Best Chester County Grants for Nonprofits in South Carolina

Lexington Medical Center Foundation Inc

Since 1971, Lexington Health has grown and expanded to meet the needs of our community. The Lexington Health Foundation Remains Committed to Quality Care. Foundation-funded programs aim to enhance patient experiences and touch the various areas of care at Lexington Health — Patient, Employee, and Community Care.

Event and Project Sponsorship

Lexington Medical Center supports local organizations and nonprofits throughout the Midlands.

We support local events and causes that enhance the health and vibrance of our community. You can request sponsorship or other assistance for a project or event based in the South Carolina Midlands community.

Speedway Children's Charities (SCC) is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to supporting children in need across the nation. With over $61 million granted since 1982, SCC is refocusing its efforts to address the urgent challenges of homelessness and human trafficking in the Charlotte area. This shift aims to prioritize funding for organizations that assist orphaned and foster children, ensuring that critical needs such as food, shelter, and education are met for vulnerable populations.

The Albemarle Foundation Impact Grants support local 501(c)(3) organizations within 50 miles of Albemarle Corporation locations, offering up to $15,000 in funding for community programs. Open twice a year, these grants aim to enhance workforce development, promote economic vitality, and foster inclusive communities. Eligible applicants can receive funding only once per calendar year. The Foundation prioritizes organizations that do not discriminate based on race, gender, or other protected categories.

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.

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. 

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.

The Synthomer Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations across the U.S. in education, health, civic initiatives, and the arts. With a legacy spanning over 60 years, the Foundation has awarded $1.3 million in 2024 alone to enhance community well-being. Organizations must be tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) to qualify, while those that discriminate or engage in political activities are ineligible. Through financial support and volunteerism, the Foundation is dedicated to uplifting communities and fostering a culture of giving.

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

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.

The Springs Close Foundation Grant supports tax-exempt organizations serving Chester, Lancaster, and York counties, focusing on programs that address critical needs such as food, shelter, and education. Established in 1942, the foundation has allocated nearly $150 million to enhance community well-being. It emphasizes project-based funding, requiring detailed project breakdowns and collaboration with local consultants for grant applications. This approach ensures that the foundation aligns its resources with the specific needs identified by its community boards.

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

Local Priorities Program

Outcome and Priorities

This program is designed to address unique local and regional needs and priorities for addressing those needs through community development, including projects that reflect priorities established in conjunction with the S.C. Department of Commerce Business Incentives & Community Development Division. Projects may reflect community development needs that are not typically funded through the other State CDBG programs and generally should not be funded by other HUD partner programs, such as HOME and NHTF (affordable housing), ESG (homelessness) or HOPWA (special needs). These funds will be used for alternative grant activities and partnerships that meet the community development needs of eligible municipalities. Local Priority projects could include historic preservation, innovation, energy conservation, parks, and trails/greenways. New or expanded public service activities are also eligible. Projects should leverage other funding or include local funding; impact identified needs and demonstrate strong community support while meeting a National Objective and all other requirements. 

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.

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 Enrichment Grants

Outcome and Priorities

This program is designed to fund public facilities, services and other activities that strengthen existing communities and support a high quality of life within the following state priority areas:

• Economic competitiveness and resiliency
• Education and workforce development
• Safe and healthy communities

Project investments should contribute to quality of life and the long-term vitality of communities. Activities must have the broad support of citizens and local businesses. Buildings and brownfield sites should be owned by the local government. Note that costs for operating or maintaining public facilities are not eligible for CDBG, so building projects must demonstrate financial viability. Equipment for public service activities must be for new or expanded services and generally associated with a significant capital investment in facilities. Only major pieces of equipment that have a durable life of five years will be considered for funding.

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.

The Duke Energy Foundation offers Local Impact Grants to enhance the quality of life in South Carolina. Grants up to $20,000 support initiatives in vibrant economies, climate resiliency, and opportunity and inclusion. Eligible organizations must serve communities powered by Duke Energy and meet specific tax-exempt criteria. The foundation prioritizes projects that promote environmental sustainability and community development, while emphasizing non-discrimination and measurable impact.

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.

GALLO Giving

GALLO is committed to making a difference in the communities where their employees live and work and is proud to support a variety of non-profit organizations. Because of the number of deserving requests received each year, donations are primarily directed toward the community where the corporate headquarters is located – Modesto, CA. Donations are also available for organizations in Fresno, Livingston, Napa, and Sonoma in California, as well as in Chester County, South Carolina, and Canandaigua, New York.

GALLO offers corporate donations to nonprofits that support Family Well-Being, the Arts, and Overall Community Health.  

In order to help as many organizations as possible, GALLO appreciates limiting your requests to one (1) donation per year. In an effort to manage their contributions in an equitable and efficient manner, all requests must be submitted via web form. 

Grant applications undergo a thorough evaluation process, which includes assessing the organization's reputation and its adherence to the eligibility criteria listed here. Applying does not ensure the receipt of funds. 

Generally, it is not GALLO’s practice to provide donations to private or public universities, or national disasters (some exceptions may apply).  

The Arras Foundation's Healthy Community Grant supports community nonprofits in Fort Lawn, Great Falls, and Lancaster County. The grant aims to promote healthier communities through collaboration and innovative solutions that leverage community assets. Interested applicants must complete pre-proposal steps, including workshops and exploratory meetings, before submitting their Letter of Inquiry. The Foundation invites eligible organizations to join their mission of fostering positive change and enhancing community well-being.

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