Best Grants for Teachers Continuing Education in South Carolina

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.

The South Carolina Department of Education is offering funding through the Abstinence Until Marriage Evidence-Based Programs RFP. With approximately $546,972 available, grants will be awarded to nonprofit organizations to implement evidence-based teen pregnancy prevention programs that promote abstinence until marriage for youth aged 10-19. These programs must comply with Title V, Section 510 requirements and be certified by the National Abstinence Education Association, ensuring they adhere to the South Carolina Comprehensive Health Education Act.

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 Atlantic Flyway Shorebird Initiative Grant supports crucial conservation efforts for shorebirds during their migration along the Atlantic Flyway. This initiative addresses threats such as human disturbance, habitat loss, and hunting in critical areas from the U.S. Atlantic coast to the Caribbean and South America. By promoting coordinated research and management, the initiative aims to ensure the survival of species like the American oystercatcher and red knot, fostering healthy migratory pathways.

The project titled 'Aquatic Fauna Response to Ecosystem Restoration in Southwest Florida' aims to assess the effects of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP) on aquatic fauna. It will utilize a Monitoring and Assessment Plan (MAP) to evaluate responses of aquatic communities and inform future restoration efforts. This initiative is crucial for documenting CERP benefits and guiding further ecosystem restoration, ultimately benefiting the public by tracking progress in ecological recovery.

About Us

The South Carolina Developmental Disabilities Council was established in 1971 by Executive Order of the Governor and was reauthorized in 2010 and again in 2015. Not less than 60% of the total Council membership is consumers and family members. Additional members come from state agencies, DD Act partners and non-governmental organizations.

The Council is federally funded under the Developmental Disabilities Act. The Council engages in activities that contribute to a coordinated, consumer and family centered and directed, comprehensive system that includes needed community services, individualized supports and other forms of assistance that promote self-determination for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

DD Council Small Grants

Small Grant Funding is awarded to evidence-based,organized activities that enhance knowledge and skills in priority areas outlined in our Five-Year State Plan, specifically Community Supports, Employment, and Self-Advocacy.

Organizations are limited to one small grant per program year, from July 1 to June 30.

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 Charles B. Keesee Educational Fund Scholarship offers financial support for students pursuing eligible Master's and Doctoral degrees at various Baptist seminaries. Grants range from $3,100 to $8,800 annually, depending on the program and applicant status. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and residents of specific states, have a minimum GPA of 2.5, and demonstrate intent to enter Baptist ministry. This fund has assisted thousands of students since its establishment in 1941.

South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association

The South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association was founded in 1905 by a group of determined fire service leaders committed to strengthening the fire service through education, training, benefit provision, and legislative representation. Today, our mission stands: to serve the membership as the leader in fire service advocacy, benefits, education, and safety, while acting as the steward of the Firemen’s Insurance and Inspection Fund.

To fulfill this mission, the Association is supported by a family of programs and organizations that extend our reach and impact. These include the South Carolina Firefighters Foundation, the South Carolina Burned Children’s Fund (operating under the Foundation), the South Carolina Firefighters Insurance Services, and the South Carolina Firefighters Assistance Team.

Lieutenant Taylor A. Graham Memorial Scholarship

Lieutenant Graham served in the fire service for more than 30 years, dedicating his career to protecting citizens across Greenville and Spartanburg Counties. He proudly served 22 years with the City of Greer Fire Department as a Lieutenant and was also a member of the Greenville County Emergency Response Team (ERT). Beyond his years of service, Lieutenant Graham was deeply passionate about mentoring and teaching future firefighters. As an instructor at the fire academy, he took great pride in helping develop the next generation of fire service professionals and was honored to share his knowledge and experience with others entering the profession.

The Graham family has established an annual scholarship in remembrance of Lieutenant Taylor A Graham’s dedication and passion for the citizens of Greenville and Spartanburg Counties, and South Carolina’s fire service.

Applicants must complete the application, offer a letter of support from the applicant’s Fire Chief, and provide a general reference letter of support from a person of the applicant’s choosing. 

South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association

The South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association was founded in 1905 by a group of determined fire service leaders committed to strengthening the fire service through education, training, benefit provision, and legislative representation. Today, our mission stands: to serve the membership as the leader in fire service advocacy, benefits, education, and safety, while acting as the steward of the Firemen’s Insurance and Inspection Fund.

To fulfill this mission, the Association is supported by a family of programs and organizations that extend our reach and impact. These include the South Carolina Firefighters Foundation, the South Carolina Burned Children’s Fund (operating under the Foundation), the South Carolina Firefighters Insurance Services, and the South Carolina Firefighters Assistance Team.

Chief Louis Behrens Scholarship

Co-founder of the South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association, Chief Louis Behrens was fire chief in the City of Charleston for 25 years and was a faithful member of his department for a total of 58 years. Chief Behrens was the creative visionary and served as the Association’s first and longest serving President. Chief Behrens worked to promote and led the South Carolina Firefighters’ Association for 27 years and was instrumental in the passing of the Fireman’s Fund Bill, known today as the One Percent Fund.

The Foundation has established an annual scholarship to honor the dedication and love that Chief Louis Behrens gave to the citizens of the state of South Carolina and South Carolina’s fire service.

Applicants must complete the application, offer a letter of support from the applicant’s Fire Chief, and provide a general reference letter of support from a person of the applicant’s choosing. 

South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association

The South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association was founded in 1905 by a group of determined fire service leaders committed to strengthening the fire service through education, training, benefit provision, and legislative representation. Today, our mission stands: to serve the membership as the leader in fire service advocacy, benefits, education, and safety, while acting as the steward of the Firemen’s Insurance and Inspection Fund.

To fulfill this mission, the Association is supported by a family of programs and organizations that extend our reach and impact. These include the South Carolina Firefighters Foundation, the South Carolina Burned Children’s Fund (operating under the Foundation), the South Carolina Firefighters Insurance Services, and the South Carolina Firefighters Assistance Team.

Chief Jim Stone Scholarship

Chief James Casper Stone Jr., a 50-year veteran, joined the Darlington Fire Department in 1962. In 1984, he was promoted as the City of Darlington's first full-time Fire Chief fulfilling and living his dream every day until his retirement in 2012. Chief Stone led his department with dedication, determination, drive, and a kind spirit that reached deep into his community. He was instrumental in preserving the town’s first horse-drawn fire engine for perpetual display the community continues to enjoy. In addition to his tenure with the fire service, Stone was an active, lifetime member of his church, and served on numerous community boards including Darlington County Council.

The Stone family has established an annual scholarship in remembrance of Chief Jim Stone's dedication and passion for the citizens of the City of Darlington, Darlington County, and South Carolina’s Fire Service.  

Applicants must complete the application, offer a letter of support from the applicant’s Fire Chief, and provide a general reference letter of support from a person of the applicant’s choosing. 

South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association

The South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association was founded in 1905 by a group of determined fire service leaders committed to strengthening the fire service through education, training, benefit provision, and legislative representation. Today, our mission stands: to serve the membership as the leader in fire service advocacy, benefits, education, and safety, while acting as the steward of the Firemen’s Insurance and Inspection Fund.

To fulfill this mission, the Association is supported by a family of programs and organizations that extend our reach and impact. These include the South Carolina Firefighters Foundation, the South Carolina Burned Children’s Fund (operating under the Foundation), the South Carolina Firefighters Insurance Services, and the South Carolina Firefighters Assistance Team.

Chief Carter Jones Leadership Scholarship

Carter Jones served the people of Clarendon County as fire chief for 22 years. Chief Jones, involved in the fire service for over five decades, was the 33rd president of the South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association. Chief Jones has worked for many years to promote and lead the Association to the betterment of its members. Carter loves history and works tirelessly to document the history of the South Carolina fire service on a statewide and local level. Carter is the definition of a leader and is dedicated to his community and his church. Carter personifies all which the Foundation represents.

The Foundation has established an annual scholarship to honor the dedication and love that Chief Jones gives to the citizens of the state of South Carolina and South Carolina’s fire service.

Applicants must complete the application, offer a letter of support from the applicant’s Fire Chief, and provide a general reference letter of support from a person of the applicant’s choosing. 

Community Engagement Grants

Community Engagement Grants support outreach, events, trainings, workshops, celebrations and other activities that serve and engage communities experiencing poverty.

What Community Engagement Grants Support

• Activities focused in at least one of the Foundation’s focus areas:
  • economic mobility
  • housing security and/or health care
• Activities serving any of South Carolina’s 46 counties.
• One-time or occasional activities that engage communities experiencing poverty. These grants are not meant to support an organization’s core programs and activities (for example, a free medical clinic’s health care services).
• Activities that are occurring within six months of the funding date.
• Activities that benefit from a small one-time funding. Grant requests can be up to $1,500.
• Organizations cannot receive both a Community Engagement Grant and a Systems Change Grant from the Foundation in the same year. That means, if your organization has received a Systems Change Grant, you cannot apply for this grant.
• Organizations can receive one Community Engagement Grant annually.

Community Engagement Grant recipients do not need to submit reports to the Foundation.

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.

Eastern Carolina Community Foundation

Eastern Carolina Community Foundation, founded in 2006, is the newest community foundation in South Carolina. We have a permanent endowment to meet the changing needs of the Pee Dee.

Eastern Carolina Community Foundation improves the quality of life in our area of South Carolina through inspired philanthropy and innovative community programs. We serve Chesterfield, Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Marion, Marlboro, and Williamsburg Counties.

Scholarships

Eastern Carolina Community Foundation partners with donors to administer 12 scholarship funds for the benefit of students in the Pee Dee. All scholarship opportunities are established through specific funds established at ECCF with criteria determined by the donor. 

Christine Sides Fisher Arts and Music Education Scholarship

The Christine Sides Fisher Arts and Music Education Scholarship has been established by Christine and Tim Fisher in support of students who are seeking higher education in the field of performing arts and music education.

The fund provides up to a $10,000 4-year scholarship, awarded as a $2,500 multi-year scholarship to a Florence 1 Schools student or alumni pursuing an education degree in the field of performing arts education.

Students will receive a $2,500 award in their 2nd, 3rd, and 4th years of enrollment as long as proof of passing grades and enrollment in the performing arts department of the South Carolina educational institution or the University of North Carolina at Pembroke are submitted to Eastern Carolina Community Foundation by July 1 of each subsequent year.

The Festivals Program Grant, offered by the South Carolina Arts Commission, aims to support a wide range of arts activities at festivals that significantly impact local communities. By fostering public engagement and participation in arts and culture, this grant prioritizes festivals in underserved areas, enhancing access to creative experiences for all. Eligibility extends to local governments and registered nonprofits, ensuring that the arts remain integral to South Carolina's community life, especially during challenging times.

The South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association’s awards are meant to recognize instructors and firefighters from all stages of their careers for their courageous acts of valor or outstanding leadership skills. Please note that not all awards are presented annually but on basis of merit.Fitness in Action Award

The Fitness in Action Awards are presented to fire departments –career, volunteer, and combination – that have made significant contributions in improving the wellbeing of its members. The criteria are multidimensional and include components such as safety, physical fitness, nutrition, and behavioral health. The award recognizes departments that have successfully implemented programs that promote the overall health of their firefighters.Nominee Criteria

Health and Wellness is a broad and multidimensional concept that includes many components such as: Safety, Medical, Physical Fitness, Nutrition, and Behavioral Health. For example, an individual can be very physically fit, but may be struggling with depression or be experiencing other stressors. While your program may not include all components listed above, if you can demonstrate an interactive process where your program promotes medical screenings, physical fitness, good nutrition, and/or addresses such issues as emotional health, suicide prevention, substance abuse, etc. and you have a success story of how this/these programs enhanced an individual(s) or your overall department, then we want to hear from you.

The Abney Foundation Grant supports innovative and creative projects that address community needs in South Carolina, particularly in health, education, social services, and cultural affairs. With a strong focus on higher education, the foundation allocates 75-80% of its funding for this purpose. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, while individual grants and operational expenses are typically not funded. A Letter of Intent is encouraged for potential applicants.

The Frankenmuth Insurance Foundation Charitable Grant supports qualified charities focused on community betterment and basic human needs. Founded in 2016, it aims to enhance lives through initiatives such as affordable housing, health programs, and the arts. Organizations eligible for funding must be tax-exempt and serve areas where Frankenmuth Insurance operates. Notably, the foundation excludes support for individuals, political groups, and projects typically financed by governments, ensuring its resources benefit the wider community.

The TD Charitable Foundation's Capacity Building Fund empowers nonprofit organizations by providing grants aimed at enhancing their operational capabilities. Established in 2002, this initiative focuses on funding projects that promote job training, arts, and housing assistance, particularly for historically underserved communities. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, the foundation seeks to support organizations that align with its TD Ready Commitment drivers, ensuring impactful and sustainable community development.

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 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.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant for schools to implement the PLTW Biomedical Science program for the 2026-2029 academic years. Eligible schools can receive up to $14,000 to cover participation fees and training costs. This grant encourages public, private, and charter schools across the U.S. to enhance their science curriculum, supporting students with engaging, hands-on learning experiences. Schools must commit to offering specific courses during the grant period to qualify for funding.

The David, Helen and Marian Woodward Fund, established by Marian Woodward Ottley in 1974, aims to support non-profit organizations in Georgia and neighboring states. The fund prioritizes capital projects and educational programs that enhance graduation rates, particularly those with religious affiliations. Grants are awarded exclusively to 501(c)(3) organizations, while governmental agencies can also apply. The foundation's mission underscores a commitment to improving the world for future generations.

Dabo's All in Team Foundation Grant Program aims to support local South Carolina organizations in need of financial assistance for projects that align with its mission to address critical education and health issues. By providing funding opportunities, the program seeks to empower organizations with innovative solutions that can positively impact their communities. This initiative fosters collaboration among groups dedicated to improving lives across the state, ensuring that valuable ideas receive the support they deserve.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant opportunity for schools across the US to implement the PLTW Gateway program for the first time. With total funding of $9,100, the grant covers participation fees and training registration costs. Schools, including public, private, and charter, are encouraged to apply, particularly those serving low-income and minority majority populations. This initiative aims to enhance educational pathways in STEM for diverse student groups.