Best Grants for Teachers Continuing Education in South Carolina

The Honda USA Foundation provides funding to support mobility initiatives that empower individuals, particularly those facing disabilities, by removing barriers and expanding opportunities. Focused on sustainable change in underserved communities, the Foundation encourages applications for programs in education, infrastructure, and technology that align with its commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Eligible organizations must be based in the U.S. with appropriate tax-exempt status and can apply for multiple funding opportunities while adhering to specific eligibility criteria.

South Arts Inc. is offering Literary Arts Grants to support writers, independent publishers, and literary organizations focusing on contemporary literature in the Southern U.S. Grants of up to $5,000 will fund projects in poetry, fiction, and other genres. Eligible applicants must be full-time residents of the South Arts region. The initiative aims to amplify the literary traditions of the American South, fostering creativity and community engagement through diverse literary projects.

The SPC Cares Foundation

The SPC Cares Foundation was established in 2024 as a way for SPC Credit Union to strategically support four key development issues identified within our community: Hunger, Housing, Employment, & Education. The Foundation supports our local communities through monetary donations, in-kind donation drives, and volunteerism.

SPC Scholarship Fund

SPC Scholarships are available to improve the lives of Members who want to further their education. Scholarship opportunities are available for high school students entering college, adults returning to college, and children of SPC CU employees and board members.

Applications are considered on both academic and needs-based criteria.

These funds are provided by SPC Credit Union in partnership with the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation.

The SPC Cares Foundation

The SPC Cares Foundation was established in 2024 as a way for SPC Credit Union to strategically support four key development issues identified within our community: Hunger, Housing, Employment, & Education. The Foundation supports our local communities through monetary donations, in-kind donation drives, and volunteerism.

General Fund Scholarships

These funds are provided by the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation. Scholarships are available to Members of any credit union in North and South Carolina. Both academic and need-based scholarships for all levels of higher education are awarded, including technical and community college scholarships.

The Title I, Part C Migrant Education Program in South Carolina aims to enhance educational opportunities for migratory children and youth. This initiative supports their success in meeting state academic standards and graduating high school. The program addresses unique challenges faced by these students, including educational disruptions and cultural barriers. Approximately $250,000 is available for subgrants, with the SC Department of Education planning to award four grants based on application quality.

The Southern Partners Fund's Discretionary Fund Grant aims to support grassroots community organizing for social, economic, and environmental justice in the Southeastern United States. It provides financial resources and technical assistance to rural organizations and leaders focused on transformative change. Eligible applicants include self-governed rural groups engaging in advocacy and community development. The fund prioritizes education reform, immigration rights, and voter engagement, allowing up to two requests per year, with a maximum award of $3,500.

The SPC Cares Foundation

The SPC Cares Foundation was established in 2024 as a way for SPC Credit Union to strategically support four key development issues identified within our community: Hunger, Housing, Employment, & Education. The Foundation supports our local communities through monetary donations, in-kind donation drives, and volunteerism.

Member Hardship Fund

SPC Cares Foundation's Member Hardship Fund provides financial assistance up to $1,500 in the form of a grant to Members who are experiencing financial hardship due to events beyond their control, including disasters, extended illnesses or injuries, and other special situations. The Member Hardship Fund does not aid with non-emergency situations or financial difficulties due to poor financial management, judgement, or negligence. Assistance for emergencies and crisis situations are considered on a case-by-case basis, and requested funding is not guaranteed.

This fund is intended to provide relief to SPC Members who are currently experiencing financial hardship. In accordance with the IRS, financial hardship must be demonstrated to receive grant funding and is understood to mean negative household income, meaning there is not enough income or limited to no savings to meet your required financial obligations. 

The L.B. Research and Education Foundation Grant Program supports U.S.-based nonprofits focusing on innovative education and health solutions for underserved populations. Eligible organizations can apply by submitting a 400-word concept paper, and selected applicants may receive funding ranging from $10,000 to $75,000. The Foundation prioritizes projects that foster critical thinking and creativity, address health disparities, and encourage collaboration. There are no application deadlines, promoting year-round engagement.

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 Watson-Brown Foundation Grant supports organizations dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the South. It offers various types of grants, including for educational programming and historic preservation, with a focus on southern studies. Eligible recipients include public charities in the southeastern United States. The Foundation's Junior Board of Trustees also awards grants to preservation projects in east central Georgia, emphasizing youth engagement in cultural heritage.

Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)

The Violence Against Women Act section is a Department of Justice grant-funded program created as a byproduct of the Federal Violence Against Women Act (1994). With federal aid, the South Carolina Office of the Attorney General (SCAG) established the S.T.O.P Violence Against Women program in 1996 to combat the prevalence of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, stalking and harassment in South Carolina.

The Violence Against Women Act Program (VAWA) has two main focuses:

• Prosecuting VAWA-related crimes
• Training law enforcement, judges, prosecutors, and victim advocates on the causes, consequences, intersectionalities, and laws related to domestic violence & sexual assault crimes

To meet the goals of the program, a director, a special prosecutor, program coordinator, and program assistant collaborate to implement the statewide program.

Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)

The purpose of the STOP program is to enhance the capacity of local communities to develop and strengthen effective law enforcement and prosecution strategies and victim services in cases involving violent crimes against women. In South Carolina, the VAWA Program goal is to provide federal funding through competitive grant awards to certified private, non-profit organizations and public/governmental agencies for projects that will provide, enhance, improve, and expand prosecution, law enforcement, court, and direct services to victims of domestic and dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking who are over the age of eleven. Projects are encouraged to support male victims.

VAWA projects must develop and implement victim-centered, trauma-focused strategies that encourage collaboration among units of local government; non-profit victim service programs; state, local, and tribal courts (including juvenile courts); and Indian tribal governments. Critical partnering entities include law enforcement; prosecution; the judiciary; pretrial services; probation and parole; community-based organizations, including culturally-specific organizations; and others. Further, they must continue to solicit input during implementation to ensure that proposed activities are designed to promote the safety, confidentiality, and economic independence of victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and dating violence." (34 U.S.C. § 10446).

VAWA funds may not be used to support services that focus exclusively on children or to develop sexual assault or domestic violence curricula for K-12 schools. VAWA funds may be used for an adolescent program for primary victims over the age of 11.

Urban Forestry Grants

Eligible Projects for this Funding Opportunity

The intent of this funding is to assist state, local, and tribal governments in areas impacted by hurricanes and natural disasters in 2022, 2023, and 2024 by improving mitigating post-storm threats to ecosystem functionality and providing technical assistance for rural and community forest restoration. All projects and purchases must be shown in each proposal to have a direct positive impact on the recovery of the affected areas. Proposal narratives must explicitly describe how activities will assist in the recovery in impacted areas. SCFC will prioritize funding for projects affected by Hurricane Helene. SCFC will make subawards as described below to FEMA disaster declared counties/communities in South Carolina under this supplemental funding opportunity.

South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association Grant

Foundation grants are awarded to assist individuals who experience tragedy or hardship due to circumstances beyond their control and demonstrate a financial or otherwise immediate need. The grants are available for those who experience natural disasters, home fires, medical emergency, act of terrorism or otherwise personal tragedy. Submit an application, letter from local Fire Chief and statistical information to the Association’s office in Columbia.

How much are grants? 

An individual may receive more than one grant. Each grant request will be evaluated separately. The Foundation will determine whether to award multiple grants based on all relevant factors, including the individual’s need and particular circumstances, the total amount of funds that the Foundation has available for grants, and the amount and needs of other applicants. The grant recipient may receive a minimum of $250 and maximum of $1,500 per grant awarded. 

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 Josephine Moffatt Stevenson Community Charitable Trust, established in 1973, supports medical, educational, and religious organizations in South Carolina, particularly in Abbeville County, Anderson County, and Due West. Administered by Wells Fargo Bank, the Trust awards approximately 10 grants annually, ranging from $1,000 to $7,000, to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations, addressing community needs and enhancing local services.

The Christine Brice Stevenson Community Charitable Trust Grant supports medical, educational, and religious organizations in South Carolina, especially in Abbeville County, Anderson County, and Due West. Grants, averaging $1,000, aim to enrich the lives of local residents. Eligibility is limited to 501(c)(3) organizations, excluding Erskine College and Erskine Seminary. The trust prioritizes initiatives that align with its mission, providing approximately four grants annually with a total giving of around $5,000.

The Hubert E. Sapp Regular Grant Cycle, by Southern Partners Fund, aims to empower rural communities in the Southeastern U.S. through grassroots leadership and organizing. The fund provides support to nonprofit organizations focused on social, economic, and environmental justice. Eligible applicants are community-based organizations with budgets under $350,000. The initiative honors Hubert E. Sapp's legacy, promoting equitable relationships that drive real transformation and community decision-making.

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 Joseph J. Miller Foundation Grant supports diverse charitable initiatives for both Jewish and non-Jewish organizations in South Carolina. Established in 1973, this grant prioritizes local groups, especially those in Elloree, and focuses on areas including arts, education, health, and human services. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt, with equal funding allocated to Jewish and non-Jewish entities. This commitment reflects a strong dedication to community development and support.

The California Casualty Thomas R. Brown Athletics Grant aims to support public middle and high school sports programs facing funding challenges due to budget cuts. Established by California Casualty, this grant provides financial assistance for purchasing equipment and covering travel costs for competitions. Eligible applicants must be active employees of public schools and members of affiliated education associations. Awards cannot be used for individual student recognition or fundraising projects.

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 Appalachian Landscapes Project - Capital Grants Application Fall 2025 by the Open Space Institute aims to enhance conservation across the Appalachian Mountain region. With a focus on biodiversity, climate resilience, and community benefits, this initiative supports the acquisition of land and conservation easements. As a vital climate refuge, the Appalachians play a crucial role in safeguarding habitats and providing public recreation opportunities for the 26 million residents living in this area.

The Battlefield Preservation Fund Grant aims to support initiatives that preserve battlefields and related historic sites. This funding encourages planning and educational efforts, particularly those that engage new audiences in preservation activities. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofits in specified states. Grants can be used for staff support, consultant fees, and educational materials. Applicants must provide a one-to-one match for funding, ensuring strong community involvement in preservation efforts.

Stabilization Grants are awarded for “bid-ready projects” for the stabilization and weatherization of historic buildings. Stabilization and weatherization, as a treatment, is the act or process of applying measures designed to reestablish the structural stability of an unsafe or deteriorated property and a weather resistant enclosure while maintaining the essential form as it exists at present. The stabilization and weatherization must meet the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation. 

The Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program is the leading source of federal criminal justice funding to states and units of local government. The South Carolina Department of Public Safety’s Office of Highway Safety and Justice Programs (OHSJP) has been designated as the State Administrative Agency (SAA) of the JAG Program for the state of South Carolina. The purpose of the JAG Program is to support state agencies and units of local government in carrying out specific programs, which offer a high probability of improving the criminal justice system. JAG funds may be used to provide additional personnel, equipment, supplies, contractual support, training, technical assistance, and information systems for criminal justice purposes. Nine authorized federal program areas define the nature and scope of eligible programs and projects. The program areas are as follows:

• Law enforcement programs
• Prosecution and court programs
• Prevention and education programs
• Corrections and community corrections programs
• Drug treatment and enforcement programs
• Planning, evaluation, and technology improvement programs
• Crime victim and witness initiatives (other than compensation) programs
• Mental health programs and related law enforcement and corrections programs, including behavioral programs and crisis intervention teams
• Implementation of state crisis intervention court proceedings and related programs or initiatives (i.e. mental health courts, drug courts, veteran’s courts, etc.) 

The PPC Foundation Grants support charitable organizations with 501(c)(3) status, distributing 10% of pre-tax profits annually. Grants range from under $500 to over $2,500, with varying documentation requirements. The foundation emphasizes community involvement and prefers charities in areas where they operate. They do not fund political, religious entities without separate social service programs, or organizations primarily funded by public tax support. This initiative reflects their commitment to compassionate service and community prosperity.

The Arts Project Support Grants by the South Carolina Arts Commission aim to fund quality arts projects and programs for artists and organizations. Eligible applicants include artists, nonprofit organizations, and government units, with funds supporting project costs such as technical capacity building and professional development. Priority is given to projects in specific counties within South Carolina. Applications should be submitted at least five weeks prior to project commencement, with all activities funded to occur between August 11, 2025, and May 31, 2026.