Best New London County Grants for Nonprofits in Connecticut

The SWE Hartford Scholarship aims to empower women in engineering by providing a $1,000 tuition award for high school senior female students pursuing a Baccalaureate in Engineering or Computer Science. This initiative not only promotes educational opportunities but also encourages women to excel in traditionally male-dominated fields, showcasing the importance of diversity in engineering. By informing young women and their families about career prospects, the scholarship fosters a supportive community for future leaders.

Webster Bank Corporate Giving focuses on supporting underserved communities through essential programs in workforce development, community development, financial empowerment, and basic human services. The bank prioritizes registered nonprofit organizations that align with its strategic goals, encouraging initiatives that promote economic inclusion and address racial equity. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits operating within Webster's footprint, demonstrating a history of success and a commitment to community enhancement.

The Bodenwein Public Benevolent Foundation Grant aims to enhance educational, cultural, human services, and health care initiatives for underserved populations in Greater New London County, Connecticut. Established in 1938, the foundation supports programs primarily benefiting residents of specific towns in the area. However, it does not fund endowment campaigns or start-up nonprofits, though it is open to discussing potential opportunities with applicants.

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.

Charter Oak Federal Credit Union's Community Giving Grants Program supports non-profit organizations focused on economic development and social well-being in New London and Windham counties. Grants prioritize initiatives in education, health, human services, housing, community development, and the arts. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities serving these communities. The program reviews applications quarterly, with funding awarded to projects that demonstrate a significant community impact and address critical local needs.

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.

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 Chelsea Groton Foundation, established in 1998, has awarded over $6.79 million in grants to nonprofits in Connecticut and Rhode Island. Committed to community growth, equity, and inclusion, the Foundation will implement updated grant procedures starting January 2025. Organizations must ensure prior grants are fully expended before applying for new funding, with a maximum grant request set at $10,000 to support more community partners effectively.

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.

CVS Health Foundation: Hometown Fund

The CVS Health Foundation’s Hometown Fund was created to support local nonprofits across Hartford, Connecticut, and the state of Rhode Island – places where our CVS Health teams live, work and care deeply about community health. Through this fund, we support organizations that are making a real difference by expanding access to health care and addressing the everyday factors that shape people’s well‑being, like nutritious food and stable housing.

In 2025, the Hometown Fund awarded $2 million in general operating support grants – $1 million to 20 organizations in Greater Hartford and another $1 million to 20 organizations across Rhode Island. These investments continued our commitment to improving local health and strengthening community support systems, bringing the amount of Hometown Fund grants awarded since 2022 to $8 million. 

The PLTW Gateway program, in collaboration with Burns & McDonnell, aims to enhance STEM education by expanding access to Project Lead The Way initiatives in eligible communities. By providing grants for program expansion, the initiative encourages schools to implement new PLTW units and train teachers, empowering students with essential skills for future careers. This partnership seeks to inspire a new generation of learners through hands-on, real-world challenges, thereby fostering greater participation in STEM fields across various regions.

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.

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.

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 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 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 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 Dime Bank Foundation Grant supports organizations that enhance community well-being, focusing on affordable housing, basic human services, and educational programs. Established in 1998, the foundation has three grant cycles annually, requiring a post-grant report within a year of funding. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and serve specified regions in Connecticut and Rhode Island. The foundation prioritizes projects that foster self-sufficiency and collaborative efforts for underserved populations.

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 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 Environmental Champions Awards, established by The Rockfall Foundation, honor individuals and organizations for their significant contributions to environmental preservation, conservation, restoration, and education in the Lower Connecticut River Valley. Recognizing efforts since 1935, the awards include the Tom ODell Distinguished Service Award and Certificates of Appreciation. Eligible projects must demonstrate a positive impact on local ecosystems and can receive funding ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 to support innovative environmental initiatives.

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 Liberty Bank Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations that strengthen families and communities. Established in 1997, the foundation reflects Liberty Bank's commitment to improving the quality of life in the areas it serves. This grant program aims to empower local nonprofits through financial assistance, enabling them to deliver essential services and foster community development. Interested organizations can find further details on the foundation's sponsorship page.

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.

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 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.

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on improving economic mobility and social progress through partnerships with nonprofits. It prioritizes basic needs, income creation, stable housing, and community empowerment. By supporting vulnerable populations, the foundation aims to enable individuals to achieve their goals and contribute positively to their communities. The foundation emphasizes sustainable progress, ensuring that all community members have access to essential resources and opportunities for growth.