Best Grants for Education Nonprofits in South Carolina

The Area Development Grant Program, managed by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), supports economic growth in Appalachia through investments in critical infrastructure and workforce development. Targeting 423 counties across 13 states, the program encourages local communities to collaborate with state governments to identify and implement impactful projects. Key focus areas include enhancing utilities, promoting entrepreneurship, and strengthening local leadership. This initiative aims to uplift the 26 million residents of Appalachia, fostering sustainable economic opportunities.

The Clancy & Theys 1949 Fund, managed by the Triangle Community Foundation, supports nonprofits in Central Florida, North Carolina, Upstate South Carolina, and Virginia. This donor-advised fund prioritizes initiatives in education, workforce development, youth programming, and community well-being, focusing on measurable impacts. The Foundation seeks to strengthen community ties and enhance quality of life by connecting donors with local organizations that address pressing needs. Both established partners and new applicants are encouraged to apply.

The Yawkey Foundation's Transformational Capital Grant provides significant funding, up to $5 million, for nonprofit organizations to enhance their mission delivery through the development of impactful physical spaces. The grants are highly competitive and require compelling proposals demonstrating project need, community support, and financial commitment. Organizations must align with the Foundation's priority Areas of Giving, primarily serving Eastern Massachusetts and Georgetown County, South Carolina. Review timeframe for proposals is approximately 12-18 months.

The Spartanburg County Foundation's Continuous Improvement Grant aims to enhance the lives of Spartanburg County residents by funding nonprofit organizations that focus on quality of life, educational achievement, and economic mobility. Grants of up to $35,000 are available to eligible 501(c)(3) organizations. The foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate alignment with its mission, utilize data-driven strategies, and foster community engagement, ensuring diverse populations receive necessary support and resources.

The Yawkey Foundation offers Program and Small Capital Grants to nonprofit organizations making meaningful impacts in Health Care, Education, Human Services, Youth and Amateur Athletics, Arts and Culture, and Conservation and Wildlife. Grants can be up to $100,000 and support projects aligned with the nonprofit’s mission. Organizations are encouraged to submit Initial Proposals during designated periods, demonstrating strong leadership and community impact, particularly in underserved regions of Eastern Massachusetts.

The Yawkey Foundation's Strategic Investment Grant supports nonprofit organizations aiming for strategic growth through board-approved plans. Grants, ranging from $250,000 to $1 million, may fund regional expansions, collaborative efforts among nonprofits, and organizational mergers. Initial Proposals are highly competitive and must demonstrate strong leadership, proven impact, and alignment with the Foundation's Areas of Giving. Review periods for proposals can take 6-12 months, during which feedback is not provided.

The Corporate Giving Program by the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation supports nonprofit organizations that enhance community welfare. Focus areas include agriculture, education, fighting hunger, and public safety. Eligible applicants must have IRS 501(c)(3) status and a Taxpayer Identification number. Requests are prioritized for programs directly benefiting communities near Perdue facilities across various states. The foundation emphasizes responsible stewardship and community engagement in all funding decisions.

The Corporate Giving Program by the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation focuses on supporting nonprofit organizations within specific states. They prioritize initiatives that enhance community welfare, especially in agriculture, education, health, and environmental sustainability. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status to apply, and preference is given to those involving Perdue associates. Ineligible requests include those from religious, political, or individual-focused groups. This program emphasizes broad community benefits over organizational affiliations.

The Jolley Foundation Grant offers up to $100,000 to charitable organizations that are 501(c)(3) exempt and based in South Carolina. This grant aims to address poverty and discrimination through systemic solutions, capacity-building for nonprofits, and collaborative efforts. Priority is given to projects in arts, education, health, and human services, particularly those benefiting residents of Greenville County. Applicants must demonstrate financial sustainability for their programs.

The Spartanburg County Foundation offers Nonprofit Effectiveness Grants of up to $10,000 to enhance the internal capacity of community-based organizations in Spartanburg County. These grants aim to strengthen governance, financial management, and overall organizational effectiveness. Eligible organizations must be recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving Spartanburg residents, demonstrating alignment with the Foundation's mission and measurable impact. The Foundation seeks to promote philanthropy and community engagement, ensuring that funds are utilized to benefit local residents directly.

The Community Foundation for the CSRA offers funding to support charitable organizations in Georgia and South Carolina. With a focus on arts, education, health, and services for people in need, the foundation encourages innovative proposals. Grants may reach up to $15,000, supporting impactful community initiatives. Organizations must demonstrate long-term benefits and meet specific eligibility criteria, ensuring funds are used effectively to enhance community welfare and quality of life for residents.

The Brown Family Foundation Grant aims to support small nonprofits in North and South Carolina, focusing on humanitarian efforts, education, and community improvement. With grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $50,000, the Foundation seeks to fund initiatives that demonstrate clear impact and sustainability. The Foundation prioritizes organizations that align with its mission and values, emphasizing collaboration and evidence-based practices. It does not fund individuals or certain types of organizations, ensuring that aid is directed effectively to those in need.

The Philip L. Van Every Foundation provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations in North and South Carolina, focusing on education, healthcare, human services, and the arts. With a commitment to strengthen communities and support fiscal responsibility, the foundation aims to enhance lives through meaningful projects. Organizations must demonstrate a track record of success to be eligible for funding, which is generally awarded for special projects and capital needs.

The Southern Circuit Screening Partner Grant invites nonprofit, educational, or governmental organizations in the South Arts region to host screenings of independent documentaries. This initiative promotes diverse filmmakers, including those from historically marginalized communities. Partners engage audiences through strategic marketing and provide logistical support for filmmakers. The program emphasizes collaboration during film selection and aims to foster meaningful conversations about the art of filmmaking while making the events accessible to all community members.

South Arts, Inc. is offering Accessibility Grants of up to $2,500 to nonprofit organizations in the Southeast to enhance accessibility in arts programs for individuals with disabilities. The grants aim to foster inclusivity by supporting projects that engage disabled artists and audiences. Organizations must be located within the South Arts Service region and focus on the arts. Priority will be given to new applicants and those serving BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities, with a commitment to rural areas.

The Baltimore Life Community Grants Program, established by the Baltimore Life Foundation, awards grants of up to $500 to nonprofit organizations in various states, including Maryland and Virginia. This initiative aims to enhance community quality of life through projects that focus on family safety and community enhancement. Eligible applicants must be IRS-certified 501(c)(3) organizations, with priority given to those with volunteer support. This program reflects Baltimore Life's commitment to corporate citizenship and community involvement.

The Aflac Charitable Fund Competitive Grant supports local nonprofit organizations in South Carolina, focusing on health and education. Priority is given to programs aiding pediatric cancer patients and their families, as well as life skills initiatives. Organizations must comply with state regulations and can only submit one application per cycle. Previous applicants can reapply in future cycles, but declined applications do not carry over automatically. This initiative is managed by the Central Carolina Community Foundation.

The Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation, established in 2001, has awarded over $17.5 million to combat hunger in its operating areas. This foundation focuses on supporting children at risk of hunger and enhancing the capacity of feeding agencies to provide nutritious meals. They also emphasize nutrition education to mitigate health risks associated with hunger. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits located within 20 miles of a Food Lion store, with applications accepted annually.

The American Honda Foundation provides programmatic support to nonprofit organizations and schools in the U.S., empowering impactful initiatives aligned with community needs. Funding opportunities are available through Honda corporate and Honda USA Foundation, focusing on projects that enhance education and community welfare. Eligible organizations must have nonprofit status or be recognized educational institutions. The application process opens each fall, with funding decisions announced the following spring, ensuring alignment with Honda's commitment to social responsibility.

The Programmatic Support - Education Pillar Award by Honda aims to enhance workforce readiness in the manufacturing sector. It supports nonprofit organizations and schools focused on hands-on programs in design, software/data analytics, and AI/machine learning. Eligible applicants must be US-based and have 501(c)(3) status. The initiative prioritizes projects that train individuals for manufacturing roles, develop technical skills, and introduce automation to prepare for evolving industry demands, ultimately fostering economic prosperity in local communities.

The Environment Pillar Award by Honda supports nonprofit organizations and schools in the U.S. focused on sustainability. Grants aim to reduce environmental impact through programs in decarbonization, clean energy, and efficient resource use. Eligible projects must align with Honda's mission and primarily benefit communities where Honda associates live and work. Organizations can apply for up to two grants, provided they meet specific eligibility criteria, including tax-exempt status under the IRS.

The Honda USA Foundation's Mobility Pillar Award aims to empower individuals with disabilities by funding programs that enhance access and mobility. The foundation supports nonprofit organizations and schools that provide therapeutic, adaptive, and comprehensive care programs, as well as mobility modifications and assistive technology. Applications are accepted from U.S.-based organizations with 501(c)(3) status or fiscal sponsors, ensuring that the joy of mobility is accessible to all.

The Summer Arts Education Project Grants, provided by the South Carolina Arts Commission, aim to enhance arts education for K-12 students during summer breaks in 2022 and 2023. Grants of up to $50,000 are available, encouraging collaborations between various organizations to expand access to arts education. Priority is given to projects that serve rural or high-poverty areas and address learning loss from COVID-19. Eligible applicants include universities, government units, and registered nonprofits.

The Porter Fleming Foundation, established in 1963, aims to enrich the Greater Augusta community through educational, artistic, and cultural initiatives. With no maximum requesting amount, the foundation supports local 501(c)(3) organizations that advance learning and cultural life in the region. While grants are available for innovative projects, they are not intended for usual operating expenses or expenses covered by governmental funding. The foundation encourages community engagement and philanthropy to enhance quality of life.

The Cherokee County Community Foundation Grant aims to inspire philanthropy and strengthen the local community by providing funding for projects that address critical needs in areas such as crime and safety, economic development, education, family and youth, and public health. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and educational institutions serving Cherokee County, SC. The Foundation prioritizes initiatives that create community gain and improve the quality of life for residents.

The BECU Foundation's People Helping People Awards honor exceptional nonprofit work in communities served by BECU. Each year, BECU members can nominate organizations for grants up to $50,000. Eligible nonprofits must be active 501(c)(3) organizations with a direct impact in Idaho, Oregon, South Carolina, or Washington. This initiative highlights the importance of community service and encourages members to recognize local heroes making a difference.

Enterprise Community Partners

Enterprise Community Partners is a national nonprofit that exists to make a good home possible for the millions of families without one. Home is where life happens, where plans are made, and futures begin. It is the foundation for dignity, health, education, wealth, and community. Yet rents keep going up, paychecks don’t keep pace, and good homes in strong neighborhoods are increasingly out of reach.

The system doesn’t work. It must be changed, and it must be changed by us.

Enterprise has the breadth, scale, and expertise to do it. We support community development organizations on the ground. We aggregate and invest billions to improve housing and strengthen communities across the U.S. We advance housing policy at every level of government. We build and manage communities ourselves. Everything we do is informed by the residents we serve.

Together with our partners, we focus on the greatest need — the massive shortage of affordable rental homes — to achieve three goals:

• Increase the supply of affordable homes
• Advance racial equity after decades of systematic racism in housing
• Support residents and strengthen communities to be resilient to the unpredictable, and make upward mobility possible

Since 1982, we have invested $92.0 billion and created 1.1 million homes across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. We do all this to make home and community places of pride, power, and belonging.

National Housing Innovation Grant Competition

Home is foundational. It’s where we plant roots, raise and care for our families, and build community bonds. Yet in every corner of the country, millions of people of all ages and backgrounds need a home they can afford.

Wells Fargo is meeting this moment with a powerful grant opportunity. Together with Enterprise, Wells Fargo has launched the third iteration of the Housing Affordability Breakthrough Challenge. The 2026 cycle of the housing innovation competition will identify and propel proven, ready-to-scale solutions that transform current practices and increase housing choice and access.

Eligible applicants will compete for five individual grants of $2 million to advance their innovation and drive meaningful, systems-level change in the housing and adjacent industries. Winners will gain access to mentorship and coaching from industry leaders and experts and join a powerful network of Breakthrough Challenge innovators.

Focus Areas

This third cycle of the Housing Affordability Breakthrough Challenge aims to meet the nation’s affordable housing challenges across all types of communities: Native, rural, suburban, tribal, and urban.

Proposals must encompass one or more of three focus areas:

• Design and Construction
• Finance
• Service Delivery and Programs

Applicants will be asked to show how their proof of concept or pilot program has achieved clear outcomes and success, and provide a clear pathway to expanding the innovation’s reach and impact

Round 1: Criteria and Scoring

Your innovation must meet the criteria below to advance to the official scoring stage.

Type of Community

Innovations can serve all types of communities:

• Rural
• Urban
• Suburban
• Tribal

Location

Priority scoring will be given to applications from entities that are based in – or whose innovations are designed for – one or more of these 28 states, plus D.C.:

• Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, Washington D.C.

Affordability

Innovations must serve residents at these income levels:

• Rental: 80% AMI or below
• Homeownership: 120% AMI or below
• Workforce housing: 120% AMI or below