Competitive Grants

An annual process to review and support organizations and programs that serve the Branford Community. This is the primary funding opportunity through which most of BCF's grant-making occurs.

Geographic Scope: Branford, Connecticut

Eligible Applicants:

• 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organizations
• 170(c)(1) governmental agencies
• Previous grantees welcome (continued funding not guaranteed)
• All final reports from previous grants must be provided before submitting a new application

Focus Areas (2026):

• Basic Needs
• Mental Health
• Community Joy
• Youth Development
• Arts & Culture
• Community Improvement & Vitality
• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
• Education & Youth
• Environment & Sustainability
• Health and Human Services
• Housing Stability
• Seniors & Special Needs

Special Consideration: Organizations and groups that have been underserved or not previously supported by BCF

What BCF Will NOT Fund:

• Debt reduction
• Endowments
• Individuals
• Lobbying
• Political organizations and campaigns
• Funding to replace government funding sources

Grant Criteria:
Applications should address a documented need within the focus area and demonstrate impact. Strategies should include:

• Addressing a documented need or concern
• Recognizing and building on community/organization strengths and assets
• Building capacity of community organizations/individuals
• Supporting cooperative approaches through collaborations
• Attracting other resources (matching gifts)
• Building infrastructure within the organization

Award Statistics (2025):

• 29 grants awarded
• Total: $90,550
• Average: $3,122
• Range: $1,500 - $20,000

Grantee Obligations:

• BCF must be recognized in all related press releases and publicity
• Final report due no later than February 1 (prior to new cycle deadline)

Application Process

Timeline:

• Applications available: End of January
• Submission deadline: Mid-March (2026: March 13)
• Award announcement: May 15 or later

Steps to Apply:

1. Review grant-making policies and procedures before submitting
2. Submit application through the online grant portal (Online Grant Center)
3. Applications reviewed by Community Investment Committee (CIC)
4. CIC recommends funding to Board of Directors
5. Board of Directors makes final decision in May

Information Session:

• Grant workshop typically held mid-February (2026: February 12 at 10am)
• Communicates focus areas and answers questions

Submission Format:

• Online application portal required

Required Materials:

• Final reports from any previous BCF grants
• Documentation of need within focus area
• Demonstration of community impact

Application Portal: Online Grant Center at branfordcommunityfoundation.org/grants/