Best Anderson County Grants for Nonprofits in South Carolina

South Carolina Department of Commerce

From site selection to infrastructure improvement, we are here to help grow new and existing businesses.

SC Commerce promotes economic opportunity for individuals and businesses through initiatives like workforce training. As a national leader in foreign direct investment, the state extends its global reach with offices in Europe and Asia that help existing companies in developing export markets.

South Carolina Community Development Block Grant

The South Carolina Community Development Block Grant (“State CDBG Program”) is designed to aid units of general local government in improving economic opportunities and meeting community revitalization needs, particularly for persons of low- and moderate-income. The State CDBG Program has been funded through the State since 1982 by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended (Title I). 

CDBG Program Goals and Outcomes

The SC Department of Commerce seeks to improve the well-being of all South Carolinians in a manner that supports and enhances a high quality of life. The State CDBG Program supports the agency’s efforts to strengthen communities through revitalization and improvement of neighborhoods, public infrastructure, and the local economy. 

The three overarching goals of the HUD CDBG program are to provide decent housing, economic opportunities and a suitable living environment. Within the context of these goals, each project funded by the State must also meet one of three outcomes identified by HUD: affordability, accessibility, or sustainability. 

Local Match/Leveraging

CDBG projects are expected to leverage other public and private investments and serve as a catalyst for future development.

There must be a 10% match of the total CDBG request, unless otherwise approved, which can come from a variety of committed sources including other grants, loans, waiver of fees, public or private investments, and documented volunteer or in-kind contributions. Matching funds must be immediately available for the project at the time of application. 

Community Development Block Grant Categories

There are three broad grant program categories: Community Development, Business Development, and Regional Planning. The Community Development Program is further broken down into several subcategories to address infrastructure, community facilities, and local priorities.

Community Development Programs

Description

This program is designed to produce outcomes that improve citizens’ quality of life and create a competitive environment for jobs and investment by addressing priority community development needs. Activities should contribute to healthy, safe and sustainable neighborhoods and communities. These grants are designed to improve the quality of life for distressed and LMI communities. Community Development projects will compete within the following subcategories that have the same general submission requirements, except that the Ready to Go Program will not be funded in a competitive funding round.

Community Development Program Categories: Community Infrastructure; Community Enrichment; Local Priorities Program; and Ready to Go Program

Community Infrastructure Grants

Outcome and Priorities

A Community Infrastructure application must contribute to creation of healthy and sustainable residential communities through water, sewer, roads, drainage or other activities that address one or more of the priorities listed in order of importance:

Significant improvements to existing infrastructure to address health concerns, meet required quality standards, ensure community sustainability or improve resiliency.

Projects that result in a more viable regional infrastructure solution or that provide new access to services near business centers where it is cost effective to address a documented health threat

Upgrades to infrastructure to address quality standards where there are only general health concerns or provide new services that are not near business centers when it is cost effective to address a documented health threat

The Piedmont Natural Gas Company Grant Program, part of the Duke Energy Foundation, supports community vitality through grants of $20,000 or less. Focus areas include vibrant economies, climate resiliency, and promoting opportunity and inclusion. Eligible organizations must have tax-exempt status and serve communities without discrimination. The foundation prioritizes measurable community impact and does not fund certain entities, including for-profits and religious organizations. Applications are accepted year-round on a rolling basis.

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on supporting organizations that empower communities through basic needs, income creation, and stable housing. By investing in health and job opportunities, they aim to enhance economic mobility for low- and moderate-income families. Their partnerships target vulnerable populations, ensuring equitable access to resources that foster community vitality and resilience. This initiative emphasizes the importance of stable housing as a foundation for personal and communal growth.

The Spinks Family Foundation offers small grants to support non-profit organizations dedicated to improving community life in South Carolina. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) certified, with a focus on volunteer engagement and community services. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and reviewed quarterly, providing essential funding for initiatives in education, health, and food security. This philanthropic effort aims to foster strong, healthy communities and enhance the well-being of residents.

The Spinks Family Foundation provides large grants of $10,000 and above annually to support non-profit organizations focused on education, food security, health, and mental health initiatives. Organizations must be 501(c)3 certified and demonstrate community impact with at least 500 volunteer hours. Applications are accepted from March 1 to March 30, and awards are announced by September 15. This initiative aims to empower nonprofits to effectively address pressing community needs.

Academy Sports + Outdoors, a leading sporting goods retailer, supports community initiatives by providing donations to registered 501(c)(3) organizations. Their focus is on promoting safety and responsibility in sports and outdoor activities. Proposals must foster community engagement and must not be affiliated with religious or political groups. Events should take place in areas with Academy stores, ensuring a positive local impact while encouraging active lifestyles and connection among community members.

The Gambrill Foundation provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations for religious, charitable, scientific, literary, or educational purposes, primarily within Anderson County, South Carolina. Eligible applicants must align with the Foundation's mission and demonstrate measurable community impact. Preference is given to libraries, churches, and educational institutions, particularly for capital projects. The Foundation does not fund annual appeals, endowments, or operating expenses. Grants are awarded at the discretion of the Co-Trustees.

The TD Charitable Foundation has been dedicated to improving community quality of life since 2002, contributing over $254 million to non-profit organizations. They fund initiatives aligned with their corporate citizenship goals, focusing on Better Health, Connected Communities, Financial Security, and Vibrant Planet. Special consideration is given to programs that support inclusivity for diverse and historically underserved communities. Their commitment to enhancing lives through targeted grants reflects their core values and social responsibility.

The SC INBRE: Mentored Student Pilot Projects (MSP) program offers undergraduate and graduate students in South Carolina funding of $3,000 for one year to conduct small, well-defined research projects under faculty mentorship. This initiative supports career development and hands-on training in biomedical research, enhancing the research capacity of member institutions. Applications are encouraged from students who have not previously held an SIRP award, fostering diversity in research participation.

The Housing for Everyone Grant Competition, part of the 2026 Initiative, aims to support eviction prevention in low-to moderate-income communities. This 20th annual initiative recognizes the destabilizing impact of eviction and displacement on families, which leads to job loss, school disruptions, and health issues. By funding innovative organizations, the competition seeks to provide stability for renters, enabling them to stay in their homes and communities.

Indigo Hope Foundation: Addiction Recovery Programs Grant

Funding programs that offer treatment, counseling, recovery support services, and harm reduction for individuals battling addiction.

Key Focus Areas:

• Treatment Services
• Recovery Support
• Harm Reduction
• Family Programs

Example Programs We Fund:

• Outpatient counseling programs
• Peer recovery support
• Addiction Recovery Residential Programs
• Family therapy services

Indigo Hope Foundation: At-Risk Youth Development Grant

Empowering programs that provide mentorship, education, life skills training, and opportunities for young people facing challenges.

Key Focus Areas:

• Mentorship Programs
• Educational Support
• Life Skills Training
• Career Development

Example Programs We Fund:

• After-school tutoring and mentorship
• Job readiness training
• Leadership development

The Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund provides grants to support communities in the U.S. and Canada where the company operates. Focused on affordable housing, education, environmental stewardship, and more, the fund emphasizes projects that meet local needs and demonstrate community support. Eligible organizations include nonprofits and educational institutions. Applications are accepted year-round with a deadline for 2025 on September 30. National initiatives related to working forests are funded by invitation only.

Spectrum Digital Education Grants support nonprofit organizations in educating communities about broadband benefits and usage. These grants aim to bridge the digital divide, particularly for seniors and those with disabilities or ethnically diverse backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate community partnership, address specific needs, and provide measurable impact metrics. With a focus on financial feasibility and meaningful outcomes, this initiative ensures that underrepresented urban and rural communities gain access to essential digital resources, fostering long-term improvement in their lives.

Indigo Hope Foundation: First Responder Wellness Grant

Supporting programs that provide mental health resources, training, family support, and wellness services for our first responders.

Key Focus Areas:

• Mental Health Support
• Family Services
• Training Programs
• Peer Support

Example Programs We Fund:

• Critical incident stress management
• Family counseling services
• Peer support programs
• Wellness and resilience training

The Brinker International Charitable Giving Program focuses on giving back to communities through support for kids, hunger, and education. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501c(3) non-profits and submit requests at least six weeks prior to events. The program does not support individuals, political or religious organizations, or explicit discrimination policies. Funding is provided through monetary donations or in-kind contributions like dining certificates.

The WebbCraft Family Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations that enhance education and cultural awareness. Established in 2000, the foundation has awarded over $3.3 million to various programs. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations focused on education and community development in the Belton and Honea Path areas. This funding aims to foster growth and opportunity within these communities, making a significant impact on local arts and educational initiatives.

Indigo Hope Foundation: Veterans Support Services Grant

Assisting organizations that serve our veterans with housing, healthcare, job training, mental health services, and family support.

Key Focus Areas:

• Housing Assistance
• Mental Health Services
• Job Training
• Family Support

Example Programs We Fund:

• PTSD counseling services including canine training programs
• Job placement programs
• Emergency housing assistance
• Veterans court support

The Barbara Stone Foundation

Barbara Stone served as a champion for individuals with disabilities and the Foundation strives to continue her legacy. The Barbara Stone Foundation is a 501 (C) 3 non-profit organization based in Greenville County, South Carolina.

Our primary focus is to influence community systems policies and culture to result in equitable opportunities for individuals with disabilities. We do this by identifying gaps in the system, investing in or creating our own innovative programs, leveraging partnerships in the community and through our signature initiative Greenville CAN. Greenville CAN is a multi-stakeholder collective impact coalition focused on creating systemic community change through specific community projects focused on people with disabilities. Through our multi-faceted approach we believe we can achieve our vision of a community where all people with disabilities flourish.

Barbara Stone Foundation: Community Innovations Grant

The Barbara Stone Foundation is committed to empowering individuals with disabilities. One of the ways we do this is by investing in innovative programs and initiatives that address unmet needs and provide creative solutions for the disability community in the Upstate of South Carolina. Our Community Innovations Grant program prioritizes applications that propose groundbreaking approaches to bridging service gaps and fostering inclusion. Our hope is that creative individuals and organizations in our community’s amazing network of providers will develop new ways to ensure our community is place where individuals with disabilities flourish.

The Barbara Stone Foundation

Barbara Stone served as a champion for individuals with disabilities and the Foundation strives to continue her legacy. The Barbara Stone Foundation is a 501 (C) 3 non-profit organization based in Greenville County, South Carolina.

Our primary focus is to influence community systems policies and culture to result in equitable opportunities for individuals with disabilities. We do this by identifying gaps in the system, investing in or creating our own innovative programs, leveraging partnerships in the community and through our signature initiative Greenville CAN. Greenville CAN is a multi-stakeholder collective impact coalition focused on creating systemic community change through specific community projects focused on people with disabilities. Through our multi-faceted approach we believe we can achieve our vision of a community where all people with disabilities flourish.

Barbara Stone Community Leadership Award

Barbara Stone was an instrumental leader in the Greenville community when it came to the services and rights of people with disabilities. Her decades-long mission made a profound impact on the quality of life of many people with disabilities in Greenville County. Like Barbara, there are many dedicated individuals in Greenville who still carry on her legacy of service and giving. It is with great pride that the Barbara Stone Foundation has created an annual Community Leadership Award to honor an individual who has shown the same commitment, initiative and spirit. If you know of an individual who you think embodies some of the same characteristics as Ms Stone, we invite you to nominate this person. 

Barbara Stone led efforts to unify community and government leaders to establish day program options for children with disabilities and employment workshops for adults. In 1968, she helped establish a day camp for children and adults with disabilities and special needs which has grown into a wonderful summer camp called Camp Spearhead. Because of her, seeds were planted to establish many services that still exist today. Barbara’s legacy and determination to support individuals’ lives is now carried on through the Foundation which bears her name.

The TD Bank Community Sponsorships Program, supported by the TD Charitable Foundation, provides funding for events and activities that positively impact communities from Maine to Florida. This initiative aims to enhance community awareness and foster partnerships among diverse groups, promoting economic development, cultural enrichment, and social responsibility. Organizations can apply for funding to support community-oriented programs, with applications reviewed quarterly. It's essential to submit applications at least 90 days before the event deadlines.

ATI Physical Therapy is dedicated to enhancing community health and wellness through its sponsorship and donation initiatives. With a mission to exceed customer expectations, ATI actively engages in philanthropic efforts that improve lives and promote quality care beyond clinic walls. They encourage requests for support while emphasizing a review process that ensures timely responses. Partnering with local organizations, ATI aims to elevate awareness of health and wellness, impacting thousands of lives each year.

The Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization (POWER) Initiative aims to revitalize communities impacted by coal industry transitions. This initiative provides funding for projects that diversify local economies, enhance job training, and create new employment opportunities. By fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, the POWER Initiative supports strategic investments that align with regional economic development plans, ensuring a more resilient future for coal-affected areas.

South Carolina Department of Commerce

From site selection to infrastructure improvement, we are here to help grow new and existing businesses.

SC Commerce promotes economic opportunity for individuals and businesses through initiatives like workforce training. As a national leader in foreign direct investment, the state extends its global reach with offices in Europe and Asia that help existing companies in developing export markets.

South Carolina Community Development Block Grant

The South Carolina Community Development Block Grant (“State CDBG Program”) is designed to aid units of general local government in improving economic opportunities and meeting community revitalization needs, particularly for persons of low- and moderate-income. The State CDBG Program has been funded through the State since 1982 by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended (Title I). 

CDBG Program Goals and Outcomes

The SC Department of Commerce seeks to improve the well-being of all South Carolinians in a manner that supports and enhances a high quality of life. The State CDBG Program supports the agency’s efforts to strengthen communities through revitalization and improvement of neighborhoods, public infrastructure, and the local economy. 

The three overarching goals of the HUD CDBG program are to provide decent housing, economic opportunities and a suitable living environment. Within the context of these goals, each project funded by the State must also meet one of three outcomes identified by HUD: affordability, accessibility, or sustainability. 

Local Match/Leveraging

CDBG projects are expected to leverage other public and private investments and serve as a catalyst for future development.

There must be a 10% match of the total CDBG request, unless otherwise approved, which can come from a variety of committed sources including other grants, loans, waiver of fees, public or private investments, and documented volunteer or in-kind contributions. Matching funds must be immediately available for the project at the time of application. 

Community Development Block Grant Categories

There are three broad grant program categories: Community Development, Business Development, and Regional Planning. The Community Development Program is further broken down into several subcategories to address infrastructure, community facilities, and local priorities.

Regional Planning Program

This program is designed to provide CDBG funds to Councils of Governments to assist local governments in developing plans and building local community development capacity. This assistance will build capacity to effectively determine community needs, long-term goals and short-term objectives, and develop plans for carrying out effective strategies to address community needs. Specific activities related to the State’s Consolidated Plan may be required. The planning assistance is not limited to the jurisdiction of the applicant and will include both regional and local planning and technical assistance activities. However, planning activities should only be conducted in non-entitlement communities.

Requirement

One applicant from each regional planning district may apply for this assistance. Each of the counties within a regional planning district must enter into an Intergovernmental Agreement to apply for and implement regional planning assistance grants. This Agreement will designate a lead county to apply for the grant to comply with all requirements of the application and grant, and it should be reviewed each year and updated as necessary to make sure it reflects current officials and jurisdictions.

South Carolina Department of Commerce

From site selection to infrastructure improvement, we are here to help grow new and existing businesses.

SC Commerce promotes economic opportunity for individuals and businesses through initiatives like workforce training. As a national leader in foreign direct investment, the state extends its global reach with offices in Europe and Asia that help existing companies in developing export markets.

South Carolina Community Development Block Grant

The South Carolina Community Development Block Grant (“State CDBG Program”) is designed to aid units of general local government in improving economic opportunities and meeting community revitalization needs, particularly for persons of low- and moderate-income. The State CDBG Program has been funded through the State since 1982 by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended (Title I). 

CDBG Program Goals and Outcomes

The SC Department of Commerce seeks to improve the well-being of all South Carolinians in a manner that supports and enhances a high quality of life. The State CDBG Program supports the agency’s efforts to strengthen communities through revitalization and improvement of neighborhoods, public infrastructure, and the local economy. 

The three overarching goals of the HUD CDBG program are to provide decent housing, economic opportunities and a suitable living environment. Within the context of these goals, each project funded by the State must also meet one of three outcomes identified by HUD: affordability, accessibility, or sustainability. 

Local Match/Leveraging

CDBG projects are expected to leverage other public and private investments and serve as a catalyst for future development.

There must be a 10% match of the total CDBG request, unless otherwise approved, which can come from a variety of committed sources including other grants, loans, waiver of fees, public or private investments, and documented volunteer or in-kind contributions. Matching funds must be immediately available for the project at the time of application. 

Community Development Block Grant Categories

There are three broad grant program categories: Community Development, Business Development, and Regional Planning. The Community Development Program is further broken down into several subcategories to address infrastructure, community facilities, and local priorities.

Business Development Programs

This program provides financial resources for local governments to pursue opportunities that create new jobs, retain existing employment, stimulate private investment, and revitalize or facilitate the competitiveness of the local economy. Funding will be prioritized based on the following order:

New or expanding businesses tied to job creation

Area economic development activities not associated with job creation

New or expanding local businesses that provide essential goods and services in predominately LMI communities 

The Truliant Mini Grants program offers $1,500 grants to 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving Truliant member communities. These grants support capacity building through staff training and development, along with materials for programs aligned with Truliant's focus areas: Social Mobility, Financial Wellness, and Workforce Education. Eligible organizations must have an operating budget under $500,000, be tax-exempt, and have been operating for at least three years, ensuring community engagement and sustainability.

South Carolina Department of Commerce

From site selection to infrastructure improvement, we are here to help grow new and existing businesses.

SC Commerce promotes economic opportunity for individuals and businesses through initiatives like workforce training. As a national leader in foreign direct investment, the state extends its global reach with offices in Europe and Asia that help existing companies in developing export markets.

South Carolina Community Development Block Grant

The South Carolina Community Development Block Grant (“State CDBG Program”) is designed to aid units of general local government in improving economic opportunities and meeting community revitalization needs, particularly for persons of low- and moderate-income. The State CDBG Program has been funded through the State since 1982 by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended (Title I). 

CDBG Program Goals and Outcomes

The SC Department of Commerce seeks to improve the well-being of all South Carolinians in a manner that supports and enhances a high quality of life. The State CDBG Program supports the agency’s efforts to strengthen communities through revitalization and improvement of neighborhoods, public infrastructure, and the local economy. 

The three overarching goals of the HUD CDBG program are to provide decent housing, economic opportunities and a suitable living environment. Within the context of these goals, each project funded by the State must also meet one of three outcomes identified by HUD: affordability, accessibility, or sustainability. 

Local Match/Leveraging

CDBG projects are expected to leverage other public and private investments and serve as a catalyst for future development.

There must be a 10% match of the total CDBG request, unless otherwise approved, which can come from a variety of committed sources including other grants, loans, waiver of fees, public or private investments, and documented volunteer or in-kind contributions. Matching funds must be immediately available for the project at the time of application. 

Community Development Block Grant Categories

There are three broad grant program categories: Community Development, Business Development, and Regional Planning. The Community Development Program is further broken down into several subcategories to address infrastructure, community facilities, and local priorities.

Community Development Programs

Description

This program is designed to produce outcomes that improve citizens’ quality of life and create a competitive environment for jobs and investment by addressing priority community development needs. Activities should contribute to healthy, safe and sustainable neighborhoods and communities. These grants are designed to improve the quality of life for distressed and LMI communities. Community Development projects will compete within the following subcategories that have the same general submission requirements, except that the Ready to Go Program will not be funded in a competitive funding round.

Community Development Program Categories: Community Infrastructure; Community Enrichment; Local Priorities Program; and Ready to Go Program

Ready To Go Program

Outcome

This program is designed to stimulate the local economy by addressing urgent or compelling community needs. Funding may also be used for pilot projects which have been developed in coordination with, and have been approved by, the State CDBG Program. The goal is encouraging innovation, the timely implementation of CDBG eligible projects, and cost effectiveness. The project requires an upfront investment of local and other funds for planning, project design and permitting that is substantially equivalent to the required 10% local match.

The project must be an eligible public facility improvement under the Community Infrastructure, Community Enrichment, or Local Priorities program. All required project activities leading up to bidding must be complete prior to submission of the application including but not limited to project design, environmental review, acquisition and permits. CDBG funds may only be used for construction or demolition.