BLOOMFIELD, Conn., May 14, 2021 – The Cigna Foundation announced today that it will begin accepting applications for its new Education and Workforce Development grant program later this month. This grant cycle is part of an ongoing focus to address social determinants of health and eliminate health disparities to achieve greater health outcomes overall.

Education and workforce development grants will support students enrolled in Pre-K, grades K-8 and high school, as well as post-secondary and adult education. The Cigna Foundation will also provide support to nonprofits that provide programming to increase the cultural competency of health care professionals by helping them better understand and address health disparities among vulnerable populations.

“The Cigna Foundation recognizes the important role that education plays in improving people’s lives and supporting overall public health – and we want to partner with nonprofits who share this commitment,” said Susan Stith, executive director, Cigna Foundation. “This includes encouraging youth to consider health-related jobs, supporting adults who are studying to become health care professionals, and expanding the conversation about health disparities.”

Nonprofit organizations are invited to apply for grants starting May 24. The grant application period will close June 18. Additional opportunities to apply for this grant program will be available in 2022.

The Cigna Foundation is looking for qualified nonprofit partners that will specifically address:

• Pre-K programs focused on improving cognitive and social development of children and increase their language, literacy, and math and science abilities.
• K-8 programs focused on helping students excel in language, literacy, and STEM subjects.
• High school programs focused on introducing students to health care careers, supporting them through successful graduation, and helping them continue on to furthering their education in preparation for health care jobs.
• Post-secondary and adult education programs that support adults pursuing health-related jobs in learning how to advance public health and improve health outcomes for all populations.

Please visit our current grant programs for additional updates and to access the application.

About Cigna Foundation
Cigna Foundation, established in 1962, is a private foundation funded by contributions from Cigna Corporation (NYSE:CI) and its subsidiaries. Cigna Foundation supports organizations sharing its commitment to enhancing the health of individuals and families, and the well-being of their communities, with a special focus on those communities where Cigna employees live and work.

In 2020, Cigna Foundation awarded more than $40 million in grants to support nonprofits that share our commitment to enhancing health & well-being and providing piece of mind for those who we serve.

Media Contact
Meaghan MacDonald
1 (860) 840-1212
meaghan.macdonald@cigna.com