The Connecticut Port Authority (CPA) has approved $44,700.70 in grant funding to support eight projects through its Maritime Education Networking and Training Opportunity for Residents Sponsorship Program (MENTOR-Futures) and Community Grant Program.
The awards reflect the Authority’s commitment to supporting maritime education, promoting recreational access to Connecticut’s waterways, celebrating the state’s maritime heritage, and strengthening connections between communities and their waterfronts.
MENTOR-Futures Sponsorship Program
The MENTOR-Futures program approved $11,998.70 in funding for three recipients, supporting maritime education, workforce-related skills development, and boating safety awareness.
Light The Way, Inc. — $4,998.70
Funding will support the printing and distribution of 386 age-appropriate water and boating safety books for Connecticut students in Pre-K through Grade 5, introducing young learners to important safety practices on and around the water.
New London Community Boatworks, Inc. — $2,000
Funding will provide materials, tools, equipment, and transportation for the organization’s 2026–27 high school boatbuilding program at New London Multi-Magnet High School. The program offers students opportunities to develop hands on skills through boatbuilding activities.
Lisbon Central School — $5,000
Funding will cover Project Oceanology program fees for 55 seventh grade students, providing opportunities to engage in marine science education and learn more about Connecticut’s coastal and marine environments.
Community Grant Program
The Community Grant Program approved $32,702 in funding for five projects.These investments will enhance waterfront amenities, improve access to recreational resources, and help communities share their maritime stories.
City of West Haven — $3,300
Funding will support the design, construction, and installation of three kayak racks, each accommodating four kayaks, improving infrastructure for waterfront recreation.
City of New London — $10,000
Funding will support the Welcome to New London project, including replacement banner brackets and mounting hardware, replacement historic markers highlighting the city’s maritime history, and a virtual waterfront photo booth.
Town of Cromwell — $9,402
Funding will support interpretive signage at Cromwell Landing and Frisbee Park along the Connecticut River, helping visitors learn more about these waterfront locations.
Black Rock Neighborhood Revitalization Zone, Inc. — $10,000
Funding will support the Black Rock Maritime Signage and Wayfinding project, including site assessment, signage design, content development, fabrication, and installation. These improvements will help residents and visitors navigate and appreciate the area’s maritime environment.