate studies in the U.S. Scholarships can provide up to $12,000 for full-time studies, including master's and Ph.D. programs. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal residents with Polish heritage and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. This program aims to foster educational exchanges and cultural understanding between the U.S. and Poland, supporting various fields of study.

About the Foundation

The MxCC Foundation Supports CT State Middlesex and Meriden Campuses

The purpose of the Middlesex Community College Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) public charity incorporated in Connecticut, is twofold:

• To support the college and its students by receiving, managing, and distributing funds for scholarships and other educational purposes, and
• To generate and strengthen communication and collaboration between the college and the Foundation and business, industry, professional, civic, and educational leaders in the communities served by the college—all of Middlesex County, Meriden and Wallingford in New Haven County, and Rocky Hill in Hartford County.

Removing financial obstacles that bar or inhibit student access to education is the Foundation’s driving force. Scholarships address not only the growing need for financial assistance, but also our perennial wish to celebrate student achievement.

The MxCC Foundation’s charge is to develop external resources that contribute support to student and academic programs, as well as efforts that foster student success.

Hugh and Judith Cox Scholarship

Hugh Cox was an MxCC Foundation corporator and former board member as well as a former trustee of the Connecticut Community Colleges board. Hugh, now passed, and Judith Cox are proud alumni parents.

The Foist Family Perseverance Scholarship Fund, established by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, aims to support adult learners and graduating high school seniors from Berkshire County pursuing careers in healthcare and sciences. With a focus on clinical and research fields such as nursing and occupational therapy, this fund seeks to empower individuals in their educational and professional journeys, promoting economic mobility and high quality of life in the community.

The Guido's Fresh Marketplace Scholarship Fund, established by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, honors the legacy of Guido Masiero, a dedicated educator and entrepreneur. This scholarship aims to support graduating high school students from public schools in Pittsfield, Lenox, or Great Barrington, Massachusetts, who are pursuing higher education in physical education, health, wellness, or business studies. The fund reflects the foundation's mission to enhance community opportunities and economic mobility.

The Ralph J. Torraco Scholarship for Therapy Sciences, provided by the UNICO Foundation, awards two scholarships valued at $2,500 each to full-time students pursuing degrees in Therapy Sciences, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, audiology, and speech-language pathology. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and continue their studies in the 2026-2027 academic year. This scholarship promotes educational advancement within the community.

The Saunders Health Fund for Naugatuck, managed by the Connecticut Community Foundation, provides grants to support mental and physical health initiatives for residents in Naugatuck. Emphasizing community well-being, the fund backs projects that improve access to quality healthcare, foster collaboration among local resources, and promote awareness of preventive health practices. Priority is given to organizations that empower individuals and address health disparities across the Foundation's 21-town service area.

The Gilbert W. Mead III Memorial Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports students from Southeastern Connecticut who show talent in the Arts and have financial need. Offering an award of $500, the scholarship aims to assist these students in pursuing their educational goals. Priority is given to those with physical limitations or disabilities, reinforcing the foundation's commitment to inclusive education since 1983.

The Comcast NBCUniversal Foundation offers Local Impact Grants to nonprofit organizations in 11 markets, providing $225,000 to support local programs addressing community issues. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits with a revenue exceeding $100,000 and must operate in one of the specified television markets. The grants aim to empower youth through education, promote diverse storytelling, and enhance community engagement. This initiative underscores Comcast's commitment to fostering inclusion and equitable opportunities for underserved communities.

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.

Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation

Since 1987, we have strengthened communities through philanthropy and leadership. We channel generosity where it is needed, bringing together resources and passion to tackle our region’s most pressing issues and create lasting change.

The Region We Serve

Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation serves Berkshire, Columbia, northeast Dutchess and northwest Litchfield counties. This unique area where New York, Connecticut and Massachusetts meet contains 2,200 square miles of natural beauty and small-town charm that is home to nearly 230,000 people.

Fund for the Northwest Corner

Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation established the Fund for the Northwest Corner in 2000 to improve the quality of life for the residents of northwest Litchfield County, Connecticut: Cornwall, Falls Village, Goshen, Kent, Norfolk, North Canaan, Salisbury, Sharon, and Warren.

For more than two decades, the Fund has supported innovative community-based initiatives that strengthen our communities and create lasting impact.

In 2026, the Fund for the Northwest Corner is launching its first competitive grant cycle, reflecting its commitment to addressing emerging community needs. 

As reductions in state and federal funding intersect with rising demand for essential services, local organizations are adapting quickly. This grant cycle is designed to provide timely support while maintaining close dialogue with the nonprofits serving our towns, ensuring that charitable resources remain aligned with the region’s most pressing priorities.

By combining local insight with Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation’s trusted stewardship and grantmaking infrastructure, Fund for the Northwest Corner deploys resources strategically across critical areas of need.

Together, we aim to strengthen the local safety net and support the well-being of our community members now and into the future.

Types of Support

Requests will be considered for new or existing projects and programs. 

Support may include program expenses, expanded service delivery, staffing, supplies, or other critical costs directly tied to maintaining or strengthening essential services.

Requests may support existing programs, expanded services, or essential operational costs necessary to stabilize and sustain services during this period of increased strain.

Grants are intended to meet the most urgent needs and to be deployed within nine months of the notification deadline. Applicants should demonstrate the capacity to expend funds within this timeframe.

The Tabor Foundation Fund, managed by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, offers scholarships for residents of northwest Litchfield County, northeast Dutchess County, and southeast Columbia County who are pursuing careers in healthcare. Established in 1987, the foundation aims to strengthen communities through philanthropy, innovation, and equity. Preference is given to students caring for dependents or attending local schools, ensuring opportunities for economic mobility and a high quality of life for all.

The Region One Athletic Fund for Individuals Grant supports students in grades 7-11 in the Region 1 School District, enabling them to enhance their athletic skills and experiences. The Fund prioritizes projects that go beyond traditional funding to develop sportsmanship, teamwork, and discipline. Eligible applicants include students, teachers, and community members proposing initiatives like coaching, training camps, and equipment purchases. Preference is given to programs benefiting students who intend to remain in the Region 1 schools.

The Harold & Rebecca H. Gross Foundation Grant aims to support charitable organizations that assist individuals with physical disabilities, promoting their adjustment to various environments. Funded by Bank of America, the grant focuses on areas including human services, education, health care, the arts, and the environment. This initiative seeks to uplift underserved communities and enhance their quality of life through targeted funding and resources.