Best Water Grants in South Carolina

South Carolina agricultural producers, forest landowners, Tribes, and water management entities seeking to improve water quality and conserve water resources can access funding through USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service’s Environmental Quality Incentives Program. EQIP provides technical and financial assistance for on-farm conservation practices that enhance soil health, reduce pollution, and protect freshwater and other natural resources on working lands.

South Carolina organizations managing watershed-based water projects can access funding through the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services to implement best management practices that reduce nonpoint source pollution. Projects must follow an SCDES-approved watershed plan meeting EPA’s nine elements, with at least 75% of federal funds for on-the-ground BMPs and a 40% non-federal match.

State and local governments, private nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes in rural South Carolina can obtain funding for water and waste infrastructure, including drinking water, sewer, solid waste, and stormwater systems. USDA Rural Development also supports related costs like land, permits, engineering, and start-up operations for eligible projects in communities of 10,000 or fewer residents.

South Carolina agricultural and forest producers seeking support for water resource management and broader environmental stewardship can receive financial and technical assistance to enhance conservation on working lands. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service offers multi-year CSP contracts with annual payments of more than US $4,000 to improve soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat across entire operations.

South Carolina water and watershed organizations can access funding through the Laird Norton Family Foundation for freshwater conservation and water resource management efforts. U.S.-based nonprofits working on watershed stewardship, environmental stewardship, and long-term social and ecological resilience may be eligible, with current watershed priorities in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and select Western U.S. locations.

Roy A. Hunt Foundation provides South Carolina water and environmental organizations with US $25,000 - US $75,000 for multi-state or national projects improving freshwater, coastal, and nearby oceanic water quality. Eligible U.S.-based initiatives may include applied research, education and outreach, project management, and policy-oriented innovations that address clean water, pollution, and broader environmental systems.

U.S. nonprofit organizations working on land, water, and climate-related conservation, including freshwater conservation and water resource management in South Carolina, can apply for Doris Duke Foundation’s Environment Program funding; awards US $100,000 - US $1,000,000 for large-scale conservation, natural climate solutions, and equity-focused environmental initiatives. Projects must be submitted via letter of inquiry.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations across the U.S., including South Carolina, can seek $500 to $5,000 for water stewardship projects such as freshwater conservation, watershed protection, and climate-resilient water management. Focused on environmental stewardship, Bell's Brewery invites grassroots projects that strengthen ecosystem health, protect water resources for public health, and support frontline communities facing climate-related water risks.

Nonprofit organizations and public institutions working on freshwater conservation and water resource management in South Carolina can access funding through the Biophilia Foundation, which focuses its giving on U.S. projects. Grants from Biophilia Foundation help support ecosystem restoration, private land conservation, and restorative economies, with typical first-time awards ranging from US $5,000 - US $25,000.

Individuals conducting innovative water quality and water environment research with practical applications in South Carolina can receive support to advance their work. With a mission to advance applied water research, Water Research Foundation provides a grant of up to US $100,000, performed in conjunction with a U.S.-based firm, university, or organization.

Undergraduate students interested in marine, coastal, estuarine, or water resource issues in South Carolina and beyond can access funding through the Doyle Undergraduate Fellowship, earning up to US $5,000 for a 10-week summer placement. Fellows work on fisheries, aquaculture, coastal ecosystems, and water resource management projects with mentoring and professional development.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and eligible schools working on environmental sustainability or water-focused projects in South Carolina can apply for grants supporting clean water, land, air, and biodiversity. Grants from Westinghouse help fund programs that preserve or restore water resources, enhance community safety, and promote STEM education within 50 miles of a Westinghouse site.

Nonprofits, local governments, Tribal and religious organizations in South Carolina working on freshwater conservation, water resource management, or basic health and human needs can apply for the Doree Taylor Charitable Foundation’s grants. Funding may support programs addressing clean water access, environmental stewardship, or health services for underserved communities, with a broader focus on organizations across Maine and occasionally nationwide.

Freshwater science researchers and professionals working on conservation, water resource management, or related ecology fields in South Carolina can apply for Society for Freshwater Science Fellows recognition, which includes US $2,000 in support. This international program honors sustained excellence in freshwater research, policy, or management, with nominations submitted by SFS members.

South Carolina organizations working on freshwater conservation and water resource management can access funding through USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service for large-scale conservation partnerships. Eligible partners propose Regional Conservation Partnership Program projects that address on-farm, watershed, or regional natural resource concerns, with awards from US $250,000 - US $10,000,000 supporting both partner activities and participating producers.

Organizations or individuals engaged in freshwater conservation and lake management work in South Carolina may be eligible for recognition through the Secchi Disk Award, which honors significant contributions to the North American Lake Management Society’s goals. Grants from North American Lake Management Society help South Carolina water resource management advocates gain national visibility for their lake and watershed stewardship efforts.

Corporations engaged in freshwater conservation and water resource management in South Carolina can be nominated for this annual achievement award recognizing major contributions to lake and watershed management. The North American Lake Management Society honors companies that advance information exchange, public awareness, professional practice, and research supporting healthy lake and reservoir ecosystems across North America.

The HDR One Water Institute Scholarship, offered by the American Water Works Association, provides $10,000 in funding to support graduate students pursuing degrees that will lead to careers as consultants in the water industry. This initiative highlights the importance of investing in future water professionals and fostering innovative research to address pressing water challenges.

The AWWA Scholarship Program, specifically the Mueller HBCU Scholarship, supports undergraduate students from historically black colleges and universities pursuing careers in the water sector. Offered by the American Water Works Association (AWWA), this scholarship recognizes the vital role of future professionals in addressing water industry challenges. AWWA aims to invest in students who will contribute to sustainable water management and innovation within their communities.

The SEARCH Grant provides essential support for very small, financially distressed rural communities by funding predevelopment feasibility studies and technical assistance for water and waste disposal projects. Eligible applicants include state and local governments, nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes. Funds can be used for feasibility studies, design analysis, and technical help in securing financial assistance, ensuring improvements in rural infrastructure and community health.

The AWWA Jacobs Holly A. Cornell Scholarship, established in 1990, supports graduate students pursuing water supply and treatment studies. Sponsored by Jacobs/CH2M, this $10,000 scholarship is aimed at first-generation college graduates or those who have faced economic disadvantages and significant educational barriers. AWWA, the largest organization of water supply professionals, emphasizes the importance of investing in the future of the water industry through such scholarships.

The AWWA Scholarship Program, specifically the Woodard & Curran Scholarship, offers a $5,000 merit-based award annually to undergraduate or graduate students focused on water-related fields. This initiative aims to support historically marginalized communities, including women and BIPOC students, promoting equity in the water industry. With clean water being essential for community health, this scholarship reflects AWWA's commitment to nurturing the next generation of water professionals.

The AWWA Scholarships Program, led by the American Water Works Association, aims to support the future of the water industry by investing in students. The Mueller Water Products Continuing Education Scholarship awards $5,000 to an undergraduate student employed by a water utility, emphasizing the importance of practical experience in education. This scholarship not only aids financial needs but also encourages students to pursue careers in water supply, fostering growth in this vital sector.

The USDA Rural Development program provides essential loans and grants to improve water and waste disposal services in low-income communities, specifically targeting Colonias recognized before 1989. This initiative aims to alleviate health risks associated with inadequate access to safe drinking water and waste management. Eligible applicants include federally-recognized tribes and local governments, with funds supporting the construction of vital infrastructure to ensure community health and sustainability.

Federally recognized Tribes, eligible governments, and nonprofits in South Carolina can seek funding to build basic drinking water, wastewater, and storm-water systems in low-income Tribal communities. Focused on water and public health, USDA Rural Development supports rural areas where at least half of residents are Tribal members facing significant health risks.

Eligible not-for-profit organizations dedicated to supporting, conserving, or promoting wild waterfowl can apply for up to US $500,000 to develop waterfowl propagation areas in Manitoba and Saskatchewan within the Mississippi Flyway. Canada Department of Natural Resources funds projects that preserve, restore, and manage high-quality breeding habitat, which may interest South Carolina water resource and wetland conservation groups.

The Raftelis Leadership Scholarship, offered by the American Water Works Association, supports undergraduate and graduate students pursuing a consulting career in water utilities. With a value of $5,000, this scholarship aims to foster relationships with diverse, promising students who demonstrate leadership and strong academic performance. Applicants from various academic backgrounds, including business and finance, are encouraged to apply, emphasizing initiative and a desire to contribute positively to the community.