Search Through Private Grants for Nonprofits in Connecticut in the U.S.

The Civic Engagement Mini-Grants program, funded by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive civic participation. Grants of up to $1,000 are available for 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and governmental agencies serving 42 communities in Eastern Connecticut. This initiative emphasizes the importance of an informed and engaged citizenry, particularly from communities of color and youth, to strengthen democratic values and community well-being.

The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants program in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island provides vital funding to help rural communities prepare for or recover from emergencies threatening their access to safe drinking water. Eligible applicants may receive grants for water transmission and source projects, addressing critical needs following disasters like droughts, floods, or contamination. This initiative aims to restore water supply systems and support rural development, ensuring reliable water access for residents.

The Labcorp Charitable Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) entity, aims to enhance healthcare access and education for all. With grant opportunities focusing on food programs, healthcare services for underserved populations, and STEM initiatives, it seeks to support community health and well-being. Organizations eligible for funding must be U.S.-based and hold tax-exempt status. Requests are reviewed biannually, in March and September, to foster impactful community projects.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Connecticut offers essential funding for the development of clean drinking water and sanitary waste management systems in rural areas. Eligible applicants include state and local governments, nonprofits, and tribes who cannot access commercial credit. This program supports various projects, including water sourcing, sewage treatment, and stormwater management, ensuring safe and sustainable environmental practices for communities in need.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

The Lily Palmer Fry Memorial Grant, managed by Bank of America, focuses on supporting summer camp opportunities for underserved children. Established in 1954, this grant prioritizes traditional camp programs that allow urban children to experience the natural environment, promoting their personal growth and development. By targeting specific community needs, the grant aims to provide enriching outdoor experiences that foster a sense of belonging and adventure for children in urban settings.

The Resilient and Connected Appalachians Grant Program, offered by The Nature Conservancy, provides up to $100,000 for projects that acquire land and easements throughout the Appalachian region. This program emphasizes equitable conservation, aiming to support historically marginalized communities and enhance access to nature while addressing climate change impacts. Projects must demonstrate community engagement and align with the program's goals to protect vital habitats and foster resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

The CSWEP Environmental Professionals Grant Program, organized by the Connecticut Society for Women Environmental Professionals, aims to empower women in environmental fields. It funds local projects in Connecticut that contribute positively to the environment. The program prioritizes applications that demonstrate significant environmental benefits, ranging from clean-up initiatives to educational programs. Through this grant, SWEP-CT fosters leadership and collaboration among women professionals, enhancing their skills and promoting public service in environmental endeavors.

The Rural Business Development Grants in Connecticut provide essential funding opportunities for small and emerging businesses in rural areas. With two types of grants available—Opportunity and Enterprise—these funds can be utilized for various projects, including technical assistance, feasibility studies, and community economic development. Eligible applicants include rural public entities, such as towns and nonprofit corporations. The program aims to enhance the economic landscape while prioritizing smaller requests for funding.

The Cowles Charitable Trust Grant supports initiatives aligned with the philanthropic legacy of Gardner Cowles, Jr. Focused on education, social justice, health, and the arts, it favors organizations recognized as 501(c)(3) by the IRS. The Trust encourages applications for general operating support and seeks partnerships rather than being the sole funder. Notably, it considers applications from established partners and supports efforts in Downstate New York and South Florida, with a preference for diverse funding sources.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

The Donald N. Tweedy Trust Grant supports community organizations in Danbury, Connecticut, that focus on music. This grant aims to assist local entities where Danbury residents actively participate in musical performances. Nonprofit organizations meeting IRS 501(c)(3) criteria are eligible to apply, while individuals are not permitted to submit applications. For further details about the grant, please visit the foundation finder.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.

The Charles Parker Trust for Public Music Fund Grant aims to provide affordable music to the public in New Britain, Connecticut. Managed by Bank of America, this fund supports nonprofit organizations focused on arts, culture, and humanities. Eligible applicants must conduct musical performances within New Britain and may receive grants for one year. However, requests for capital projects are not considered, and grants cannot be awarded for more than three consecutive years.

The Thomas J. Atkins Memorial Trust Fund, established in 1946, aims to enhance educational, human services, and healthcare programs for underserved populations in Middlesex County, Connecticut. With a focus on alleviating human distress, it favors nonprofits that serve the local community, particularly in Middletown and Middlesex County. Managed by Bank of America, the fund provides grants for one year, supporting initiatives that address vital community needs.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

Cox Charities Northeast offers community grants ranging from $5,000 to $12,000 annually to support nonprofit organizations focused on STEAM education. Since 2001, Cox has invested nearly $8 million in youth programming across Connecticut, Ohio, and Rhode Island. The grants prioritize innovative projects in science, technology, engineering, arts, math, and sustainability initiatives, encouraging applications from eligible 501(c)(3) organizations in the Cox East serviceable footprint.

The New Alliance Foundation's Emerging Grant Program supports early-stage nonprofit organizations dedicated to addressing local needs in Connecticut. By providing one-year grants, the program aims to help these organizations build capacity, test innovative ideas, and foster community impact. Priority is given to initiatives that align with the Foundation's mission of advancing literacy and dismantling systemic inequities. This program empowers nonprofits to grow and create lasting change in their communities.

The Connecticut Arts Endowment Fund Grant supports nonprofit arts organizations in Connecticut by providing unrestricted funding to enhance their operations. Organizations eligible for funding must demonstrate significant donor contributions and maintain compliance with state regulations. The grant incentivizes fundraising efforts by matching contributions based on a formula, ensuring that arts initiatives receive the necessary financial backing to thrive. This program aims to cultivate long-term sustainability within Connecticut's arts sector.

The Connecticut Recreational Trails Program Grants, established by the DEEP in 2015, provides funding for trail projects to support both motorized and non-motorized trails. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, municipalities, and tribal governments. Grants can cover up to 80% of project costs, with a maximum request of 1 million dollars. Key focus areas include trail construction, maintenance, accessibility for disabled individuals, and educational programs promoting safety and environmental protection.