Updated Nov 1, 2026
Private foundations based in Bridgeport, Connecticut
6 grantmaking foundations headquartered in Bridgeport, Connecticut, holding $38M in assets. Ranked by grants paid in their latest 990-PF; 0 on this page say they accept applications. For foundations ranked by where their grants went, see local funders.
| Foundation | Grants paid | Median grant | Accepts applications | Assets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ernest and Joan Trefz Foundationsince 1997 | $2.5M109 grants · 2025 | $7,000 | Preselected only | $9.2M |
| The Aiello Charitable Foundation Incsince 2003 | $1.0M58 grants · 2024 | $2,750 | Preselected only | $22M |
| Charles & Mary James Home for Aged Women Incsince 1999 | $187K23 grants · 2025 | $8,000 | Preselected only | $2.8M |
| Ruth Krauss Foundation Incsince 2015 | $160K49 grants · 2025 | $3,000 | Preselected only | $1.8M |
| Craigielea Educational Fund Incsince 1950 | $66K1 grants · 2024 | $66K | Preselected only | $1.5M |
| Beckerer Foundation Incsince 1998 | $63K23 grants · 2025 | $3,000 | Preselected only | $1.1M |
Sources: IRS Business Master File (assets), ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer and IRS 990-PF e-file (grants paid, application policy). "Accepts applications" reflects the foundation's own Part XV checkbox.
Open grant programs in Connecticut
All 2| Deadline | Grant | Funder | Award ceiling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rollingno deadline | Connecticut Office of the Arts — Organizational GrantsStateConnecticut Office of the Arts | Connecticut Office of the Arts | Not listed |
| Rollingno deadline | Connecticut Humanities — Humanities GrantsStateConnecticut Humanities | Connecticut Humanities | Not listed |
Common questions
How many private foundations are based in Bridgeport, Connecticut?
Our directory lists 6 private grantmaking foundations in Bridgeport, Connecticut with at least $1 million in assets, holding a combined $38M. The data comes from the IRS Exempt Organizations Business Master File and Form 990-PF.
How do I get a grant from a private foundation?
Start with foundations that already fund organizations like yours nearby. Read the grantee list on each profile, check whether the foundation accepts applications (it says so on its 990-PF), and lead with a short letter of inquiry. Many family foundations fund only organizations they already know; an introduction through a shared grantee or board member works better than a cold proposal.
Can you help us approach foundations?
Yes. Our grant writers research foundation prospects, write letters of inquiry, and build a foundation fundraising plan. Request a free consultation.