Best Hampton County Grants for Nonprofits in South Carolina

The J. Larry Landers Student Research Award, offered by the Gopher Tortoise Council, provides funding for undergraduate and graduate students conducting research on gopher tortoise biology or upland habitat conservation. With an average award of $1,000, applicants must submit a four-page proposal, including project details and a budget. This grant aims to support original student-led research within the southeastern U.S., where the gopher tortoise is native, thus promoting vital ecological studies.

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 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 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 Dan D. Nale Engineering Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry in 2019, supports academic excellence among dependents of Gulfstream Aerospace employees. Eligible students must pursue a Bachelor of Science in Engineering with a GPA of 2.5 or higher, focusing on Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, or Aerospace disciplines. Preference is given to applicants attending the Citadel or those who have participated in Gulfstream co-op or internship programs.

The Fred and Susan Breidenbach Scholarship, funded by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, offers financial support to graduating high school seniors or undergraduate students who are dependents of Gulfstream Aerospace employees. Established to recognize academic excellence, this scholarship program reflects the Breidenbachs' commitment to education and their appreciation for the dedication of Gulfstream employees during challenging times. Since 1995, it has provided essential assistance to those pursuing higher education, helping to alleviate tuition costs.

The Gulfstream Goldie Glenn Scholarship, funded by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, honors academic excellence among high school seniors who are dependents of Gulfstream employees. Established to pay tribute to Albert H. "Goldie" Glenn, a leader in the aircraft industry, this scholarship aims to alleviate tuition costs for students with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Since its inception, it has supported the educational aspirations of local students, furthering their opportunities in higher education.

The Ira P. Berman Gulfstream Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, supports the educational goals of children and dependents of Gulfstream employees. It honors Ira P. Berman, a distinguished leader in Gulfstream Aerospace. Eligible applicants include high school seniors and full-time college students enrolled in accredited institutions. The scholarship emphasizes academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and financial need, providing crucial assistance to those looking to reduce tuition costs without relying on student loans.

The Faith Jefferson Hohloch Nursing Scholarship supports students from Berkeley, Charleston, or Dorchester counties pursuing a nursing degree at any accredited institution. Established in 1999 by Dr. Hohloch and managed by the Coastal Community Foundation of SC, this scholarship aims to alleviate financial barriers for those accepted into 2-year or 4-year programs. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and residency within the foundation's service area, with a commitment to obtaining a baccalaureate or higher degree in nursing.

The Winthrop Family Fund Grant, hosted by the Coastal Community Foundation of South Carolina, offers financial support to nonprofit organizations in Allendale and Hampton counties. Applications are accepted through an online portal, with deadlines set for February 1st each year. This grant prioritizes initiatives in education, health, and environmental conservation, empowering local nonprofits to address diverse charitable needs within their communities.

The Arts Industry Operating Support grants provide two years of unrestricted funding to strengthen small arts organizations in South Carolina. This support is aimed at enhancing their operational capacity to deliver ongoing arts experiences and services to communities. Eligible organizations must have a primary mission focused on the arts and demonstrate a commitment to providing quality programming. A 1:1 cash match is required, ensuring a sustainable investment in the arts sector.

The Donna J. Heinrich Environmental Education Grant, established by the Gopher Tortoise Council, aims to support educators and organizations in creating projects focused on the gopher tortoise and its habitat. This grant honors Donna June Heinrich, a dedicated environmental educator committed to wildlife conservation. By fostering educational initiatives, the grant seeks to enhance public understanding and appreciation of the gopher tortoise and promote its conservation across the southeastern United States.

The CF Lowcountry Opportunity Grant provides funding up to $10,000 to nonprofit organizations in Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, and Jasper counties. These grants aim to support new initiatives, enhance existing programs, or invest in critical capital projects. To be eligible, organizations must have 501(c)(3) status, serve local communities, and attend a Grants Information Session within a year of applying. Preference is given to projects benefiting marginalized groups.

The Longleaf Landscape Stewardship Fund Grant, managed by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), provides funding for projects aimed at restoring and conserving longleaf pine and bottomland hardwood forests. With approximately $30 million available for 2024, grants range from $250,000 to $3,000,000. This initiative, supported by various federal and private entities, emphasizes the importance of ecological preservation and sustainable land management practices.

The Reverend Pinckney College Readiness Program assists high school students in Beaufort, Charleston, Colleton, Hampton, and Jasper counties with college preparation. This 18-month program supports first-generation college students and those with financial needs, ensuring they have the resources to navigate the college application process. Participants receive personalized coaching on standardized tests, financial aid, and scholarship applications, promoting academic success and civic engagement. Named after Rev. Clementa Pinckney, the program fosters ambition and mentorship among its students.

The Reverend Pinckney Scholarship Program, established by the Coastal Community Foundation, aims to support first-generation college students from Beaufort, Charleston, Colleton, Hampton, and Jasper counties. With scholarships of up to $10,000, scholars receive mentoring, professional training, and access to mental health resources. This initiative honors Rev. Clementa Pinckney's legacy, promoting education and community leadership while preparing students for successful college experiences and careers. Applications are accepted in the second semester of the senior year.

The Community Foundation of the Lowcountry offers Organizational Development Grants aimed at enhancing the capacity of nonprofits in Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, and Jasper Counties. Grants up to $5,000 cover 70% of a consultant's fees, facilitating strategic planning, governance training, and other capacity-building initiatives. Organizations must meet specific eligibility criteria, including nonprofit status and attendance at an information session. These grants foster sustainability and operational effectiveness within the nonprofit sector.

The Lowcountry Land Conservation Grant, offered by the Gaylord & Dorothy Donnelley Foundation, focuses on enhancing land conservation efforts in the Lowcountry region through a climate resiliency, diversity, equity, and inclusion lens. This grant supports non-profit organizations in their general operations and projects aimed at protecting natural and working lands, fostering collaboration among diverse communities, and advocating for sustainable policies. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations with a connection to land conservation.

The Beaufort Fund, established by the Coastal Community Foundation in 1998, supports nonprofits in Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, and Jasper counties. With over $11 million distributed, it offers three grant categories: Genesis Grants for strategic growth, Operational Grants for established nonprofits, and First-Time Grants for new applicants. Each category allows organizations to request specific funding amounts based on their needs, fostering community engagement and support.

The South Carolina Nurse Retention Initiative aims to retain skilled nursing professionals in Beaufort, Hampton, and Jasper Counties. By offering awards to recent Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) graduates who commit to practicing in primary healthcare within these regions, the initiative addresses the critical need for nursing talent. This program not only supports new graduates but also ensures that local communities benefit from a stable healthcare workforce.

Broadening Narratives

Broadening Narratives supports diverse stories and collections that expand our understanding of who we are. ​

Our Vision for Broadening Narratives

We work to ensure that those whose stories are being told through collections are included in the decisions about how those stories are told. We seek to broaden the kinds of narratives being told, particularly stories that have never been told, or have been told incompletely or inaccurately.  

This includes stories from culturally specific communities including people of color, LGBTQ+ perspectives, working-class experiences, and small community stories.

We support collections that tell stories that have not been told, have been told incompletely, or have been told inaccurately. We require that those whose stories are being told be included in the decision-making process.

What is broadening narratives?

Why collections? And what do you mean by “Broadening Narratives”? What drove this change in strategy and approach to your collections work? ​

Read this answer and more here.

The Sparklight/Cable One Charitable Giving Fund supports local nonprofits and organizations focused on education, food insecurity, and community development. They prioritize impactful partnerships that strengthen communities. The fund welcomes various funding requests, including special projects and capital campaigns, while adhering to specific eligibility requirements such as tax-exempt status. However, they do not fund basic operating expenses, loans, or religious organizations for general support, ensuring that their contributions foster meaningful community growth.

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.

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.

The Lowcountry Artistic Vitality Grant, offered by the Gaylord & Dorothy Donnelley Foundation, aims to support a diverse range of arts organizations within the Lowcountry. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) public charities that demonstrate artistic vitality and have completed at least one full fiscal year of operations. Grants range from $5,000 to $25,000, emphasizing unrestricted general operations funding that allows organizations to address their most pressing 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

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 PNC Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals in local communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Their focus includes promoting educational opportunities, particularly for early childhood education, and supporting economic development initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that benefit low- to moderate-income families and enhance community growth. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster sustainability and diversity, ensuring a lasting impact on the communities they serve.