Best New London County Grants for Nonprofits in Connecticut

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 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 PLTW Launch program, in collaboration with Burns and McDonnell, aims to enhance STEM education by expanding access to innovative educational modules in eligible schools. This initiative supports public and charter schools in targeted counties, focusing on increasing student engagement in STEM fields. Through grant funding, participating schools can introduce new PLTW Launch modules and provide essential training for teachers, fostering a richer learning environment to prepare students for future careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

The Rockfall Foundation is accepting applications for its 2026 Annual Environmental Grants Program, aimed at non-profit organizations, municipalities, and schools. This program supports projects focused on environmental conservation, restoration, and education in the Lower Connecticut River Valley. Eligible expenses include materials, transportation, and program fees. Projects must demonstrate a clear benefit to the environment and align with the foundation's priorities, including environmental justice and youth engagement.

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 Environmental/Animal Welfare Grants support initiatives that enhance environmental education and animal welfare in New London County. With grants ranging from $5,000 to $50,000, the program prioritizes projects that promote environmental justice, engage youth, and protect significant habitats. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and governmental agencies serving local communities. The foundation encourages collaborative, evidence-based approaches that address systemic inequities and foster positive, long-term change.

The Regional Impact Grants aim to empower youth and promote basic needs within communities in Southeast Connecticut. Grants support quality education, mentoring, and health programs for youth, as well as initiatives that enhance economic security, food access, and healthcare. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and governmental agencies focused on benefiting residents of East Lyme, Groton, and surrounding towns. The Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut provides these grants to foster collaboration and address systemic inequities.

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.

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 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 Dr. Thomas Soltz Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports graduating seniors from New London County who demonstrate academic achievement and financial need. Established in honor of Dr. Thomas Soltz, a respected general practitioner, this scholarship aims to empower local youth and foster educational opportunities. With a commitment to equity and social justice, the Foundation plays a vital role in addressing community needs and uplifting historically marginalized voices.

The Don Lumadue Scholarship is offered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut to support students from New London, Waterford, and East Lyme high schools pursuing education in the fine or performing arts. Established in 1983, the foundation aims to address community needs and promote equity through philanthropy. With over $100 million awarded in grants, it focuses on empowering youth and fostering inclusivity in the region.

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 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 Donald R. Henne Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports residents from East Lyme, Groton, Ledyard, Lyme, Montville, New London, North Stonington, Old Lyme, Salem, Stonington, and Waterford pursuing environmental studies at an accredited college or university. Established to empower students in their academic journey, this scholarship aligns with the Foundation's mission to promote equity and support community needs in the region.

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 TD Charitable Foundation has been dedicated to improving community quality of life since 2002, contributing over $254 million to non-profit organizations. They fund initiatives aligned with their corporate citizenship goals, focusing on Better Health, Connected Communities, Financial Security, and Vibrant Planet. Special consideration is given to programs that support inclusivity for diverse and historically underserved communities. Their commitment to enhancing lives through targeted grants reflects their core values and social responsibility.

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.

Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut

Ever since we were founded in 1983, our foundation has grown in knowledge, capability and influence as a direct result of the commitment of our generous donors, the depth of our relationships with nonprofit organizations and the steady oversight of caring, visionary leaders. We’ve built enduring relationships across the region and become an important part of the history – and future – of Eastern Connecticut.

We are proud to be of service to 42 communities in New London, Windham and Tolland Counties, with a combined population of approximately 450,000 residents and encompassing 1,402 square miles. We are the largest community foundation in the state – by geographic area served – covering nearly one-third of Connecticut.

250th Anniversary of the United States of America Grant

The Community Foundation announces an expansion of its civic engagement grants program to include a grants initiative focused on building democracy as we commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States of America.

What will be funded: Projects for local school-aged youth to increase their understanding of democracy.

Examples of potential grants

• Projects that highlight untold stories of marginalized people from the past or present such as women, indigenous people, people of color, or young people who have played a role in building, protecting or strengthening democracy.
• Using the arts, theater, music and dance, to connect past (including pre-revolution), present and future to make connections to building a strong civic society.

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 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.

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 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 National Estuary Program Watersheds Grant Program, administered by Restore America’s Estuaries and supported by the EPA, funds competitive projects addressing critical threats to estuaries. Key priorities include habitat restoration, enhancing coastal resilience against extreme weather, managing nutrient impacts, and mitigating stormwater runoff. Established in 1987, the program aims to improve ecological integrity and water quality in 28 estuaries nationwide, providing essential funding and guidance to local initiatives.