Best Dorchester County Grants for Nonprofits in South Carolina

The Donors Choose Teacher Mini Grants program offers financial support for innovative classroom projects initiated by teachers in selected South Carolina counties. These grants aim to encourage creative educational approaches and enhance learning experiences. Applications are processed through Donors Choose, a platform that facilitates community support for classrooms in need. This initiative not only addresses immediate educational requirements but also fosters long-term community engagement and empowerment.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

The Stanley B. Farbstein Grant Program, established by Mr. Farbstein’s estate in 2014, is an invitation-only initiative focused on preserving Jewish life and education in South Carolina's Beaufort, Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties. Each year, selected organizations can request funding up to $20,000. Since its inception, the program has allocated over $500,000, demonstrating a strong commitment to enhancing Jewish culture and supporting STEM education for youth.

The Healthy Harbors Fund, launched by Charleston Waterkeeper and the South Carolina Coastal Conservation League with support from Coastal Community Foundation, aims to enhance water quality in the Charleston Harbor area. The fund, bolstered by a $1 million settlement from a pollution lawsuit, will provide grants to local nonprofits focusing on critical issues such as plastics, bacteria, and climate resilience. This initiative encourages community engagement and aims to tackle pressing environmental challenges in the Lowcountry.

The Northern Lowcountry Grants: Blackbaud Fund offers annual grants up to $5,000 for nonprofit organizations in Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties. Focused on supporting special needs youth and education for underserved youth, this fund encourages nonprofits that are 501(c)(3) compliant and do not engage in political lobbying. Organizations must not have received more than $5,000 in the previous grant cycle to be eligible.

The Northern Lowcountry Grants: Lowcountry Unity Fund, established by the Coastal Community Foundation, aims to address systemic racism and economic inequality in Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester counties. Following the tragic 2015 attack on Emanuel A.M.E. Church, the fund provides mini-grants up to $5,000 to nonprofits promoting collaborative solutions. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities and focus on partnerships that strengthen community resilience against discrimination.

The REALTORS Housing Opportunities Fund Grant, initiated by the Charleston Trident Association of Realtors in 2003, aims to support affordable housing projects in Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties. With over $1 million invested, the grant prioritizes nonprofits focused on education, development, or repair of affordable housing. Interested organizations must register to apply, allowing two business days for processing. This competitive funding opportunity promotes community development and addresses housing needs.

The Art of Community: Rural SC Grants, offered by the South Carolina Arts Commission, aims to enhance community access to the arts in rural areas. By supporting arts-based projects, this grant encourages public engagement and collaboration among local residents. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, colleges, and government entities. Priority is given to projects that develop artistic skills and foster creativity, addressing specific challenges faced by rural communities in South Carolina.

The Janosik Family Scholarship, awarded by the Delaware Community Foundation, offers a one-time financial assistance of $2,000 for graduating seniors from specific Eastern Shore High Schools. This program emphasizes citizenship qualities, work ethic, and community service as key selection criteria. In 2024-2025, the foundation distributed a record-breaking $850,000 in scholarships to support students pursuing undergraduate degrees, promoting educational opportunities and equity across Delaware.

Amanda’s Scholarship Fund, established in memory of Amanda Welling Dykes, supports students from Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties. Funded through the Coastal Community Foundation, it honors Amanda’s love for learning and character. The foundation invests in community needs, promoting equity and opportunity through scholarships and grants, while addressing critical challenges like education access. This initiative reflects a commitment to nurturing the potential of young learners in South Carolina.

The CRAN Charleston Scholarship Endowment, established by the Coastal Community Foundation, supports high school seniors from Berkeley, Charleston, or Dorchester County pursuing undergraduate degrees in architecture. This initiative not only invests in individual education but also contributes to the development of vibrant communities by addressing local needs and fostering opportunities for students. With a commitment to equity and well-being, the fund exemplifies the foundation's dedication to creating pathways for future generations.

The Decker Scholarship, established by the Coastal Community Foundation of South Carolina, aims to provide higher education funding for students in Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties. This initiative is part of a larger commitment to fostering equity and opportunity within the community. By leveraging endowment funds, the foundation addresses local needs while empowering students to pursue their academic goals. This scholarship reflects a dedication to supporting the educational aspirations of future leaders in the region.

The Donald C. and Johanna Miller Scholarship Endowment, established in 2019 by Don and Jo Miller, supports high school seniors residing in Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester Counties. This scholarship is part of the Coastal Community Foundation's mission to create equitable opportunities for students. By leveraging community resources, the foundation aims to empower local youth to achieve their educational goals, ultimately fostering vibrant communities along South Carolina's coast.

The Gadsden Family Fund, established in 1983, supports residents of Berkeley and Dorchester Counties in South Carolina by providing scholarships for education at Winthrop and Clemson Universities. Managed by the Coastal Community Foundation, the fund exemplifies community commitment, addressing pressing needs through strategic grantmaking and fostering local initiatives. This initiative reflects a dedication to equity and opportunity, ensuring that deserving students can pursue their academic goals and contribute positively to their communities.

The Hebrew Orphan Society N. Edgar Miles, M.D. Scholarship, established by Doctor Miles in 1995, supports graduating high school seniors in Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester counties with financial need. The scholarship is designed for students in the top 25% of their class with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Multiple renewable awards are available, reflecting the commitment to fostering educational opportunities and addressing community needs in South Carolina.

The J. C. and Alberta Long Fund, established by the Long family, supports high school seniors from Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties with scholarships. This fund honors the legacy of Mr. J.C. Long and Mrs. Alberta Long, aiming to empower youth in their educational pursuits while fostering community growth. With a commitment to addressing local needs, the Coastal Community Foundation ensures that qualified applicants receive financial assistance to achieve their academic goals, contributing to a brighter future for the region.

The Kylie Erin Gillette Scholarship Fund, established in 2016, honors the spirit of Kylie Gillette by providing annual scholarships to students from Berkeley, Charleston, or Dorchester counties. This initiative, supported by the Coastal Community Foundation of South Carolina, aims to empower local youth and foster educational opportunities. By addressing community needs and investing in the future, this fund reflects a commitment to building equity and opportunity in the region.

The Leah Read and Seymour I. Barkowitz Scholarship Fund, established in 1988, supports students from Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties pursuing a four-year degree at the College of Charleston. This annual scholarship, funded by the Coastal Community Foundation of South Carolina, aims to empower local students by providing financial assistance for their educational aspirations. The foundation’s commitment to community well-being and educational equity is exemplified through this targeted funding initiative.

The Rufus C. Barkley, Jr. Leadership Scholarship Fund, established in 2000, supports students from Charleston, Berkeley, Dorchester, or Colleton counties. This scholarship prioritizes academic merit and character, considering financial need. Applicants should demonstrate well-rounded interests and a commitment to helping others. One renewable award will be granted for up to four years of college. The fund reflects the Coastal Community Foundation's mission to enhance equity and opportunity in local communities.

The UPLIFT Scholarship, established by East Cooper Medical Center in 2020, supports students from Berkeley, Charleston, or Dorchester Counties maintaining a GPA of 2.5 or higher. This initiative, part of the Coastal Community Foundation's mission, aims to enhance equity and opportunity in the community. Preference is given to applicants with a relative employed by ECMC or its parent company, Tenet Healthcare, ensuring that local families benefit from this educational support.

The Warren O. Pinckney Scholarship Fund, established in 1973, provides essential financial support to students from Berkeley, Charleston, or Dorchester counties pursuing higher education. Managed by the Coastal Community Foundation, this fund addresses the financial needs of local students, ensuring they have the opportunity to achieve their educational goals. With a legacy of impactful scholarships, the fund continues to empower future leaders in the community.

The Wofford College Fund, established by the Samuel Freeman Charitable Trust, aims to support high school seniors from Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties pursuing a four-year degree at Wofford College. This initiative is part of the Coastal Community Foundation's broader mission to address community needs through strategic investments and grantmaking, fostering equity and opportunity for all residents in South Carolina's coastal region.

Employees Community Fund (ECF) of The Boeing CompanyOne of the largest employee-managed funds of its kind in the world, the Employees Community Fund (ECF) of The Boeing Company has been empowering employees to make a greater impact by pooling their tax-deductible donations for more than 60 years. Employee-led grantmaking committees at 20 Boeing sites- provide combined employee donations to nonprofits in their communities through ECF grants.Charitable or educational organizations can apply for grants from the Employees Community Fund (ECF) of The Boeing Company.South Carolina ChapterThe Employees Community Fund of Boeing (ECF) is a unique employee managed giving program that allows employees to make a positive difference in the communities where they live and work. ECF is an employee run non-profit managed by chapter Grantmaking committees (CGC) and governance board with each chapter having separate funding priorities and focus areas depending on local needs.ECF Focus The South Carolina ECF Chapter Grantmaking committee awards grants to non-profits that align to the following five focus areas: Arts & Culture, Civic, Education, Environment and Health & Human Services.Grants must support funding in Berkeley, Charleston or Dorchester counties, align to the ECF focus areas and all nonprofits who previously received grant awards must submit an impact report with the grant request that describes the progress made towards planned outcomes along with the tangible benefits to the community.

The Northern Lowcountry Grants, specifically the Dorchester County Fund, is managed by the Coastal Community Foundation of South Carolina. Established in 2010, this fund aims to improve the quality of life for residents of Dorchester County by providing grants to various organizations. Eligible applicants include nonprofits dedicated to serving this community, and applications for general operational support are welcomed. The foundation is committed to fostering vibrant communities through strategic funding.

The Northern Lowcountry Grants - HOME Community Fund is a competitive grant program designed to support organizations in Berkeley, Charleston, Dorchester, and Georgetown counties. Created by Home Telecom in 2002, the fund encourages applications for general operating support from nonprofits in these areas. An advisory committee, led by Home Telecom employees, reviews applications to make award selections. The next application deadline is June 1 or the following business day.

The Northern Lowcountry Grants, offered by the Coastal Community Foundation, support nonprofits in Berkeley, Charleston, Dorchester, and Georgetown counties. Grants up to $15,000 are available for projects focusing on arts, hospice care, and Alzheimer's-related disorders. For other initiatives, applicants may request up to $10,000. Established in 1974, the foundation aims to enhance community vibrancy by addressing regional challenges and promoting resource collaboration.