Best Grants for Teachers Continuing Education in South Carolina

The Douglas K. Fletcher Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, aims to support students in their pursuit of higher education by providing funding for essential supplies, equipment, and textbooks. Eligible applicants must be first-generation college students residing in Beaufort, Hampton, Jasper, or Colleton counties, enrolled full-time at designated local institutions, and maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0. This scholarship fosters educational opportunities and community growth.

The Stephen Nicholas Smith Memorial Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, honors Stephen Nicholas Smith's legacy by providing financial assistance to high school seniors or recent graduates from Hampton, Barnwell, or Colleton counties in South Carolina. This scholarship targets students demonstrating significant financial need who are pursuing post-secondary education in technical colleges within the South Carolina Technical College system. It aims to empower local youth and foster educational opportunities.

The SESAPS Francis Slack Award, established by the Southeastern Section of the American Physical Society, honors individuals who have selflessly contributed to advancing physics in the Southeast. It recognizes efforts in enhancing research facilities, strengthening academic departments, and fostering regional physics organizations. Nominations remain active for three years, with a focus on encouraging women and minority candidates. This prestigious award commemorates the legacy of Francis G. Slack, a pivotal figure in the development of the Southeastern Section.

The Professional Development and Artistic Planning Grants, offered by South Arts, support the professional growth of presenters, programmers, and curators in the Southern U.S. These grants facilitate travel to conferences, workshops, and other opportunities to enhance organizational capacity and program design. Emphasizing diversity and inclusion, South Arts encourages applications from organizations led by BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and disabled individuals. Funding covers travel, training, and related expenses, promoting equitable access to professional development.

The SCAC Term Arts Education Project Grants support quality arts education for preschool and K-12 students during the 2025-2026 academic year. The grants aim to enhance access to arts education, integrate arts with school curricula, and address South Carolina’s educational standards. Eligible applicants include colleges, local governments, and nonprofit organizations. Priority is given to projects serving underserved communities and addressing learning loss caused by COVID-19, ensuring a broad impact on students' educational development.

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.

The SCAC Individual Artist Fellowships aim to honor the artistic accomplishments of South Carolina's individual artists. With awards of $10,000, these fellowships are competitive and based on artistic merit, achievements, and dedication to the discipline. Eligible applicants must be legal residents of South Carolina, over 18 years old, and not degree-seeking students during the award period. Up to five fellowships are awarded annually, with specific artistic disciplines rotating each year.

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.

BackgroundThe South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism (SCPRT) administers the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) under the approval of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). This federally funded program receives its funding from a portion of federal gas taxes paid on fuel used in non-highway recreational vehicles. Funds can be spent on both Motorized and Nonmotorized recreational trail projects to construct new recreational trails, improve/maintain existing trails, develop/improve trailhead or trailside facilities and acquire trail corridors.

• Funding is provided by this program on a cost-reimbursement basis — the grant recipient must pay 100% of the cost of an item before submitting a reimbursement request for up to 80% of the eligible costs.
• Funds can be spent on both Motorized and Nonmotorized recreational trail projects — to construct new recreational trails, improve/maintain existing trails, develop/enhance trailhead or trailside facilities, and acquire trail corridors.
• Individual trail grants can range from a minimum of $10,000 ($12,500 would be the total project cost) to $100,000 maximum ($125,000—total project cost), except for Motorized projects.
• Motorized trail projects are not limited to $100,000 — these projects are eligible for the maximum amount of Motorized funding available.

Grant Priorities

Priorities for funding are based on the South Carolina State Trails Plan: Expanding the Experience, Trails for South Carolina (2002) and advice from South Carolina’s State Trails Advisory Committee. Projects will be evaluated in terms of their overall quality, need, public support, planning process; that adequate resources are available to execute the project; and that resources are available to adequately manage, maintain and operate the project after completion.

Private nonprofit organizations, local trail volunteer groups, and private operators of recreational facilities open to the public are encouraged to work with federal, state, and local government agencies to develop RTP grant applications. The State’s goal is long-term development and management of South Carolina Trails by fostering cooperative efforts among these groups. 

The South Carolina Biennial Sea Grant Program, managed by the S.C. Sea Grant Consortium, aims to enhance coastal conservation and sustainable development through research. With approximately $500,000 available annually for one- to two-year projects, grants typically range from $30,000 to $80,000. The program encourages collaboration among faculty from member institutions and supports initiatives that improve the social and economic well-being of coastal residents while conserving marine resources.

The South Carolina Forest Renewal Cost-Share Program provides essential financial assistance to eligible landowners for tree planting and forestry management practices. This initiative, supported by the South Carolina Forestry Commission and local forest industries, aims to enhance timber supplies and promote environmental benefits such as clean air and wildlife habitats. With funding covering up to 90% of costs, the program encourages sustainable forestry practices while stimulating the local economy. Participation requires adherence to specific management plans and completion within set timelines.

The SC Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, funded by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture, aims to support organizations involved with specialty crops in enhancing their competitiveness. Eligible applicants must present a project proposal focused on activities that benefit the specialty crop industry in South Carolina. Grants are not awarded to projects that profit a single organization or individual, ensuring that support is directed towards community-enhancing initiatives.

About

Central Carolina Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps generous people give back to the Midlands of South Carolina in ways that matter. Since 1984, we’ve been a trusted partner, helping individuals, families, and businesses make smart, meaningful contributions that support local nonprofits, scholarships, and community projects.

Mae and Wilbur Fulmer Scholarship ($2,000)

This renewable scholarship supports students who will graduate from a high school located in Chapin, South Carolina. 

About

Central Carolina Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps generous people give back to the Midlands of South Carolina in ways that matter. Since 1984, we’ve been a trusted partner, helping individuals, families, and businesses make smart, meaningful contributions that support local nonprofits, scholarships, and community projects.

Milford H. Wessinger Scholarship ($2,000) 

This renewable scholarship is available to graduating seniors or graduates of a high school in Lexington County, South Carolina. 

The Carolina Bird Club offers ongoing Conservation Grants aimed at supporting the research, education, and conservation of birds and their habitats in the Carolinas. Grants are awarded for specific purposes, and recipients must obtain permission for any reallocation of funds. Applications must include detailed project plans, budgets, and identification of conservation needs, ensuring that the protection of birds and their environments is prioritized.

The Carolina Bird Club offers ongoing grants for research, monitoring, and education focused on the conservation of birds in the Carolinas. These grants support projects that promote bird observation, education, and habitat protection. Applicants must be affiliated with an educational or non-profit institution and provide detailed proposals, including a budget and a letter of support. The club encourages projects addressing local conservation needs and aims to foster a deeper appreciation for avian species and their habitats.

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.

Who We Are

For nearly 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. The results of our work are visible across North and South Carolina, proving that by leveraging our cooperative spirit, we can change our communities.

Hero Awards

Each year, the Foundation honors people and organizations who have made or continue to make a transformational impact on the credit union movement. Hero Award winners are honored at the Foundation’s Awards Gala each year. 

Nominations for the following awards categories are accepted: The Lifetime Achievement Award, The Individual Achievement Award, The Partner in Philanthropy Award and The Advancing Equity Award.

The Partner in Philanthropy Award

Honors a business partner, service provider, chapter or credit union for its commitment and practices that exude philanthropic character and affirms the people helping people philosophy.

Who We Are

For nearly 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. The results of our work are visible across North and South Carolina, proving that by leveraging our cooperative spirit, we can change our communities.

Hero Awards

Each year, the Foundation honors people and organizations who have made or continue to make a transformational impact on the credit union movement. Hero Award winners are honored at the Foundation’s Awards Gala each year. 

Nominations for the following awards categories are accepted: The Lifetime Achievement Award, The Individual Achievement Award, The Partner in Philanthropy Award and The Advancing Equity Award.

The Lifetime Achievement Award

Honors one professional or one volunteer who has dedicated their life to promoting the credit union philosophy, created innovative concepts and exhibited leadership that has made a significant and lasting impact in the credit union movement on a local, national and/or international stage. This is traditionally awarded to an individual who has retired or has announced their retirement.

Who We Are

For nearly 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. The results of our work are visible across North and South Carolina, proving that by leveraging our cooperative spirit, we can change our communities.

Hero Awards

Each year, the Foundation honors people and organizations who have made or continue to make a transformational impact on the credit union movement. Hero Award winners are honored at the Foundation’s Awards Gala each year. 

Nominations for the following awards categories are accepted: The Lifetime Achievement Award, The Individual Achievement Award, The Partner in Philanthropy Award and The Advancing Equity Award.

The Individual Achievement Award

Honors one professional or one volunteer for their innovative concepts and/or accomplishments in the past three to five years that continue to contribute to the credit union community.

Who We Are

For nearly 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. The results of our work are visible across North and South Carolina, proving that by leveraging our cooperative spirit, we can change our communities.

Hero Awards

Each year, the Foundation honors people and organizations who have made or continue to make a transformational impact on the credit union movement. Hero Award winners are honored at the Foundation’s Awards Gala each year.  

Nominations for the following awards categories are accepted: The Lifetime Achievement Award, The Individual Achievement Award, The Partner in Philanthropy Award and The Advancing Equity Award.

The Advancing Equity Award

Honors an individual, credit union, business partner, or community non-profit for their commitment to the credit union industry’s 8th Cooperative Principle of DEI. This award recognizes the proactive efforts of people or organizations who cultivate belonging for all through fair and equitable policies, products, programs, and initiatives that enhance the well-being of employees, members, and/or surrounding communities. This award seeks to encourage those who, through committing time and resources to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, live out the cooperative principle to engage everyone in governance, management and representation.

CSX Charitable Investments provide essential in-kind donations to nonprofit organizations focused on supporting military members and community first responders. Through intermodal transportation services, CSX offers equipment and rail services to help reduce transportation costs for eligible organizations. The program also includes occasional donations of railroad materials and equipment based on availability. CSX prioritizes support for organizations operating within its service areas, promoting community betterment and development.

Vizo Financial Empowerment Grant

Through the generosity of Vizo Financial Corporate Credit Union, credit unions of all asset sizes can apply for grants that will fund financial education projects or programs to empower members to reach financial goals and establish a better quality of life. Up to $50,000 annually will be allocated to each of the state’s Foundations each year. 

Credit unions are encouraged to submit grant applications to implement programs or undertake projects in collaboration with other credit unions and/or community organizations, enriching financial literacy offerings for members and the communities credit unions serve. Greater consideration will be applied to grant applications when budget limitations act as a barrier to community outreach initiatives. Grants can be requested for up to a maximum of $10,000.

The Foundation will review grant requests for credit union initiatives that offer:

• Affordable options to costly financial products and services
• Lesser dependency on predatory financial providers
• Expanded financial education and literacy
• Enhanced personal financial management and planning for the future
• Increased individual savings and wealth-building
• Strengthened credit worthiness
• Improved financial wellbeing of local people and communities

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 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 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 Express Health Information Outreach Awards aim to enhance public health by increasing access to biomedical information for U.S. health professionals and the general public. These awards support projects that improve health information literacy among consumers and caregivers, ensuring they can effectively find and utilize health information. Focused on partnerships and outreach to underrepresented communities, the initiative seeks to promote healthy behaviors, prevent illness, and improve health outcomes through informed decision-making.