Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in South Carolina

The Infrastructure Innovation for Biological Research Program by NSF aims to enhance contemporary biology through innovative research tools and methods. It focuses on developing or redesigning infrastructure in bioinformatics, instrumentation, and research methods. Projects should significantly advance biological understanding and be applicable to a wider research community. Proposals should aim at transforming biological research by either creating novel tools or adapting existing ones in meaningful ways, addressing fundamental questions in the biological sciences.

The Excellence in JEDI Award, presented by the National Association of Geoscience Teachers (NAGT), honors individuals who promote justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) in geoscience education. This prestigious award recognizes significant contributions, including mentorship and advocacy for marginalized groups. Awardees receive a one-year NAGT membership and an opportunity to present their work at a DEI event. Nominations are accepted online, and selections are made by the NAGT DEI Committee.

American Society of Civil Engineers 

The American Society of Civil Engineers represents more than 160,000 members of the civil engineering profession in 177 countries. Founded in 1852, ASCE is the nation’s oldest national civil engineering society.

ASCE stands at the forefront of a profession that plans, designs, constructs, and operates society’s economic and social engine – the built environment – while protecting and restoring the natural environment.

G. B. Mann Scholarship

All scholarships are awarded on an equal opportunity basis to current high school senior students who attend school in the Dallas Branch region (Collin, Cooke, Dallas, Denton, Ellis, Kaufman, Navarro, and Rockwall Counties) and who will be attending an institution of higher learning in the 2026 Fall Semester in pursuit of a degree in Civil Engineering.

About G. B. Mann

The (Dallas) Branch Scholarship Fund was established in the early 90s when David Schnurbusch was the Branch president. In 1993, the Fund received a large boost from George Boley Mann, when he contributed a large sum of his retirement investments to the Fund. Numerous Dallas area high school and college students have benefited from his large and kind endowment. He did not want any publicity for this contribution.

An ASCE Past President and Life Member, Mr. Mann received a degree in Civil Engineering from SMU. During WWII he worked in Ordinance Department at Aberdeen Proving Grounds in Maryland. He retired from Texas Department of Transportation after 34 years of service. He was active in ASCE and NSPE. He contributed to the construction of numerous Texas highways. He mentored many young engineers.

The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) offers Grants for Arts Projects (GAP) to support diverse arts initiatives that enhance public engagement and education. These grants aim to improve community well-being through the arts and are open to all organizations, regardless of size or location. Applicants are encouraged to align their projects with NEA funding priorities, fostering creativity across various disciplines such as music, theater, and visual arts.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Thomas R. and Catharine G. Allan Scholarship Fund

The Thomas R. and Catharine G. Allan Scholarship was established in memory of Thomas R. and Catharine G. Allan who thought it was important to further your education. The scholarship assists graduating seniors and graduates from Calhoun County public and private high schools pursuing postsecondary educational opportunities in teacher education.

The Michigan Animal Health Foundation offers research and education grants to enhance animal health and welfare. Since 1977, these grants have supported nearly 50 projects aimed at improving veterinary care and medical techniques. Eligibility varies, with specific criteria for research grants, while educational grants have no restrictions. Researchers and educators alike can benefit from this funding, which plays a vital role in advancing animal health initiatives.

American Chemical Society

The American Chemical Society (ACS) is a non-profit organization founded in 1876 and chartered by the U.S. Congress. ACS is committed to improving all lives through the transforming power of chemistry. Our mission is to advance scientific knowledge, empower a global community, and champion scientific integrity. Our vision is a world built on science.

What We Do

More than 145 years after our founding, we remain a champion for chemistry, its practitioners and our global community of members.

We’re recognized as a leading publisher of authoritative scientific information. Our 80+ peer-reviewed journals are ranked the “most-trusted, most-cited and most-read.”

We empower our members to advance chemistry, elevate their career potential, expand their networks, inspire future generations, collaborate globally and build communities that provide scientific solutions.

We provide broader networks that facilitate connections and open doors in a way no other professional organization can match!

ACS Catalyst Scholarship

Description

The ACS Catalyst Scholarship is an education initiative designed to support undergraduate students pursuing chemistry or chemistry-related fields. This scholarship offers support to undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need or hardship. This program provides $10,000 in funding, with the possibility of renewal in future years, to help students continue their academic journey.

Must plan to pursue a career in the chemical sciences.

Funding for this scholarship is paid directly to accredited colleges or universities to cover essential educational expenses, such as tuition, fees, and books.

About AWS

We Move Welding Forward

Founded in 1919, the American Welding Society is a nonprofit organization with a global mission: to advance the science, technology, and application of welding and allied joining and cutting processes worldwide, including brazing, soldering, and thermal spraying.

By fostering knowledge, embracing change, and providing real-world opportunities through scholarships, fellowships, and workforce development, AWS provides the tools to help members succeed—and to inspire future generations of welding professionals.

Education / Meritorious / Service Awards

The Educational/Meritorious/Service awards recognize individuals who have made notable contributions to the welding industry. From educators who have advanced welding knowledge to those who've exhibited outstanding service, these awards celebrate dedication, expertise, and the advancement of welding as both an art and a science.

Adams Memorial Membership Award

This award, established by the American Welding Society, is given as a means of recognizing educators whose teaching activities are considered to have advanced the knowledge of welding of the undergraduate or postgraduate students in their respective engineering institutions.

Complete nomination packets may be submitted for consideration to the AWS Awards Committee and must include an introduction letter of support and a complete resume or CV of the individual’s qualifications. Send only complete nominations to nationalawards@aws.org by January 1.

Outstanding Program Award

Recognizing the exceptional programming of AAFP Chapters and Chapter Foundations.

The AAFP Foundation established this award to nationally recognize outstanding philanthropic activities of AAFP Chapters and Chapter Foundations. Each year, one program is selected, and the Award is presented during AAFP FMX at the AAFP Foundation recognition event.

The Outstanding Program Award Recipient will receive up to a $1,000 reimbursement for travel to FMX to accept the award at the AAFP Foundation Donor Recognition dinner.

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts administers over 160 scholarships. Some of the funds help students from a particular school or area; others provide financial assistance to those pursuing a specific field of study; still others assist students that are most in need. Students who apply to the Scholarship program may be eligible for many of these funds. 

Scholarships are provided for one academic year and are not automatically renewed each year. You can reapply to our program every year you are going to attend college, and the application you submit that year will be considered for all scholarships for which you are eligible.

Little Red Schoolhouse Scholarship Fund 

To support residents of Hampshire or Franklin County studying education with a preference for those studying Early Childhood Education, elementary or special education.

Additional Guidelines

• Students can receive up to $3,000 in scholarships from the Community Foundation.
• Scholarship awards could impact the financial aid offered by a college, and students are advised to check with their college financial aid offices about this.
• Scholarships may be used to offset tuition, fees, room and board, and other items included as part of the cost for attending the institution. Some part and/or all the award could be considered taxable income. It is advisable students check with the college or tax accountant regarding this matter.

Our Mission

Empower donors to fulfill their passions and dreams by establishing charitable vehicles designed to create a positive and enduring impact on Jewish Buffalo, Western New York and the World.

Dr. Louis Sklarow Award

The Dr. Louis Sklarow Award was established in 1995 in honor of prominent Buffalo Physician and State University of New York at Buffalo Medical School Graduate Dr. Louis Sklarow.

The award is given to an outstanding graduate of Jewish faith from the Jacob’s School of Medicine who has shown by character and medical accomplishment great promise in becoming a fine physician and a person most likely to make a contribution to mankind and bring honor to the Jacob’s School of Medicine.

The Louis Sklarow Memorial Fund continues to fund research for the treatment and cure of Down Syndrome, Alzheimer’s disease and cancer through research performed at the University of Buffalo, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center and other renown institutions.

The Development of Fiscal Year 2027 Commercial Vehicle Safety Plans aims to enhance national safety goals by reducing incidents involving commercial motor vehicles. This initiative, funded by the US Department of Transportation's FMCSA, provides crucial financial support to states and territories. Through the Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program, the focus is on minimizing crashes, injuries, and fatalities associated with commercial vehicle operations, ensuring safer roads for all.

The U.S. Venture/Schmidt Family Foundation supports initiatives that drive self-sufficiency and community enrichment for vulnerable populations. With over $4.31 million awarded last year, the foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate measurable impact and foster stronger communities. Eligible organizations include those designated as public charities by the IRS. The foundation emphasizes collaboration with other funders, avoiding sole financial support to ensure comprehensive community development.

The BJS FY 2026 State Justice Statistics Program enhances the capabilities of Statistical Analysis Centers (SACs) to collect and analyze data that supports strategic criminal justice planning. This initiative is vital for federal, state, and local agencies and organizations as they develop policies related to crime and justice. Applications are due by September 29, 2026, at 8:59 PM ET, emphasizing the program's importance in fostering informed decision-making in criminal justice.

The McDaniel Scholarship at Adams State University aims to provide full-tuition scholarships to students in junior standing or above, including post-graduate and graduate students. Established by Dr. John E. McDaniel, this scholarship honors past students while supporting the educational aspirations of future scholars. As part of Colorado's premier Hispanic-Serving Institution, this initiative reflects the university’s commitment to equitable access to education and empowering historically underserved populations.

The NIH Common Fund Data Ecosystem aims to enhance the reusability of biomedical data through collaboration between Common Fund programs and external data resources. This funding opportunity encourages projects that connect various biomedical data ecosystems, including the HEAL Data Ecosystem and the BRAIN Initiative. By fostering partnerships, the initiative seeks to improve the accessibility and interoperability of valuable datasets, ultimately advancing research efforts. Note that clinical trials are excluded from this funding opportunity.

The Peggy Barber Tribute Grant, offered by the American Library Association, supports libraries facing budget constraints by providing $2,500 to three selected libraries. The 2025-2026 cycle focuses on programming that strengthens community ties through libraries as third spaces, promoting gatherings and connections among individuals. Eligible proposals may include intergenerational gardening programs, play-based activities for adults, or visual arts performances. Applicants must have ALA or ARSL membership and demonstrate how their program will foster community engagement.

The Gunther & Lee Weigel Medical School Scholarship is an exclusive opportunity for current and former Elks National Foundation scholarship recipients pursuing medical or osteopathic degrees. This scholarship, established in memory of Gunther Weigel, aims to support Elks scholars entering their first year of medical school. The number and amount of scholarships vary annually, reflecting the Foundation's commitment to healthcare education.

The PLTW Engineering program, in partnership with Ardagh Group, aims to enhance education in local communities over the next decade, impacting over 500,000 PreK-12 students and training more than 5,000 teachers across 2,000 schools in the U.S. This initiative is supported by a $50,000 grant, distributed over three years, facilitating diverse engineering courses and improving educational equity. Ardagh Group, a global leader in sustainable packaging, emphasizes the importance of education in fostering vibrant communities.

About AWS

We Move Welding Forward

Founded in 1919, the American Welding Society is a nonprofit organization with a global mission: to advance the science, technology, and application of welding and allied joining and cutting processes worldwide, including brazing, soldering, and thermal spraying.

By fostering knowledge, embracing change, and providing real-world opportunities through scholarships, fellowships, and workforce development, AWS provides the tools to help members succeed—and to inspire future generations of welding professionals.

Education / Meritorious / Service Awards

The Educational/Meritorious/Service awards recognize individuals who have made notable contributions to the welding industry. From educators who have advanced welding knowledge to those who've exhibited outstanding service, these awards celebrate dedication, expertise, and the advancement of welding as both an art and a science.

Elihu Thomson Resistance Welding Award

This award is administered by the American Welding Society and sponsored by the Resistance Welding Manufacturing Alliance (RWMA). It was established in 1985, during RWMA's 50th anniversary, for initial presentation in 1986 to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the invention of resistance welding. Naming of proposed recipients is the responsibility of RWMA.

It is presented annually to a living individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the technology and application of resistance welding, as evidenced by:

• Invention or production of new resistance welding equipment innovations or technology
• A unique application of resistance welding in a production environment
• A technical paper published in the Welding Journal or any other industry-recognized publication, or
• Other contribution the RWMA Governance Committee deems worthy of recognition

The Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) Program enhances access to scientific and engineering instruments in higher education and not-for-profit research organizations. By funding up to $4 million for multi-user instruments, MRI supports advancements in research capabilities and training for future instrument users. Institutions can submit multiple proposals across defined tracks, ensuring opportunities for critical research tools that propel science and engineering forward, while fostering innovation and education in instrument design.

The NIAID is dedicated to advancing research on medical countermeasures against chemical and radiation threats, focusing on innovative technologies to diagnose and treat exposure effects. The initiative promotes the development of models, biomarkers, and devices that enhance survival and reduce morbidity during public health emergencies. It supports preclinical efforts to address injuries from designated Chemicals of Concern, emphasizing the need for effective solutions in civilian mass casualty scenarios.

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts administers over 160 scholarships. Some of the funds help students from a particular school or area; others provide financial assistance to those pursuing a specific field of study; still others assist students that are most in need. Students who apply to the Scholarship program may be eligible for many of these funds. 

Scholarships are provided for one academic year and are not automatically renewed each year. You can reapply to our program every year you are going to attend college, and the application you submit that year will be considered for all scholarships for which you are eligible.

George H. McDonnell Scholarship Fund

To support South Hadley residents who are studying civil or environmental engineering at a four-year college.

Additional Guidelines

• Students can receive up to $3,000 in scholarships from the Community Foundation.
• Scholarship awards could impact the financial aid offered by a college, and students are advised to check with their college financial aid offices about this.
• Scholarships may be used to offset tuition, fees, room and board, and other items included as part of the cost for attending the institution. Some part and/or all the award could be considered taxable income. It is advisable students check with the college or tax accountant regarding this matter.

The Community Foundation of Marquette County distributes over $130,000 annually in scholarships to benefit aspiring students in Marquette County.

Meggan Eiben Memorial Scholarship Fund

Provides financial assistance to students of Marquette Area Public Schools entering a college educational program in the field of teaching. 

Distribution Process

• CFMC scholarship recipients will be contacted in June requesting student enrollment verification
• Scholarships can only be distributed once student’s information is received
• Scholarships will be distributed to the college/school/university indicated by student
• The scholarship must be used for tuition and fees required for the enrollment or attendance of the student at a qualifying educational institution; fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for courses of instruction at such an educational institution; and room and board, within the first semester of first year of students enrollment
• That year’s recipient must claim the scholarship within that fiscal year to be distributed (by 12/31/xx)

Foundation of the Federal Bar Association

The Foundation of the Federal Bar Association provides the best way for practitioners to give back to the Federal legal community. Chartered by Congress in 1954, the Foundation serves people in communities across the United States through its generous grants, scholarships, and programming.

Our Mission: The Foundation’s mission is to:

• Promote and support legal research and education;
• Advance the science of jurisprudence;
• Facilitate the administration of justice;
• Foster improvements in the practice of Federal law

Elaine R. “Boots” Fisher Award

Elaine R. “Boots” Fisher was the wife of former National and Northern District of Ohio Chapter President Stanley M. Fisher. Sadly, in 1989 “Boots” Fisher succumbed to illness. The Elaine R. “Boots” Fisher Award is presented as a memorial to the outstanding and unselfish contributions made by “Boots” Fisher to improve the quality of life and opportunities of all persons. She gave of herself willingly to help others to overcome adversity.

The award is intended to stimulate, encourage and recognize exemplary community, public and charitable service by members of the Federal Bar Association. Nominations should demonstrate:

• Continuous general or specific contributions to community, charitable or public service;
• Specific accomplishments for which the nominee is primarily responsible which serve to enhance, promote and encourage community, charitable and/or public service; and
• Specific personal achievements of the nominee which serve to provide inspiration and hope to others. The charitable contribution made in the name of the recipient reflects the essence of the person in whose honor this award is established.

The charitable contribution made in the name of the recipient reflects the essence of the person in whose honor this award is established. A cash contribution in the amount of $1,000 will be made in the recipient’s name to a charity selected by the recipient. The charity selected must meet the requirements of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and contributions to charitable organizations which promote the provision of legal services and the administration of justice are encouraged but not required.

Bengier Foundation

After lots of hard work and more than a bit of luck, Gary and Cynthia were able to retire from professional business careers at an early age. They decided then to try to give back a little to their community and to others less lucky than they. So the Bengier Foundation was formed in 2004 to give a helping hand to bright, hardworking young people who need a little help to find their own success.

One of our goals is to help – in a small way – to focus attention on the need to increase our American educational capital. The dropout rate statistics are shocking. We must do more to help the next generation prepare for the increasing demands of our ever-more sophisticated information economy. The Bengier Foundation believes that we must give everyone a chance to achieve their potential.

Bengier Foundation Grants

The foundation's mission is to provide educational experiences that motivate, broaden and qualify bright, hard working young people who have limited means and limited opportunities to enlarge their expectations of what they can accomplish in life.

• By motivate we mean to change a young person’s expectations about themself, by providing experiences which pique their interest, or that let them see themself in a role or career that they never previously imagined.
• By broaden we mean to allow a young person to have experiences that broaden their perspective of the world or cause them to view it and their role in it differently.
• By qualify we mean to help a young person gain the experiences and education that will allow them to succeed in college and in life.

Individual Provider Grants empower medical providers to contribute to communities through medical mission trips. These grants fund nonprofit organizations to assist with program costs. Applications are accepted year-round, but should ideally be submitted 30-60 days prior to the mission for timely processing. The Making a Difference Foundation reviews all applications monthly; however, meeting eligibility does not ensure funding at the requested amount.