CFGNH Small Grants Program

The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven offers the Small Grants Program to support small nonprofit organizations working within the Greater New Haven region. The Foundation serves a twenty-town area, aiming to strengthen nonprofit capacity, enhance community services, and promote long-term sustainability for local organizations. With a strong focus on advancing opportunity and equity, the Foundation seeks to ensure small nonprofits have the resources they need to thrive.

The Small Grants Program offers grants of up to $15,000. Organizations with a current operating budget up to $40,000 can apply for grants up to $5,000, while those with a budget of $40,000 or more can apply for grants up to $15,000. This funding can be used for project support, capacity building efforts such as strategic planning or board development, and general operating support to help nonprofits fulfill their mission.

Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) or equivalent statutes, or have a fiscal sponsor with appropriate tax status. They must also serve communities within the Foundation’s twenty-town region and have an operating budget of $2 million or less. Regional or statewide organizations are not eligible to apply for general operating support. Organizations with a current responsive grant that extends beyond December 31, 2025, are also ineligible. Additionally, applicants must be current with any prior grant reporting requirements and can receive only one small grant within any two-calendar-year period. Organizations cannot apply for both a Small Grant and a Responsive Grant in the same cycle.

The application process occurs in two rounds. The first round opens on January 6 and closes at 5:00 p.m. on March 17. The second round opens on August 1 and will accept applications on a rolling basis until funds are depleted. Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis, and the review process typically takes 8 to 10 weeks. While grants could reach up to $15,000, most awards fall between $3,000 and $7,500, depending on available resources and the specifics of each request.

To apply, organizations must email Logan Roddy, the Grants Manager, with the applicant's name, organization name, organizational budget size, and funding request. Logan Roddy can be reached at 203-777-7084. Applications will be considered until all funding has been allocated. The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven is located at 70 Audubon Street, New Haven, CT 06510.