OUR PROGRAMS

the mini-grant program

 

background

The Mini-Grant Program was established to provide teachers, coaches, and members of the community who are aligned with our mission with the much-needed funds to pursue projects that may be beyond their current budget.

These grants range in amount and purpose - from funding for student-athlete transportation to financial support for extracurricular groups such as knitting clubs, international travel clubs and LGBTQ+ clubs. The money has been used by recipients to maximize their impact and, in accordance with CFM’s mission, to provide students with more opportunities, regardless of socioeconomic barriers.

The Board selects recipients based on a rigorous application process. Applications are considered with reference to the CFM Foundation's mission - to create opportunities for under-resourced kids, by supporting various academic and athletic programs.

The CFM Foundation awards up to $500 to selected recipients and has supported over 450 grants since inception.

who should apply?

SUPPORTED Areas of interest:

  • Education: Initiatives at the primary, secondary, and post-secondary levels that raise the aspirations of students in the community and/or support early literacy, as well as initiatives that support the education process.

  • Youth Programs: Programs that assist in improving the quality of life for children in the community or programs that foster education, learning, and leadership, as well as build early literacy skills

  • Cultural Programs: Programs that assist in enriching the quality of life for residents of the community by cultivating an appreciation of the arts, music, museums, libraries, and other cultural resources.

 

mini-grant criteria

The CFM Foundation will consider supporting projects and initiatives that meet one or more of the following criteria:

  • are directly related to the Foundation's mission and vision, and areas of interest, as stated above

  • include a strategy for leveraging other resources and support from the region

  • encourage coordination and collaboration with other efforts

 

eligibility requirements

  • Applicants must be located in or provide service to a community in CT or MA

  • In some cases, site visits will be scheduled before funding decisions are made. 


Ineligible Organizations & Requests:
The CFM Foundation does NOT support the following types of organizations and/or requests, even if an applicant meets all other eligibility and grant criteria as listed above:

  • Fraternal, labor, and political organizations or lobbying groups

  • Individuals

  • Staff costs/salaries/benefits or internship stipends

  • Religious organizations