Community Impact Mini-Grant

The City of Norwalk Community Impact Mini-Grant Program supports local nonprofit organizations serving Norwalk, Connecticut residents. Established through the City's Community Services Department, the program provides small grants to assist nonprofits with operating budgets under $1 million. The goal is to strengthen the local nonprofit sector and expand services that improve health, education, and community safety. Applications are accepted during specified open-enrollment periods, and incomplete or inaccurate applications may be disqualified. Organizations can receive only one mini-grant per 12-month period, and grants range from $5,000 to $10,000, with a total of $100,000 available for distribution during this cycle. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(19) tax-exempt organizations or government agencies authorized to provide services in Connecticut. Organizations operating under a fiscal sponsor are also eligible. Religious organizations can apply, but projects must be non-sectarian in nature. Only projects serving Norwalk residents are eligible for funding. Organizations funded in the previous grant cycle are ineligible to apply again, but previous applicants who did not receive funding may reapply. The program’s focus areas are: Health: Medical or mental health services or education addressing gaps in care Education: Academic support and enrichment programs for students of all ages and parents Safety Net Services: Prevention or diversion programs addressing community needs Eligible funding activities include direct service-related costs, project materials, program expansions, and staff professional development or certification. Funds may not be used for fringe benefits or to re-grant to other organizations. Applications will be carefully evaluated on merit, alignment with program priorities, and feasibility. The City reserves the right to reject, defer, or deny applications for various reasons, including insufficient information or past non-compliance with city funding requirements. Applications must be submitted through the online portal, and questions can be directed to ImpactGrant@norwalkct.gov. Applicants must also attend an informational webinar and submit accompanying documents like budgets and certificates of insurance, as outlined in the RFP and application materials.