South Carolina Education Grants

The CATALYST Grant aims to enhance the capabilities, efficiency, and competitiveness of small and medium-sized manufacturers in South Carolina by promoting the adoption of Advanced Manufacturing Technologies (AMT), Quality Management Systems (QMSs), and Lean Manufacturing tools. Eligible manufacturers must have a NAICS code beginning with 31, 32, or 33, be physically located in South Carolina for at least one year, operate within the Department of Defense supply chain, and employ at least four workers. The grant supports consultative assessments to identify opportunities for AMT deployment and funds pilot projects in areas such as augmented reality training, digital work instructions, and robotics. The grant application opens on October 5, 2023, following an informational webinar, and closes on June 30, 2024, or when all slots are filled. The grant provides funding for projects recommended by AMT assessments, as well as QMS and Lean Manufacturing implementations to help manufacturers eliminate waste and reduce rework, improving their effectiveness as DIB suppliers.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations and government agencies focused on improving health and well-being for families, particularly children and their caregivers, in Spartanburg County, South Carolina.

The Central Carolina Community Foundation is offering a grant to charitable, educational, or faith-based organizations serving the Greater Chapin area in South Carolina, aimed at addressing critical needs, developing skills, leveraging funding, providing opportunities for underserved populations, and building community strengths, with applications due by 09/30/2024.

The Greenville Zoo Conservation Grants program is designed to support and promote conservation efforts that enhance the quality of life for all living things, directly aligning with the foundation's mission of promoting conservation and sustainability, seeking knowledge through science, and collaborating to maximize impact. This program is funded through the “Quarters for Conservation” initiative and supports both local conservation projects in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia, as well as national and international endeavors. The target beneficiaries are free-ranging wildlife and their habitats, as well as communities and individuals who can be educated or empowered in conservation. The program aims for several impact goals, including the long-term survival of species in natural ecosystems, increased public awareness and appreciation of wildlife conservation issues, and the transfer of conservation skills and technology. Expected outcomes include a reduction in human-wildlife conflict, successful reintroduction programs, improved water quality, and the creation of new conservation leaders. The program prioritizes projects focusing on Field Conservation, Conservation Research, and Conservation Education. Local projects receive preferred funding, and greater weight is given to applications addressing species and habitats at risk. This strategic focus ensures that resources are directed to areas with the most urgent needs and potential for significant impact, reflecting the zoo's commitment to protecting vulnerable ecosystems and species. The funding structure includes a New Grants Program for first-time applicants, offering $300 to $1,500, and a Continuing Grants Program for established partners, providing up to $3,500. This tiered approach supports both emerging and ongoing conservation initiatives, fostering long-term relationships with successful grantees. The overall theory of change is that by investing in scientific research, education, and direct field action, the program can collectively contribute to a more sustainable future for wildlife and natural habitats.

The Gambrill Foundation focuses on supporting charitable causes that uplift and positively impact residents of Anderson County, South Carolina. Its mission aligns with organizations pursuing religious, charitable, scientific, literary, or educational purposes as defined by Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. This broad scope allows the foundation to address a variety of community needs, with a clear geographic and impact-driven approach. The target beneficiaries are residents of Anderson County, South Carolina, with an emphasis on those served by libraries, churches, universities, and colleges. The foundation aims for a measurable impact within this area, benefiting a substantial number of residents. Grantmaking priorities reflect a strategic approach, favoring capital or special projects over general operational use, and prioritizing grants that can be matched by other funding sources. This indicates a desire for sustainable and leveraged impact. The foundation's program areas are diverse, encompassing arts, culture, and humanities, education, environment, animals, health, human services, public/society benefit, and religion. This wide array demonstrates a commitment to holistic community development. The average grant size ranges from $5,000 to $15,000, with an average total annual giving of $175,000, suggesting a focus on supporting multiple impactful initiatives rather than a few large-scale projects. Expected outcomes include the measurable improvement of the lives of Anderson County residents through supported programs and services. The foundation's theory of change appears to be rooted in empowering local organizations that are well-aligned with its mission and values, and that possess the financial ability to sustain funded programs. By prioritizing matched funds and capital projects, the foundation aims to maximize the long-term effectiveness and reach of its grants, thereby fostering a stronger, more vibrant community in Anderson County.

This funding opportunity supports educators in Lancaster County, Fort Lawn, and Great Falls, South Carolina, by providing financial resources for innovative and collaborative projects that enhance student learning.

The BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina Foundation is offering Heal Mini-Grants, a funding opportunity designed to support healthy eating or active living projects. These grants specifically target policy, systems, and environmental (PSE) change in community health. The foundation's mission, as evidenced by its past award to Wholespire, is to promote the health of South Carolina’s economically challenged population. The Heal Mini-Grants align with this mission by creating opportunities for equitable access to healthy food and safe places for physical activity, recognizing that individual choices are influenced by available options. The target beneficiaries include community members, students, employees, and devout individuals who will benefit from increased opportunities to make healthy choices and engage in physical activity. The impact goals are to foster healthier communities by addressing systemic barriers to well-being. This is achieved by supporting projects that either serve as seed money for new initiatives, help progress existing ones, or provide the final push to complete ongoing projects, all within a 9-month grant period. The program's priorities and focus areas are exclusively related to healthy eating and/or active living, with a strong emphasis on implementing or supporting PSE change projects. Examples of funded projects include establishing or promoting SNAP/Healthy Bucks at farmers' markets, creating sustainable food-gleaning stations, installing water bottle refill stations, improving playgrounds, supporting active communities with bike racks and crosswalks, and enhancing community trails with signage and amenities. These examples highlight the commitment to creating environments that naturally encourage healthier lifestyles. Expected outcomes include increased access to healthy food options and greater opportunities for physical activity within communities. Measurable results would stem from the implementation of tangible PSE changes, such as the establishment of new programs, improvements to existing infrastructure, or the adoption of supportive policies. The foundation's strategic priorities are clearly centered on community health improvement through practical, environmental interventions. Their theory of change appears to be that by altering the policy, systems, and environmental landscape, individuals will naturally be empowered to make healthier choices, leading to a more active and well-nourished population.

This funding opportunity supports programs that help individuals of all ages achieve their educational goals and develop their physical, emotional, and intellectual potential.

READY Community Foundations, part of ARC's READY Appalachia initiative, offers no-cost training to community foundations in Appalachia. Participants will build skills in financial management, fundraising, grantmaking, and strategic planning. Eligible foundations can apply for up to $25,000 in funding to implement capacity-building projects post-training. Applications are due by July 5, 2024.

The Greenwood County Community Foundation's Community Impact Grants aim to enrich the lives of residents in Greenwood County by supporting local organizations. These grants, specifically within the Youth and Education category, focus on providing an educational foundation that enables individuals to reach their fullest physical, emotional, and intellectual potential. Eligible projects may include education attainment initiatives, early childhood development and education programs, afterschool and summer programs, and adult education efforts. Grant renewed every year. Grant Annual opening/ closing deadline: February 1st to February 28th

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations and higher education institutions for initiatives that improve earthquake safety and awareness across multiple states or nationally.

This funding opportunity is designed for organizations in York County that provide programs in financial literacy, workforce development, and economic and family support to help families achieve financial stability.

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) have established the Hurricane Response Marine Debris Removal Fund. This fund supports projects focused on assessing, removing, and disposing of marine debris in coastal communities affected by hurricanes and other storm events. The initiative aligns with the foundations' broader mission to conserve and restore fish, wildlife, and their habitats, as well as to benefit human communities impacted by natural disasters. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant program are coastal communities in Alaska, Florida, Georgia, Puerto Rico, and South Carolina that were impacted by the 2022 hurricanes Fiona, Ian, Nicole, and Typhoon Merbok. The impact goals are to reduce the effects of marine debris on these communities, protect industries, and prevent further harm to habitats and fish and wildlife populations. The program aims to address both the immediate and long-term consequences of storm-related marine debris. The program prioritizes projects that offer dual benefits, meaning they benefit both human communities and fish and wildlife. Emphasis is placed on projects that are ready for direct clean-up efforts and have already completed marine debris assessments, addressed hazardous materials, and secured necessary permits and disposal logistics. Community engagement and co-design processes that incorporate traditional knowledge are also encouraged to ensure maximum benefits and sustainability. Expected outcomes include a significant reduction in marine debris from coastal habitats and nearshore waters, leading to enhanced ecological integrity and functionality of ecosystems. Measurable results will include the reduction of impacts to properties, community infrastructure, assets of economic and cultural importance, and improved navigational safety. The grant duration is four years, with awards of up to $6 million to achieve these accelerated and comprehensive outcomes for impacted coastal resources and communities.

The Animal Services Responsive Grant, offered by the San Antonio Area Foundation, aims to improve the quality of life for all animals, educate the community on responsible pet care, and enhance spay/neuter and adoption services. This aligns with the foundation's broader mission to support vital community needs, ensuring that organizations dedicated to animal welfare receive the necessary funding to operate and expand their reach. By focusing on these key areas, the grant seeks to create a more humane environment for animals and foster responsible pet ownership within the community. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are animals in need, as well as the communities and individuals who benefit from enhanced animal welfare services. The grant targets organizations working in specific Texas counties: Atascosa, Bandera, Bexar, Comal, Guadalupe, Kendall, Medina, and Wilson. The impact goals are centered on reducing animal suffering, increasing pet adoptions, promoting spay/neuter initiatives to control pet overpopulation, and educating the public on best practices for animal care. The grant prioritizes nonprofit organizations that demonstrate a clear commitment to these objectives and have a proven track record of serving their local animal populations. The program's priorities include supporting direct animal care services, public education campaigns, and programs that facilitate adoption and spay/neuter. The expected outcomes are a measurable reduction in the number of homeless and neglected animals, an increase in responsible pet ownership, and a more informed community regarding animal welfare issues. Measurable results are tied to the organizational budget and corresponding award amounts, indicating that larger, more established organizations with greater capacity are expected to achieve more significant outcomes. For instance, organizations with budgets over $1,000,000 are eligible for a $50,000 award, implying an expectation of broader impact. The San Antonio Area Foundation's strategic priorities, as demonstrated by this grant, include fostering community well-being through targeted support for critical services. Their theory of change appears to be that by providing financial resources to qualified animal welfare organizations, these organizations will be empowered to implement effective programs that directly address the root causes of animal neglect and overpopulation, ultimately leading to a healthier and more compassionate community for both humans and animals. The eligibility criteria, such as requiring 501(c)(3) status and local operation, ensure that funding is directed to legitimate and impactful entities. This grant does not support endowments, capital campaigns, religious purposes, scholarships, political activities, or lobbying efforts. This restriction further refines the foundation's strategic focus, ensuring that funds are directly applied to programmatic efforts that align with the core goals of animal services. The focus is strictly on responsive grants that address immediate and ongoing needs, rather than long-term institutional building or advocacy.

This program provides free marketing support to nonprofit organizations based in Greenville, SC, helping them improve their branding and messaging to better serve the local community.

The Josephine Moffatt Stevenson Community Charitable Trust offers grants to promote charitable activities in South Carolina, specifically supporting medical, educational, and religious organizations. This aligns with the foundation's mission to enhance community well-being through strategic funding in key areas. The trust prioritizes organizations located in Abbeville County, Anderson County, and the Due West community, demonstrating a focused approach to local impact. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are organizations providing medical, educational, and religious services within South Carolina, with a particular emphasis on the specified counties. The impact goals include strengthening these sectors, fostering community development, and improving the quality of life for residents in these areas. While specific measurable results are not detailed in the provided information, the average grant size of $1,000-$7,000 and average total giving of $50,000 per year indicate a commitment to consistent, albeit localized, support. The trust's grantmaking priorities clearly focus on geographic limitations and organizational type. Grants are restricted to South Carolina, with a strong preference for Abbeville County, Anderson County, and the Due West community. Furthermore, only organizations qualifying as 501(c)(3) exempt organizations that are medical, educational, or religious are eligible. This structured approach ensures that funding is directed towards areas and services most aligned with the trust's foundational objectives. The foundation's strategic priorities and theory of change appear to center on the belief that by investing in established community organizations within critical sectors (education, health, religion, and human services), they can achieve positive and lasting change at a local level. By supporting 501(c)(3) compliant entities, the trust ensures that its contributions go to legitimate and impactful organizations. The online application process also suggests a commitment to accessibility for potential grantees.

The **Sisters of Charity Foundation of South Carolina** offers **Immediate Needs Grants** to support organizations that address the most pressing and basic needs of individuals and families experiencing poverty across South Carolina. These grants are intended to help nonprofits provide direct services and essential resources that contribute to stability, dignity, and improved quality of life. By funding programs that deliver immediate relief and empower long-term self-sufficiency, the foundation continues its mission of reducing poverty and fostering compassion-driven community change throughout the state. Grants in this category are awarded to organizations delivering programs that meet needs related to **life and health**, **education and skills**, and **access and participation**. Examples of eligible initiatives include programs offering food assistance, mental health support, healthcare access, housing, literacy education, vocational training, affordable childcare, or transportation services. Each grant provides **$5,000** in funding, and **Cycle II Immediate Needs Grants** specifically target organizations with annual operating budgets of **$500,000 or more**, ensuring that established service providers have resources to meet urgent community challenges. The foundation evaluates applicants based on their demonstrated impact, community engagement, and accountability. Eligible organizations must identify and fill gaps in local resources, gather and apply participant feedback, and define clear measures of program success. Funded programs must have a direct and immediate effect on people’s daily lives, improving access to essential services and strengthening participants’ ability to thrive despite economic hardship. The grants aim to support both the continuity and expansion of programs that have proven effectiveness in addressing the complex realities of poverty. Eligibility is limited to organizations operating **within South Carolina** that have been established for at least one year. The foundation does not fund individuals, capital campaigns, scholarships, or organizations whose missions do not directly address poverty. Instead, it focuses on nonprofits that demonstrate strong community relationships, responsiveness to local needs, and an ability to deliver measurable outcomes tied to human well-being. Through the Immediate Needs Grant program, the Sisters of Charity Foundation reaffirms its enduring commitment to serving South Carolinians with compassion and equity. By supporting programs that meet basic needs while fostering education, access, and health, the foundation works toward its broader vision—a South Carolina where all individuals have the opportunity to live with dignity, security, and hope.

This grant provides funding to South Carolina municipalities, litter control organizations, and community groups for litter removal projects, especially in areas that are challenging for volunteers to access safely.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations and government units in specific Georgia and South Carolina counties to support impactful programs that improve the lives of women and children through arts, education, health, and social well-being initiatives.

This funding opportunity is designed to support local educational agencies and organizations in providing enhanced educational services to migratory children and youth in South Carolina, helping them achieve academic success and graduate high school.