Best Community and School Garden Grants in South Carolina

With a mission to strengthen South Carolina’s specialty crop industry, South Carolina Department of Agriculture provides South Carolina horticulture and agricultural crop organizations with project funding. Producer, industry, and community-based groups can apply for projects that enhance specialty crop competitiveness and benefit the broader specialty crop sector rather than a single entity.

South Carolina schools and 501(c)(3) nonprofits running on-campus garden or classroom cooking programs can receive up to US $5,000 for program operations, supplies, and educator stipends. Focused on horticulture and gardening, Sprouts Healthy Communities Foundation supports school-based nutrition and garden education in communities where Sprouts Farmers Market operates stores.

The Sidney B. Meadows Scholarship, established in 1989, offers financial support to students pursuing degrees in horticulture across 16 southeastern states. Administered by the Sidney B. Meadows Scholarship Endowment Fund, this scholarship honors the legacy of Sidney B. Meadows, a dedicated advocate for education in the horticultural industry. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria related to academic standing and residency, with preference given to those intending to work in the field after graduation.

Nonprofit organizations with organic community or school gardens that feed low-income communities in South Carolina can apply for funding to support urban organic agriculture projects. Nature's Path Organic provides U.S. and Canadian gardens with US $3,000 each to expand food access, especially for underserved or underrepresented communities using organic, non-GMO practices.

Eligible 501(c) or 170(c) organizations in South Carolina working in economic and community development, education, financial wellness, arts and culture, veterans, or disability services can benefit from Regions Bank’s employee Matching Gifts Program. Community and school garden projects that fit these missions and are supported by Regions associates may receive matched donations to expand their work.

Nonprofit 501(c) or 170(c) organizations in South Carolina working on community development, education, financial wellness, arts, veterans, disabilities, or related causes can receive matching donations through Regions Bank’s recent retirees program. Regions will match eligible gifts up to US $1,000 per retiree, which may help sustain community and school garden or similar local initiatives.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

South Carolina horticulture and gardening organizations, schools, school districts, Tribes, and 501(c)(3) nonprofits can access funding through Newmans Own Foundation’s Hunger to Health Collaboratory Prizes for Innovation. U.S. applicants may receive up to US $100,000 for youth-focused food justice, nutrition education, school garden, and Indigenous food projects that improve kids’ access to healthy, culturally relevant foods.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and government entities working on horticulture, gardening, and public green spaces in the U.S., including South Carolina, can access funding via the Garden Club of Houston. Grants support community and school gardens, public parks, nature centers, educational events, publications, scholarships, and related conservation and civic improvement projects.

Schools and education organizations in South Carolina can use this program to install hydroponic classroom gardens that support STEM, STEAM, and nutrition education. Rise Gardens provides equipment and resources to help educators teach NGSS-aligned science, entrepreneurship, and community-building through hands-on horticulture and gardening projects.

Students in horticulture or floriculture programs planning careers in commercial cut flower production, including those in South Carolina, can receive US $1,000 scholarships for education-related costs. The Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers also provides a one-year membership, which may benefit students involved with community or school garden projects focused on cut flowers.

Universities, colleges, and federal research institutions conducting floriculture and horticulture-related projects in South Carolina can access funding through the Fred C. Gloeckner Foundation Research Fund, administered by American Floral Endowment. Grants support research and education in floriculture and allied fields, including plant pathology, plant physiology, entomology, molecular biology, and agricultural economics, with annual renewal possible.

South Carolina school garden and horticulture programs with 3rd grade classes can access funding through the Bonnie Plants Foundation’s 3rd Grade Cabbage Program, which provides free cabbage plants and a chance at US $1,000 in in-kind support. Teachers, parents, and administrators may enroll eligible classes to engage youth in hands-on vegetable gardening.

Nonprofit and other tax-exempt organizations planning to turn vacant lots into gardens can apply for KidsGardening’s Lots of Compassion Grant, awarding US $20,000 to each of 10 projects. Focused on horticulture and gardening, this national program includes South Carolina groups serving under-resourced communities with at least fifteen garden participants.

Nonprofits and eligible public entities serving Aiken and Edgefield counties in South Carolina can seek funding for horticulture and gardening projects, including community and school gardens. Focused on community needs, the Community Foundation for the Central Savannah River Area also supports related programs in arts, education, health, and human services, with grants up to US $15,000.

Nonprofit floral industry organizations in South Carolina and nationwide can apply for the Meinders Retail Florist Education Grant Fund to support retail floral education events. Administered by American Floral Endowment, this program offers grants or scholarships to reduce or waive registration fees for educational floriculture and gardening industry gatherings.

South Carolina horticulture and gardening nonprofits with local community projects can access funding through Kubota for up to US $50,000 in combined cash and equipment support. 501(c)(3) organizations planning community gardens, parks, or public green spaces may be eligible, with 10 grants awarded nationally through the Hometown Proud Grant Program.

Academic, governmental, industry, and 501(c)(3) researchers working on horticulture and gardening projects in South Carolina can seek funding to support one-year research benefiting specialty cut flower growers. The Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers Research Foundation will award one or more grants totaling US $30,000, with any research topic considered and collaboration with growers encouraged.

The American Floral Endowment (AFE) offers educational grants aimed at enhancing the floriculture industry through innovative programs. With over $3 million funded since its inception, AFE supports initiatives targeting young people and addressing industry challenges. Grants range from $500 to $10,000 annually, encouraging multi-year projects that benefit broad geographical areas. Eligible applicants include community organizations focused on floriculture education within the U.S. AFE prioritizes programs with national scope and significant educational impact.

The ENF Community Investments Program - Beacon Grants offers a unique opportunity for Elks Lodges to initiate and lead charitable projects in their local communities. This program encourages Lodges to develop sustainable initiatives, allowing them to address community needs effectively. By fostering collaboration and providing resources, the Beacon Grants enhance the quality of life for residents, including veterans and families. In 2025-26, all Lodges will have the chance to participate, promoting a culture of giving back.

The Schilling Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides six $3,000 scholarships to graduating high school seniors from select schools. Renewable for up to three years, recipients must maintain a 3.0 GPA, enroll in 12 credit hours, and major in Agriculture. An essay submission is required, and applicants must demonstrate financial need by submitting their FAFSA-SAI. This scholarship aims to support students pursuing degrees in various Agriculture fields.

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Harry Emley and Mary Joslin Bennett Scholarship

Selection based upon:

• Academic achievement, financial need, community and school service, and recommendations.

Awards

• One $500 scholarship

The Fisher Family Lost Acres Scholarship Fund, administered by the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, provides financial assistance to students pursuing agriculture, horticulture, or related majors. Eligible applicants include undergraduate and graduate students planning to enroll in accredited post-secondary institutions in the U.S. Scholarships can reach up to $3,000 and may affect other financial aid. Students are encouraged to check with college financial aid offices for guidance on potential implications.

The Diana and Leon Feffer Scholarship Fund, administered by the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, provides financial support to residents of Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire Counties. Eligible students include undergraduates and graduates attending accredited institutions in the U.S. Students can receive up to $3,000, which may affect financial aid. Scholarships can cover tuition and other educational costs, and recipients should confirm tax implications with their colleges or tax advisors.

About

Paul Newman was born and raised in Ohio by parents who owned a successful sporting goods store. He enlisted in the Navy and completed his military service as a radioman/gunner in the Pacific during World War II. Seeing his father’s business ethic during the Great Depression and experiencing the war fueled his desire to help others in need.

In 1958, Paul made his acting debut on Broadway in “Picnic,” where he also met his future wife, Joanne Woodward. Paul started a successful race car driving career inspired by training for the film Winning. He went on to win second place in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the world’s oldest endurance race event. After years of acting and being recognized for his achievements on screen and stage, he received many accolades including an Oscar for Best Actor in The Color of Money.

Paul used his fame for good. He was dedicated to civil rights–attending the March on Washington in August 1963–women’s rights, and gay rights. He used his platform to advocate for equal pay for his female co-stars. He was a vocal political advocate committed to ending the nuclear arms race and determined to elect opponents of war and militarism. President Jimmy Carter appointed him to a United Nations General Assembly session on nuclear disarmament.

In 1982, Paul Newman and his friend Hotch founded a food company on a bit of a lark. They turned a profit selling salad dressing that first year, and did something truly radical when they decided to “give it all away” to good causes.

Paul established Newman’s Own Foundation to ensure the continuation of his philanthropic legacy after his passing. 40+ years since its founding, his first of its kind food company and its innovative business model are still going strong.

Garden Grants

Through Whole Foods Market’s Garden Grant program, schools turn outdoor spaces into powerful hands-on learning gardens that connect kids with food, spark their curiosity and support classroom curriculum.

Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors. Applications are accepted from mid-November until mid-March. Scholarship award recipients will be announced at the high school awards ceremony. 

Van Cott Family Memorial Scholarship

Established in memory of Kermit Van Cott and his son Forrest to provide tuition assistance to a graduating Senior from one of the High Schools in Susquehanna County, with priority given to Blue Ridge, who will major in Landscape Architecture, Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Horticulture, Botany, Forestry, or Agriculture and who will matriculate at college or a post-secondary degree program.