When the Northeast Women in Public Finance announced that Ms. Jeanette W. Weldon had been selected as the 2025 public-sector recipient of the Freda Johnson Award, the CHEFA community felt a deep sense of pride. The recognition stands as a testament not only to Ms. Weldon’s achievements, but to the philosophy and values that have […]

The Connecticut Health and Educational Facilities Authority (CHEFA) announces the opening of the FY 2026 Nonprofit Grant Program.  The RFP for Letters of Interest (LOI) opens November 24, 2025, with LOIs due no later than December 31, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. The FY 2026 cycle is open to nonprofit organizations serving Connecticut communities and whose: […]

November 17, 2025 – The Connecticut Health and Educational Facilities Authority (CHEFA) is pleased to announce more than $1 million in grants awarded through its FY 2026 John M. Biancamano Client Grant Program. Funds were awarded to 17 nonprofit organizations to support programs and capital expenditures in the childcare, education, healthcare, and human services & […]

The twelth edition of our quarterly newsletter, CHEFA Insights!

The Connecticut Health & Educational Facilities Authority (CHEFA) Board of Directors has awarded $475,000 to Hartford Promise as part of the FY 2026 Enterprise Capital Grant Program.

In this episode of CHEFA Chats, we explore how a trusted elder care provider in New Haven pursued an ambitious expansion to better serve Connecticut’s seniors—and how CHEFA helped make it possible through a rare below-investment-grade bond issuance.

$1 million in funding is available to 501(c)(3) organizations and public educational institutions serving Connecticut communities.

At the Board of Directors Meeting held on June 18th, Krista Johnson, Senior Credit and Compliance Specialist, presented a review of CHEFA’s Senior Living Sector portfolio, which consists of 17 bond series totaling approximately $452.6 million.

At the Board of Directors Meeting held on June 18th, Staff presented a review of CHEFA’s Hospital Sector portfolio, which consists of 34 bond series totaling approximately $3.11 billion for 12 issuing entities.

For more than sixty years, the Connecticut Health and Educational Facilities Authority (CHEFA) has been at the center of building stronger communities across our state. From hospitals and universities to childcare centers, cultural institutions, and nonprofits, CHEFA provides the financing, grants, and expertise that organizations need to grow, innovate, and serve Connecticut residents. In Fiscal […]

From 2019 to 2024, the Connecticut Health and Educational Facilities Authority (CHEFA) played a pivotal role in advancing the state’s healthcare and education sectors while driving measurable economic growth. An independent analysis by IHS Markit shows that CHEFA’s tax-exempt financings not only supported vital community institutions but also delivered far-reaching economic benefits to Connecticut’s economy. […]

August 14, 2025 – The Connecticut Health and Educational Facilities Authority (CHEFA) is proud to announce $857,000 in grant awards through its FY 2026 Enterprise Capital Grant Program. The initiatives proposed by Hartford Promise and Boys & Girls Club of Stamford were selected not only because of the projected impacts within the communities they serve, […]

The eleventh edition of our quarterly newsletter, CHEFA Insights!

On May 15, 2025, CHEFA closed on a $500,000,000 transaction for Yale University. The bonds were issued in three series with five, seven and ten-year term modes. Proceeds from the bonds will be used to finance a portion of two critical initiatives of the University for its Upper Science Hill Development Project in the Science […]

In this episode of CHEFA Chats, host Dan Giungi sits down with CHEFA’s Managing Director Michael Morris and Controller JoAnne Mackewicz to reflect on six decades of impact, innovation, and evolution.

At the Board of Directors Meeting held on April 22nd, Krista Johnson, Senior Credit and Compliance Specialist, presented a review of CHEFA’s Higher Education Sector report, which included financial operating results for FY 2024 and market demand results for FY 2025.

CHEFA extends its heartfelt gratitude and best wishes to Michael Morris, who is retiring after an extraordinary 35-year career with the Authority.

June 18, 2025 – The Connecticut Health and Educational Facilities Authority (CHEFA) Board of Directors voted to award $1,045,325 in the FY 2025 Nonprofit Grant Program cycle. The grants were made for both program and capital expenditures in the education, healthcare, and cultural sectors. Half of the 18 grant awards made in this cycle went to […]

New Podcast Episode: CHEFA at 60 – A Legacy of Impact Featuring CHEFA Executive Director Jeanette W. Weldon

The tenth edition of our quarterly newsletter, CHEFA Insights!

At the Board of Directors Meeting held on February 19th, Ms. Johnson presented a review of CHEFA’s Independent School Sector report, which included financial operating results for FY 2024 and market demand results for FY 2025. This sector report reviewed the performance of 33 independent schools (22 boarding schools and 11 day school) that comprise […]

CHEFA and the Towers Foundation, Inc. recently closed a $200,000 loan through the Capital Investments Loan Program. The funds from the loan will be used to complete a significant ground floor renovation project at The Towers at Tower Lane of New Haven, CT. The Towers Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3), whose purpose is to provide […]

CHEFA is proud to announce the closing of a $7.5 million financing for Odd Fellows, operating as Fairview, Fellowship Manor, and Thames Edge at Fairview, marking a major milestone in the organization’s ongoing growth and service to Connecticut’s senior community. Located on a scenic 70-acre campus along the Thames River in Groton, Connecticut, Fairview is […]

By Jeanette W. WeldonExecutive Director, Connecticut Health and Educational Facilities Authority (CHEFA) This year, the Connecticut Health and Educational Facilities Authority (CHEFA) proudly celebrates 60 years of service, investment, and impact across our state. Since 1965, CHEFA has played a vital role in financing Connecticut’s nonprofit institutions, supporting healthcare, education, and community organizations that provide […]

The ninth edition of our quarterly newsletter, CHEFA Insights!

CHEFA proudly announces the recipients of its FY 2025 John M. Biancamano CHEFA Client Grant Program Awards.

The CHEFA, CHESLA, and CHEFA CDC 2025 legislative agenda receives approval from CHEFA’s Board of Directors.

At a recent workshop, CHEFA introduced a group of nonprofit leaders to its wide range of funding programs aimed at fostering growth and sustainability. Attendees learned about CHEFA’s mission to improve residents’ quality of life through financial support, including tax-exempt bonds, low-cost loans, and grants.

CHEFA hosted its first roadshow event on Thursday, November 14, 2024 on Quinnipiac University’s North Haven campus. The purpose of the event was to present an overview of current financing and grant programs offered by CHEFA to help fund the needs of Connecticut’s nonprofits. The event was well attended by nonprofits from across the state. […]

The eighth edition of our quarterly newsletter, CHEFA Insights!

CHEFA invites nonprofits to submit Letters of Interest for its next CHEFA Enterprise Capital Grant Cycle. This Program was established to bolster the capabilities and impact of nonprofit organizations in Connecticut by competitive grants that support strategic initiatives and strengthen organizational efficiency. Applicants can request unrestricted grant funding for up to $500,000 to empower them […]

At the heart of the New Canaan community, the YMCA has long been a vital resource, serving thousands of residents of all ages with programs that promote youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. In addition to its role in providing health and wellness services, the YMCA has also served as an emergency shelter during […]

At the Board of Directors Meeting held on May 15th, Managing Director Michael Morris presented a review of CHEFA’s Hospital Sector portfolio, which consists of 34 bond series totaling approximately $2.5 billion for 12 issuing entities.

In April, CHEFA Executive Director, Jeanette W. Weldon joined Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz, and Freedom Reads Founder and CEO, Dwayne Betts to announce the $400,000 enterprise capital grant, and highlight the ways it will support the organization’s growth and mission.

At the Board of Directors Meeting held on May 15th, Compliance Specialist Krista Johnson presented a review of CHEFA’s Senior Living Sector (aka Life Plan Communities) portfolio, which consists of 13 bond series totaling approximately $428.4 million.

On June 25, 2024, CHEFA hosted its client webinar: Harnessing AI: Transforming Finance and the Municipal Bond Market.

On July 10, 2024, Goodwin University closed its first bond issue with CHEFA in the amount of $47.145 million. This was CHEFA’s first bond issue with a Social Bonds designation.

The seventh edition of our quarterly newsletter, CHEFA Insights!

November 20, 2023-The Connecticut Health and Educational Facilities Authority (CHEFA) awarded close to $1 million in grants through its FY 2024 CHEFA John M. Biancamano Client Grant Program. The grants were primarily made in the education, healthcare, and childcare sectors. Grants were made for both program and capital expenditures. The sixteen awards provide grants to […]

June 1, 2023-The Connecticut Health and Educational Facilities Authority (CHEFA) awarded more than $1 million in grants through its FY 2023 CHEFA Nonprofit Grant Program. The grants were made in the education, healthcare, childcare, and cultural sectors. Grants were made for both program and capital expenditures. The eighteen awards provide grants to entities throughout Connecticut. […]

Monday, February 20, 2023 – Connecticut’s efforts to eliminate healthcare disparities received a major commitment of $1 million by the Connecticut Health and Educational Facilities Authority (CHEFA). With grant awards supporting initiatives aimed at providing increased access to mental health services for children, increased access to care for traditionally marginalized communities, and targeted long-term care […]

In the realm of Connecticut philanthropy, an innovative enterprise capital grant award from the Connecticut Health and Educational Facilities Authority (CHEFA) is helping the Hamden-based non-profit, Freedom Reads to build “freedom libraries,” in every correctional facility throughout the country, starting right here in Connecticut.

Earlier this month, CHEFA Executive Director, Jeanette W. Weldon, and CHEFA Managing Director, Michael Morris, joined Connecticut Children’s Medical Center President, James E. Shmerling, Mayor of Hartford, Arunan Arulampalam, and Commissioner of the Department of Public Health Manisha Juthani to commemorate the final beams being placed on top of the new 252,500 square foot tower. 

Earlier this month, experts from the philanthropic and nonprofit sectors came together for the annual CHEFA Nonprofit Forum. With the theme “Career Readiness: How Current Workforce Trends Affect Mission-Driven Nonprofits,” the event aimed to explore the challenges and opportunities in preparing individuals for the evolving job market.

CHEFA Nonprofit Forum 2024 on the future of work, career readiness, skill-based learning and meeting nonprofit staffing needs.

At the Board of Directors Meeting held on March 19th, Ms. Johnson, Compliance Specialist, presented a review of CHEFA’s Higher Education Sector report, which includes financial operating results for FY 2023 and market demand results for FY 2024. This sector report reviews the performance of the ten private institutions that comprise CHEFA’s higher education portfolio, consisting of 61 bond series with $4.92 billion outstanding.

Connecticut is facing a pressing challenge: a shortage of accessible and affordable childcare options. Learn more about how CHEFA is working to help address this issue as part of its 2024 legislative agenda and our proposed childcare tax credit program to provide support and incentivize investment in the areas of highest need throughout Connecticut.

As we step into the dawn of a new year, I am delighted to announce that CHEFA has settled in to our new offices at 1 Financial Plaza, symbolizing a fresh chapter in our story of growth and excellence. – Jeanette W. Weldon

The sixth edition of our quarterly newsletter, CHEFA Insights!

CHEFA provides a tax-exempt financing alternative (“EasyLoan Program”) for the purchase of capital equipment and associated improvements.

In a significant stride towards enhancing sickle cell disease care, CHEFA has awarded UCONN Health a $75,000 grant to support the New England Sickle Cell Institute (NESCI) in the delivery of patient-centered services.

If your organization is interested learning more about this Program and how it could address your financing needs, please contact Dan Kurowski, Manager of Program Development at dkurowski@CHEFA.com.

As we begin the new year, I am filled with gratitude and pride as I reflect on CHEFA’s meaningful accomplishments in 2023. Our commitment to enhancing the welfare and prosperity of the citizens of the State of Connecticut by providing financial assistance to the state’s non-profit entities has driven our efforts and initiatives throughout the year.

The fifth edition of our quarterly newsletter, CHEFA Insights!

CHEFA is preparing to build on the successes of the past year by pursuing several legislative initiatives that will support Connecticut’s economy, workforce, and increase access to post-secondary education. Here’s a look at what we’ll be working on in 2024: Increasing access to childcare: Dollar-for-dollar there is no better investment in Connecticut’s workforce than those […]

December 2, 2021-The Connecticut Health and Educational Facilities Authority (CHEFA) Board of Directors recently voted to award $1,050,056 in grant funding to sixteen organizations throughout Connecticut. CHEFA is one of the only funders providing grants statewide for programmatic and capital projects. The sixteen awards provide grants to entities in three out of the eight Connecticut […]

November 2022- Efforts to grow and diversify Connecticut’s healthcare workforce received a major boost when the Connecticut Health and Educational Facilities Authority (CHEFA) made several significant grant commitments to support recruitment, retention, and diversification initiatives throughout the state in its FY 2023 John M. Biancamano Client Grant Program. Over $220,000 was collectively awarded to Stamford […]

An inspiring story is unfolding at Mystic Aquarium thanks to support from the CHEFA grant program. At the center of this narrative is Nulin, a recent Occupational Therapy graduate whose journey exemplifies the values of inclusivity and transformation.

Recent legislation has expanded CHEFA’s authority to finance working capital expenses for Connecticut’s nonprofits. CHEFA’s staff has begun researching programs and would like to adopt a program that we think may be beneficial to our clients.

Proton therapy is a form of radiation treatment that disrupts and destroys tumor cells using precisely delivered energy. In comparison to traditional radiation treatment, proton therapy allows doctors to have better control where the energy is released, therefore impacting less healthy tissue and causing potentially fewer side effects.

The fourth edition of our quarterly newsletter, CHEFA Insights!

In the world of municipal bonds, setting the order priority is a key move when distributing bonds in the primary market. It’s a decision in the hands of the issuing entity and it carries big weight, impacting bond allocation and compensation for the involved firms.

In a collaborative effort, CHEFA recently embarked on an insightful site visit with Executive Staff from the American School f0r the Deaf, and Senator Derek Slap, Representative Jillian Gilchrest, and Representative James Sanchez. This initiative is part of CHEFA in the Community, showcasing our commitment to empower communities through education. Explore how CHEFA is working with ASD to enhance educational access for all Connecticut residents.

On June 7, 2023, Governor Ned Lamont signed Senate Bill 1104 into law, thereby modernizing and expanding CHEFA’s statutory authority. The key feature of the new law, Public Act 23-11 expands the definition of Project beyond brick and mortar to allow CHEFA to finance programs or services that is in furtherance of the organization or […]

Connecticut’s healthcare landscape faces numerous challenges, with disparities in access and quality of care prevalent across many communities. Community health workers (CHW) play a crucial role in improving health outcomes and promoting community well-being. With the support of CHEFA’s grant programs that awarded close to $500,000 in FY 2023, efforts to expand the presence of […]

According to recent reports from leading financial experts, the municipal bond market has been a turbulent ride in 2023. Factors such as bank failures, rate volatility, uncertainty surrounding the Federal Reserve’s policies, and weakened investor demand have shaped the market’s performance. Despite a strong start to the year, investors quickly encountered these challenges, adjusting to […]

The 2023 legislative session in Connecticut proved to be a lengthy and eventful period, running from January 4th to June 7th. With a total of 3616 pieces of legislation introduced, it was a session that witnessed a significant increase in bills impacting or naming CHEFA and its subsidiaries.

We are delighted to announce that the CHEFA Board of Directors has granted approval for the Brunswick School Issue, Series E, in the amount of up to $30 million. This decision was made during the June 21, 2023 Board Meeting, marking a significant milestone in the school’s development.

At the Board of Directors Meeting held on May 17th, Staff presented its annual review of the Authority’s Hospital portfolio, which included financial operating results for FY 2022, key utilization metrics and bond issue activity trends since FY 2019. The financial operating performance review was based on six stand-alone hospitals (including the Parent and subsidiaries) […]

The third edition of our quarterly newsletter, CHEFA Insights!

The Connecticut Health and Educational Facilities Authority (CHEFA) awarded more than $1 million in grants in its FY 2022 CHEFA Nonprofit Grant Program. The grants were made in the education, healthcare, and childcare sectors. The eighteen awards provide grants to entities in three out of the eight Connecticut counties, including: Hartford, New Haven, and Fairfield. […]

June 28, 2023 | 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM | Virtual

Connecticut’s effort to bolster statewide workforce initiatives received a major commitment by the CT Health and Educational Facilities Authority (CHEFA).  A total of $1M in grant funding was awarded by CHEFA’s Board of Directors at their January 19, 2022 meeting. This is the third year, since 2019, that CHEFA has committed $1M in funding to […]

Quinnipiac University is celebrating a major financial milestone after successfully pricing its tax-exempt, Series N Bonds. The University raised $58.955 million from the sale, which received a staggering $101.4 million worth of orders from investors.

Earlier this month CHEFA Executive Director Jeanette W. Weldon testified before the Higher Education and Employment Advancement Committee in support of SB 1104. SB 1104 is a priority bill for CHEFA. It will amend the current definition of project as outlined in CHEFA’s enabling statutes.

In March, CHEFA closed a $50,000 loan with Silvermine Guild of Artists, Inc. out of New Canaan, CT. This loan will enable Silvermine to purchase new tools and equipment for its various art studios, as well as update its telephone system. This is the first loan closed after CHEFA expanded its Revolving Loan Fund to include all 501(c)(3) organizations.

Did you know that the CHEFA Community Development Corporation (CHEFA CDC), a subsidiary of CHEFA, is a certified Community Development Entity and eligible to apply for Federal New Markets Tax Credits on behalf of nonprofits that serve Connecticut’s low-income communities?

At the Board of Directors Meeting held on March 22nd, Management presented a review of its Higher Education Sector report for FY 2022. This sector report reviews the performance of the ten private institutions and the Connecticut State University System that comprise CHEFA’s higher education portfolio, which consists of 60 bond series with $4.93 billion outstanding.

The second edition of our quarterly newsletter, CHEFA Insights!

The Connecticut Health and Educational Facilities Authority (CHEFA or the “Authority”), a State of Connecticut quasi-public agency, is requesting proposals from qualified firms wishing to provide entry-level, mid-level, executive and temporary staff search and recruitment services to the Authority. Please see attached document for scope of services and additional requirements. Proposal ScheduleRFP Issued on Monday, […]

CHEFA recently committed more than $1 million as part of the John M. Biancamano CHEFA Client Grant Program to support important programming throughout the state. Click here to learn more about how these funds are being used to support important initiatives throughout Connecticut, including programming to support healthcare workforce development, fight obesity, and increase access to STEM learning opportunities.

During the 2023 legislative session, CHEFA will pursue proposals that seek to enhance the welfare and prosperity of all Connecticut residents, while supporting workforce and community development efforts throughout the state.

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You asked, we listened!
CHEFA Staff conducted a survey of our clients earlier this year, which highlighted an overwhelming support for a CHEFA quarterly newsletter. Staff has been working hard on this new service, and we are very excited to share it with you.
In our inaugural issue of CHEFA Insights you’ll find tons of value, including information on the expansion of our Direct Lending Program to all nonprofits in CT, a summary of our recent bond pricing for the Hopkins School, as well as a 2022 election summary. You’ll also get access to a preview of our upcoming conference on Environmental Social Governance, and our new legislative proposal to establish a tax credit to incentivize private investment in low-income communities throughout CT.

CHESLA Executive Director Jeanette W. Weldon & Assistant Director Josh Hurlock recently interviewed with NBC CT’s Jane Caffrey to discuss the findings of the CHESLA economic impact study.

CHEFA will pursue legislation in the 2023 session to establish a Connecticut Low-Income Community Tax Credit Program, to create additional resources for nonprofits to address social and economic needs in Connecticut’s low-income communities.

While a handful of recounts are still pending, the results are unlikely to change the large majorities held by Democrats in the Senate and the House. Based on unofficial vote tallies, Democrats will likely maintain their 97-54 margin in the House and — at a minimum — their 23-13 margin in the Senate when the […]

Join us on December 8th from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM at the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving Conference Center in Hartford, CT, for our Client Conference regarding how climate risk and other ESG factors are being integrated into risk management.

On November 8, 2022, the Hopkins School successfully priced its $23.63 million, publicly rated, tax-exempt bond offering through CHEFA. Hopkins School, founded in 1660, is Connecticut’s oldest educational institution, serving day students in grades seven thru twelve and based in New Haven.

The Connecticut Student Loan Foundation (CSLF or the “Foundation”), a State of Connecticut quasi-public agency, is requesting proposals from qualified firms interested in providing loan servicing for the Foundation’s FFELP (Federal Family Education Loan Program) Loan portfolio, for a period of three (3) years, with options to extend for additional years. Please see attached document […]

CHEFA has expanded its Revolving Loan Fund Program to serve all Connecticut based nonprofits whose missions fall within designated sectors and has released the Annual Funding Cycle Notice: 2023A. This Notice makes funding available up to $50,000 to eligible nonprofits for purposes of financing capital projects. CHEFA is accepting loan applications on a first come, […]

This report was undertaken at the request of the Connecticut Higher Education Supplemental Loan Authority (CHESLA) to determine the economic impact of its college loan and scholarship program. CHESLA is a quasi-public entity of the state of Connecticut charged with helping to make college more affordable and attainable for the citizens of the state of […]

The Authority is requesting proposals from qualified firms interested in providing underwriter services to the Authority and its clients for a period not to exceed three (3) years. Please indicate in your response if your firm is seeking approval as a Senior Manager or Co-Manager. Firms which the Authority deems eligible to provide underwriter services […]

CHEFA seeks proposal for 2022 Bond Counsel for a period not to exceed three (3) years.

CHEFA seeks proposal for 2022 Internal Auditor Services for a period not to exceed three (3) years.

CHEFA seeks proposal to develop a web-based client portal.

CHESLA held a press conference with Governor Ned Lamont, Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz and the State Department of Education to announce the launch of the CHESLA Alliance District Teacher Loan Subsidy Program.

CHEFA commemorated the 20th Anniversary of its Grant Program at the annual Nonprofit Forum on June 23, 2022. The forum focused on the current state of health equity in Connecticut and what can be done to address the systemic hurdles preventing marginalized communities from having equitable access to healthcare.

The Center for Effective Philanthropy published a piece by Betty Sugerman Weintraub, CHEFA Manager of Grant Programs and Philanthropic Outreach, highlighting the need for philanthropy to fund capital infrastructure needs for nonprofit organizations. CHEFA is among the only Connecticut funders allowing organizations to apply for capital or program grants.

During the 2022 legislative session CHEFA pursued proposals sought to build on it’s track record of providing financial assistance to educational institutions, healthcare providers and other nonprofits. A number of proposals were contained in SB 103, which CHEFA worked with members of the legislature and Administration to pass.