Connecticut Diversity Equity and Inclusion Grants

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations in the Berkshire Taconic region to support capacity-building projects that enhance governance, diversity, and overall effectiveness in serving their communities.

The Women's Business Development Council (WBDC) offers the Ignite Grant, a program designed to foster the growth and profitability of women-owned small businesses in Connecticut. This initiative directly aligns with the WBDC's mission to support women entrepreneurs by providing crucial financial resources. The grants, ranging from $2,500 to $10,000, are specifically for clearly defined projects that demonstrate a measurable impact on business expansion. The target beneficiaries of the Ignite Grant are women-owned businesses that are at least 51% woman-owned, headquartered in Connecticut, registered in the state, and owned by a Connecticut resident who is at least 18 years old. These businesses must have been operating for at least two years with a record of sales, possess annual sales/revenue between $25,000 and $2,000,000 in the last twelve months, and be in good standing with the CT Department of Revenue Services. They must also have an established business checking account and utilize a formal, digital bookkeeping/financial system. The program explicitly aims to support for-profit businesses. The WBDC prioritizes projects that will have a demonstrable impact on business growth and profitability, encouraging recipients to invest at least $2,500 into their business in the last 12 months, unless located in a distressed municipality. Certain businesses are ineligible, including childcare businesses (though other WBDC programs may apply to them), non-profit organizations, current WBDC vendors, and businesses that have previously received an Ignite, Equity Match, or WBDC Municipal Grant. Additionally, businesses in industries such as medical marijuana, liquor sales, adult entertainment, vape/tobacco, gambling, gun sales, and various financial services or "going-out-of-business" sales are excluded. The expected outcomes of the Ignite Grant are the measurable growth and increased profitability of recipient businesses. By providing capital for specific projects, the WBDC aims to empower women entrepreneurs to expand their operations, create jobs, and contribute to the economic vitality of Connecticut. The program's theory of change posits that by strategically investing in well-defined projects within eligible women-owned businesses, the WBDC can directly facilitate sustainable business development and economic empowerment for women in the state.

This funding opportunity supports youth development programs in New Haven, Connecticut, specifically targeting underrepresented youth aged 13 to 18 through established organizations and community-led initiatives.

This funding opportunity supports community initiatives in southeastern Connecticut that empower youth and address basic needs, focusing on collaboration and measurable outcomes to enhance well-being in lower-income areas.

This grant provides funding to early-career researchers in Connecticut, New Jersey, or Rhode Island to conduct patient-oriented clinical research that addresses human diseases and health disparities under the mentorship of experienced scientists.

This program provides funding and training to community organizations in historically underserved areas of New England and New York City to support local composting initiatives that promote environmental sustainability and community resilience.

This funding opportunity supports initiatives that improve health and environmental conditions for historically underserved communities in Greater Waterbury and the Litchfield Hills, focusing on equitable access to housing, food, and healthcare.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations in Farmington, Connecticut, to support community-driven projects that promote civic engagement and inclusivity for local residents.

This funding initiative provides financial support to organizations that help underserved job seekers in Greater New Haven overcome barriers to employment and achieve sustainable careers.

This opportunity invites Manchester residents aged 14 and older to join an advisory committee that influences grantmaking decisions to support community initiatives and enhance local well-being.

This grant provides funding to local organizations in Southbury, Connecticut, to implement collaborative projects that improve community well-being in areas such as social services, health, youth development, arts, and environmental conservation.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations in the Metro Hartford area that are working to create positive change and provide direct services to underserved individuals and families.

This funding opportunity supports grassroots community groups in New England that focus on environmental initiatives and social justice, providing financial assistance for projects led by volunteers or small teams.

This program provides financial support to Connecticut municipalities, regional councils, and agricultural non-profits for projects that enhance agricultural viability, focusing on education, diversity, urban agriculture, and food supply improvements.

This grant provides funding for innovative environmental projects that promote preservation, conservation, restoration, and education in the Lower Connecticut River Valley, targeting eligible nonprofits, municipalities, and schools in specific towns.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations and resident groups in Wethersfield, Connecticut, for community projects that address local needs and promote inclusivity in areas such as youth mental health, support services, and diversity initiatives.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations and community groups in Greater Hartford that aim to boost civic engagement and address social justice issues within marginalized communities.

This funding opportunity supports community-based nonprofit organizations in Hartford, Connecticut, and St. Louis, Missouri, to improve healthcare access and address mental health and substance use challenges in underserved populations.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations that provide programs to improve the mental health of underserved youth aged 5-18, focusing on conflict resolution, family-school partnerships, and trauma-focused services in specific states.

This funding opportunity supports programs that empower economically and socially disadvantaged youth in Norwich through education, mentoring, health services, and community engagement initiatives.