Best New London County Grants for Nonprofits in Connecticut

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 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.

About Chelsea Groton FoundationChelsea Groton Foundation, Inc. was established in 1998 as a Section 501(c)(3) organization. Initially endowed with a $2 million dollar donation from Chelsea Groton Bank, the Foundation has awarded over $8.1 million in grants to non-profit organizations in the Bank’s Connecticut and Rhode Island market areas.

The Foundation’s mission is to support the ongoing commitment in partnership to the long-term growth of our community. Along with Chelsea Groton Bank, the Foundation is committed to belonging, equity, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring an ongoing sense of belonging for all, today and in the future.Grants for TeachersArea teachers are encouraged to apply for grants to help support financial education programming in their classroom. Prior to being awarded the grant, applicants will be:

• Trained to teach the FDIC Money Smart Program to their class.
• Administered pre- and post-program testing.
• Teach six age-appropriate Money Smart Program lessons to their class, provided by the Bank’s Community Education Officer.
• Set up and attend an educational field trip with their class at one of our Chelsea Groton Bank branches.
  • Following the completion of these requirements, teachers will be awarded the grants for use in their classroom.

The PositiveNRG Grant Program, led by NRG Energy, focuses on investing in communities through choice and education, community engagement, resilience, sustainability, and well-being. The program is open to non-profit organizations and governmental entities that can demonstrate a meaningful impact. Preference is given to initiatives that foster community involvement and inclusiveness. However, sponsorships for religious or political activities are generally not supported. This program aims to empower communities through innovative energy solutions.

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.

BAE Systems offers community investment grants aimed at enhancing the well-being of military families and supporting future workforce development in STEM fields. As a U.S. subsidiary of a global defense and aerospace leader, they require applicants to be recognized 501(c) organizations. The initiative underscores a commitment to charitable partnerships that uplift local communities and contribute positively to society.

The Nonprofit Resource Training Grant offers up to $1,000 for tax-exempt organizations to send employees to essential training and conferences. This initiative supports community-based groups that serve low- to moderate-income populations and align with The Ready Commitment. By enhancing employee skills, the grant aims to strengthen nonprofits and their impact in the community, ensuring they provide valuable services effectively.

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 R.S. Gernon Trust Grant, established in 1975, supports educational, health care, and human services for underserved populations in Norwich, Connecticut. Grants are typically awarded for one year, with potential for multi-year support. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations. Notably, capital project requests are generally not considered, and grants cannot be awarded for more than three consecutive years. This funding opportunity aims to enhance community services and resources.

Spectrum Digital Education Grants support nonprofit organizations in educating communities about broadband benefits and usage. These grants aim to bridge the digital divide, particularly for seniors and those with disabilities or ethnically diverse backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate community partnership, address specific needs, and provide measurable impact metrics. With a focus on financial feasibility and meaningful outcomes, this initiative ensures that underrepresented urban and rural communities gain access to essential digital resources, fostering long-term improvement in their lives.

The Santander Charitable Sponsorship Program focuses on supporting low- to moderate-income communities primarily in the Northeast and Florida. With a commitment of $100 million in charitable giving, the program addresses key community development needs, including affordable housing, job creation, financial education, and disaster relief. Eligible organizations must have IRS 501(c)(3) status or be public agencies, demonstrating capacity to meet community needs. Unsolicited applications are not accepted.

Medtronic is a global leader in medical technology, dedicated to enhancing healthcare access and supporting the communities it serves. Through its Grants and Donations program, Medtronic provides financial assistance for medical education, independent conferences, and charitable events, emphasizing collaboration with healthcare stakeholders. The program aims to alleviate pain, restore health, and extend life, positively impacting millions of patients worldwide. For more information, visit Medtronic's FAQs on grants and donations.

The Urban Green and Community Gardens Grant Program supports distressed municipalities and environmental justice communities in enhancing urban green spaces. It provides funding for projects such as community gardens and green infrastructure, aiming to improve public enjoyment and environmental education. Eligible applicants must be municipalities or registered non-profits, with a focus on projects that demonstrate public accessibility. This match-share reimbursement program requires applicants to secure 50% of the total project cost.

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.

The Jewett City Savings Bank Foundation Grant supports community and charitable initiatives across several sectors, including education and health. Established in 2004, it has distributed over $1.3 million in grants, with a maximum award of $5,000. The foundation prioritizes projects that enhance the well-being of local populations, particularly those serving low- to moderate-income households. Applications are welcomed from 501(c)(3) organizations and other qualifying entities, fostering a strong commitment to community development.

The Frank Loomis Palmer Fund Grant supports educational, cultural, human services, and health care initiatives for underserved populations in New London, Connecticut. Established in 1936, this grant typically offers one-year funding, with occasional multi-year support. Eligible applicants must serve the local community, but funding is restricted to no more than three consecutive years. The Palmer Fund prioritizes programs in arts, culture, education, health, and human services.

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 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 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 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 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 Summer Programs Grants aim to enhance summer programming for Hartford children and individuals with disabilities in the region. This competitive grant encourages 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations to provide safe, enriching environments while supporting working families. The program prioritizes cultural competency and requires tracking of participant involvement, emphasizing the importance of career exposure through counselor-in-training opportunities. Grants will be awarded to those demonstrating a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The Regional Impact Grants for Norwich Youth aim to support youth development programs targeting economically and socially disadvantaged youth in Norwich. Funded by generous legacy gifts, these grants prioritize initiatives that enhance early childhood education, mentoring, mental health access, and educational opportunities. With grants of up to $15,000 available, eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and educational institutions committed to fostering youth empowerment and social change.

The Jean Griswold Foundation

The Jean Griswold Foundation (JGF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Caregivers through educational opportunities and scholarships. 

Our Mission

The mission of the Jean Griswold Foundation is to support Caregivers by providing educational scholarships* to enable them to further their training, enhance their careers, and better assist the clients they serve.

By offering educational scholarships*, our Foundation will not only make a positive impact on the Caregivers themselves, but also the clients they assist and the home healthcare agencies where they are employed, as well as help advance the overarching home-care industry.

Scholarships will be paid directly to the federally accredited educational institutions of the winning Scholars’ choosing.

Empowering Caregivers Through Education

The Jean Griswold Foundation Scholarship Program awards scholarships to deserving Caregivers who wish to further their education in a care-related field. Applicants do not have to be associated with Griswold in any way, and the funds will be paid directly to the institution where the caregiver will be receiving education.  

Our Winter 2026 Scholarship Application period is now open! Applications will be accepted until 11:59pm ET August 31, 2026. Join our email list to get the first notice of all Scholarship happenings.  

Where would we be without Caregivers? 

Their selflessness is astounding, yet they are often overlooked and underappreciated. 

The Jean Griswold Foundation is dedicated to supporting Caregivers, the backbone of the care industry. We provide educational scholarships so Care Professionals can further their training, enhance their skills, elevate their careers, and better assist the people they serve.

The Women & Girls Fund Grants, administered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, aim to empower women and girls across Eastern Connecticut through various initiatives. With a focus on equity and social justice, the fund provides support for mentorship, healthy relationships, economic security, and access to health services. It serves regions including Northeast, Norwich, Southeast, and Windham, addressing critical needs while fostering leadership and advocacy for women and girls.

Liberty Bank is committed to enhancing community engagement through its Corporate and Branch Sponsorships, supporting a variety of non-profit organizations and events. With a focus on cultural, educational, and health services, Liberty Bank contributes to initiatives within Connecticut and Greater Springfield, Massachusetts. Sponsorship opportunities include fundraisers, concerts, and sporting events, fostering long-lasting community ties. By investing in local programs, Liberty Bank aims to make a meaningful impact and support the causes that matter most to its communities.

The Nunes Family Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, provides $500 to students from Southeastern Connecticut or Westerly, RI attending Mitchell College. Since 1983, the foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships to support local students in pursuing higher education and achieving successful careers. Scholarship funds are disbursed to colleges by August 1, ensuring timely support for students' educational needs.