Best New London County Grants for Nonprofits in Connecticut

The Career and Technical Education Secondary Supplemental Enhancement Grant, established under Perkins V, aims to enhance the academic and vocational skills of secondary students in CTE programs. With funding ranging from $25,000 to $50,000, it supports initiatives that foster partnerships among educational institutions and industry, ensuring students gain the skills needed for high-demand careers. This grant promotes innovative educational practices and increases opportunities for underrepresented populations, contributing to workforce development and economic competitiveness.

The Nellie Mae Event Sponsorship Fund supports one-time events that promote education justice and racial equity in New England. Organizations targeting local communities, with annual budgets under $2 million, can apply for funding for events scheduled in 2025 or early 2026. The foundation prioritizes public entities and 501(c)3 educational organizations, ensuring equitable access to educational opportunities for all students. Note that operational costs and online fundraising are not eligible for funding.

The Nordson Corporation Foundation Grant supports educational programs that enhance community quality of life. Focused on fostering self-sufficiency and job readiness, the Foundation values strong relationships and employee engagement. By funding diverse non-profit initiatives, it aims to ensure that all children have access to quality education and that communities thrive through enhanced educational opportunities. Currently, applications are invited only, aligning with their commitment to impactful community partnerships.

The Beatrice McEwen Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports New London County students who demonstrate academic achievement and financial need. Founded in 1983, CFECT aims to address community needs through philanthropy, focusing on equity, social justice, and inclusivity. With over $100 million awarded in grants, the Foundation works to empower youth and create lasting change. This scholarship exemplifies CFECT's commitment to uplifting historically marginalized voices and fostering a more equitable future.

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.

The TD Bank Community Sponsorships Program, supported by the TD Charitable Foundation, provides funding for events and activities that positively impact communities from Maine to Florida. This initiative aims to enhance community awareness and foster partnerships among diverse groups, promoting economic development, cultural enrichment, and social responsibility. Organizations can apply for funding to support community-oriented programs, with applications reviewed quarterly. It's essential to submit applications at least 90 days before the event deadlines.

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on supporting organizations that empower communities through basic needs, income creation, and stable housing. By investing in health and job opportunities, they aim to enhance economic mobility for low- and moderate-income families. Their partnerships target vulnerable populations, ensuring equitable access to resources that foster community vitality and resilience. This initiative emphasizes the importance of stable housing as a foundation for personal and communal growth.

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 Bernard & Alice Chalecki Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports students pursuing studies in health-related fields, including graduate education. Established to enhance educational opportunities, this scholarship reflects the Foundation's commitment to addressing community needs and promoting equity in access to healthcare education. With a strong focus on uplifting marginalized voices and fostering positive change, the scholarship aims to empower future health professionals in the region.

The Barbara LaMarche Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports students from New London County, especially those from Stonington and Stonington High School. It is aimed at individuals who demonstrate a passion for music through participation in school or external music programs. Preference is given to those intending to pursue music studies post-high school, fostering the development of young musicians in the community.

The Armelde Pitre STEM Leadership Scholarship, established by the Eastern Connecticut Workforce Investment Board and retired Pfizer Senior Director Armelde Pitre, aims to enhance the STEM workforce in Eastern Connecticut. It is designed for high school seniors who plan to pursue a STEM major at an accredited institution, addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in manufacturing and pharmaceuticals. This initiative underscores the importance of education in creating a sustainable and equitable future.

The Alfred G. & Imogen M. Moss Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports Southeastern Connecticut undergraduate students demonstrating academic excellence and financial need, alongside graduate students pursuing international relations. Established in 1983, CFECT has awarded over $100 million in grants, focusing on equity and inclusivity to uplift marginalized voices and foster positive change in the community.

The Aldo Valentini Scholarship, established by the New London Water Authority and sponsored by Veolia Water North America, supports high school seniors and college undergraduates from East Lyme, New London, or Waterford. This scholarship focuses on students pursuing studies in water resource preservation or related fields. It honors Aldo Valentini's legacy as a dedicated public servant. The Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, founded in 1983, manages this scholarship as part of its mission to address community needs and promote equity.

The Preston Community Fund, part of the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, provides grants to support arts, culture, and social needs of Preston residents. It prioritizes projects that promote equity and social justice, encouraging collaboration with 501(c)(3) organizations and governmental agencies. Applicants must be charitable organizations or schools, and grants are not available for individuals or for-profit endeavors. The fund aims to foster innovative programs that benefit the community.

The Alcino M. Almeida Scholarship, established by The Day, honors Alcino Almeida's dedication to the community. It is available to graduating high school seniors from various towns in Connecticut, allowing them to pursue any field of study. Financial need is considered, making this scholarship an opportunity for students to further their education while recognizing their academic achievements. The Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut administers the scholarship, promoting equity and access in education.

The Housing for Everyone Grant Competition, part of the 2026 Initiative, aims to support eviction prevention in low-to moderate-income communities. This 20th annual initiative recognizes the destabilizing impact of eviction and displacement on families, which leads to job loss, school disruptions, and health issues. By funding innovative organizations, the competition seeks to provide stability for renters, enabling them to stay in their homes and communities.

The PLTW Engineering Program Expansion by Burns and McDonnell aims to enhance STEM education in eligible communities. This initiative supports schools in expanding their existing PLTW Engineering programs, providing students with hands-on experiences and essential skills. The program focuses on empowering students through new courses and teacher training, ensuring access for underrepresented populations. By fostering excitement around STEM, Burns and McDonnell is committed to shaping the future workforce and enhancing educational opportunities in critical areas.

The PLTW Engineering program, in partnership with Burns and McDonnell, aims to enhance STEM education by providing grants to public and charter schools in specific counties. This initiative empowers students to engage with real-world challenges through hands-on learning experiences. Eligible schools must offer PLTW Engineering courses, ensuring access to quality education for students from diverse backgrounds. With a total grant of $40,000 over two years, this program seeks to inspire the next generation of engineers and innovators.

The PLTW Computer Science program, supported by Burns and McDonnell, aims to enhance STEM education in various communities by funding schools to implement PLTW courses. This partnership promotes student engagement with real-world challenges, preparing them for future careers in technology. With a total grant of $20,000, schools must offer multiple PLTW courses over two years, ensuring access to quality education for underserved populations.

Burns and McDonnell, a 100% employee-owned firm, partners with Project Lead The Way (PLTW) to enhance access to STEM education. By expanding PLTW Computer Science programs in local schools, they aim to engage students in real-world challenges and equip them with essential skills. Eligible schools must be located in specific counties and serve a majority of students from low-income backgrounds. This initiative supports the growth of STEM education, fostering a brighter future for communities through enhanced learning opportunities.

Charter Oak Federal Credit Union's Community Sponsorships support various programs and events in New London and Windham counties, focusing on economic development and social well-being. By partnering with local organizations, Charter Oak aims to enhance community life and increase visibility for its credit union. This initiative invites proposals that not only benefit the community but also showcase Charter Oak's commitment to local engagement and support.

The Ramsey McCluskey Family Foundation offers Single-Year Grants to support projects in arts and general education for preschool through high school. With an annual budget of about $300,000, grants can reach up to $10,000. Priority is given to hands-on arts education projects, with 75% of the budget allocated to this area. Organizations must wait one year after receiving three consecutive grants before reapplying. Eligibility is limited to projects within a 50-mile radius of MetroWest Boston.

The Ramsey McCluskey Family Foundation offers Trilogy Grants to organizations that have received at least three Single-Year grants. Each grant totals $25,000 over three years, with $10,000 in the first year and $7,500 in the following years. Limited to a 50-mile radius from MetroWest Boston, the Foundation prioritizes measurable projects in arts and general education. Only four Trilogy Grants are awarded annually, encouraging sustained educational engagement through hands-on experiences.

The Ramsey McCluskey Family Foundation offers grants to support arts and general education projects within a 50-mile radius of MetroWest Boston. Annually, they distribute approximately $300,000, funding 15-20 Single Year Grants up to $10,000, 3-4 Scholarship Fund Grants of $2,500, and Trilogy Grants totaling $35,000 over three years. Organizations seeking funds are encouraged to submit a Letter of Inquiry to initiate the application process.

The Mystic Rotary Community Grant supports local 501(c)3 organizations through biannual funding cycles, aimed at providing community grants and scholarships. These initiatives are funded by the Rotary Club of Mystic's fundraising efforts, which return benefits to those in need globally. Eligible organizations can apply during the spring and fall cycles, making a significant impact in their communities.

The Brinker International Charitable Giving Program focuses on giving back to communities through support for kids, hunger, and education. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501c(3) non-profits and submit requests at least six weeks prior to events. The program does not support individuals, political or religious organizations, or explicit discrimination policies. Funding is provided through monetary donations or in-kind contributions like dining certificates.

The Enbridge Safe Community First Responder Program is designed to support emergency response organizations across Canada and the U.S. by providing grants for safety equipment, training, and educational programs. Launched in 2002, it has invested over $22 million in enhancing community safety. Eligible organizations include fire departments and medical services located near Enbridge operations. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $10,000, helping improve the capabilities of first responders in rural and underserved areas.