Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in South Carolina

Cathy Geerlings Indomitable Spirit Scholarship

Graduating senior or graduating early college student with substantial work history or record of volunteering who attends public, private, or home school in the primary service area of the Community Foundation; or a current college student with substantial work history or record of volunteering whose permanent address lies within the primary service area of the Community Foundation; or a currently employed worker from the greater Holland/Zeeland area, employed 20 or more hours per week, in human resources, manufacturing, skilled trades, semi-skilled trades, or other production-related areas with a greater Holland/Zeeland area company including temporary staffing agencies.

The Duluth Builders Exchange Legacy Fund provides scholarships to support students in pursuing careers in the construction industry. Three scholarships are available: one for four-year degree students in fields like engineering and architecture, another for two-year students in trades like carpentry and plumbing, and a third for apprentices needing tools and safety equipment. Award amounts range from $1,000 to $3,000, promoting education and skill development in the local workforce.

About NCTM

Founded in 1920, the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) is the world's largest mathematics education organization.

Mission Statement

The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics advocates for high-quality mathematics teaching and learning for each and every student.

Designing Interventions that Support Learners with Disabilities (2-8)

The MET Fund sponsors this grant to support the development of engaging interventions for students with disabilities in grades 2-8. This grant encourages the implementation of interventions that develop 2 - 8 students’ conceptual understanding and expand mathematical fluency.

Purpose

This grant supports elementary teachers in designing, implementing, and sharing engaging hands-on interventions to support students’ conceptual understanding of mathematical concepts. This grant is specifically intended to support teachers of students who have disabilities. This grant could be used to fund materials, such as manipulatives. The expectation is that the recipient of the grant would share their interventions with other teachers and interventionists in their school/district, and beyond.

Award Type: Organizational

For MET grants, an organization is defined as a school, school district, university, or non-profit mathematics education organization. The primary applicant will indicate an organization to administer the finances of the grant when applying for the grant. The primary applicant MAY choose to administer the finances of the grant themselves; if so, they are responsible for reporting this award to the IRS on their personal tax return as income.

Mission & Vision

Rochester Area Community Foundation, in partnership with generous philanthropists and community partners, works to improve the quality of life for people who live and work in the eight-county region through its leadership and strategic grantmaking.

Our Mission:

We are cultivating a thriving Greater Rochester region — powered by philanthropy, grounded in community, and sustained across generations.

Our Vision:

We envision a Greater Rochester region transformed by enduring philanthropy, where every person, neighborhood, and future generation can thrive.

Jennifer Grimes Lindley Scholarship

Purpose of Scholarship

The Jennifer Grimes Lindley Scholarship recognizes and awards young women residing in Monroe and Yates counties who intend to continue education beyond high school, preferably in the field of engineering.

Number and Size of Awards

Two awards of $1,000 each to both a Monroe County and a Yates County recipient, plus a four-year student membership to the American Association of University Women (AAUW). Award paid in one lump sum in the Fall.

Donor Information

This scholarship was established by the Lindley family in memory of their daughter, Jennifer Grimes Lindley. Jennifer was a very bright student who eventually obtained her electrical engineering degree in her mid-30s. This scholarship recognizes those women who choose to continue their education in the field of engineering and science.

The Community Engagement Grant, offered by the First Responders Children's Foundation, aims to strengthen relationships between first responders and youth in their communities. By funding programs that promote mental health, youth education, family support, and emergency assistance, the grant helps foster trust and understanding. This initiative not only benefits first responders and their families but also inspires future generations to consider careers in public service. Together, we can build safer and healthier communities.

The Bernice Carver Scholarship of Hope, established by the family of Don and Barbara Frey, honors the legacy of Bernice Carver, a dedicated educator. This scholarship supports Whitley County seniors from Columbia City, Churubusco, or Whitko High School who have a minimum 2.2 GPA and aspire to careers in nursing, teaching, or science. Emphasizing good citizenship and a quest for knowledge, the scholarship reflects Miss Carver's admirable character and commitment to education.

The Rachel’s Network Catalyst Award is an impactful initiative aimed at supporting mid-career women of color in environmental leadership. This award provides recipients with a personal grant of $15,000 and, if applicable, an organizational grant of $10,000. It also offers essential leadership services and public recognition, fostering a community of empowered women dedicated to creating a healthier and more just world. The award exemplifies Rachel’s Network’s commitment to environmental advocacy and the promotion of women as leaders.

About Us

Our Vision

Rachel’s Network envisions a healthy, thriving, and just world where all people enjoy a life of dignity and well-being in harmony with nature.

Our Mission

Rachel’s Network is a community of women at the intersection of environmental advocacy, philanthropy, and leadership. Our mission is to promote women as impassioned leaders and agents of change dedicated to the stewardship of the earth.

Rachel’s Network Catalyst Award

The Rachel’s Network Catalyst Award celebrates mid-career women of color who are building a healthier, safer, and more just world.

About the Award

Each year, the Rachel’s Network Catalyst Award provides women environmental leaders of color with personal ($15,000) and organizational ($10,000, if applicable) grants, wraparound leadership services, and public recognition.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

Cynthia Chapman Memorial Scholarship

Cynthia Chapman was a renowned pianist who was dedicated to the pursuit of science and education. She devoted much of her life developing educational videos for Encyclopedia Britannica. This scholarship is in honor of her exceptional accomplishments and career.

The Cynthia Chapman Memorial Scholarship is designed for students who have a background in music (such as playing an instrument, choir, band, etc.) and who are pursuing a degree in a science related field. This scholarship is for graduating high school seniors from Northern Nevada, with a preference for those from Eureka County. This is a one-time award of up to $2,000.

The Zur Hausen Scholarship, established in 2020 by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, supports students pursuing degrees in Engineering or Agriculture. This scholarship honors Edith and Elmar zur Hausen, who emigrated from Germany and dedicated their lives to the Wenatchee Valley. Eligible applicants must be graduating seniors or graduates from Chelan or Douglas County, aiming to study at an accredited institution in the USA.

The Hierholzer-Fojtik Scholarship, established in 2006 by Frances Hierholzer, supports students pursuing a career in law. It is awarded to Grand Haven Area Public Schools graduates with demonstrated financial need. The scholarship offers a streamlined application process for all eligible foundation scholarships. Frances, inspired by her grandson's success with a GHACF scholarship, aims to give back to the community that helped him achieve his educational dreams.

The Brian Klinefelter Family Scholarship honors the legacy of Officer Brian Klinefelter, who served his community until his untimely death in 1996. This scholarship supports children of law enforcement, paramedics, and firefighters from specific counties in their pursuit of higher education. Awarded at $1,000, it aims to ensure that those in need can access educational opportunities, thereby fostering a culture of philanthropy and community support in the regions served by CommunityGiving.

The Health Equity Data Access Program (HEDAP) offers funding for six seats in the CMS Virtual Research Data Center, enabling researchers to access critical CMS data for minority health research. Focused on various health topics, HEDAP aims to tackle health disparities among underserved populations, including racial and ethnic minorities and individuals affected by poverty. The program encourages innovative research methods and intersectional approaches, enhancing researchers' capacity to utilize CMS data effectively while providing actionable insights for stakeholders.

The Sartell Police Association and Brian Klinefelter Law Enforcement Scholarship honors the legacy of Officer Brian Klinefelter, who served his community until his untimely death in 1996. This scholarship supports high school seniors pursuing law enforcement careers, particularly from Stearns, Benton, Morrison, Douglas, Meeker, or Sherburne County. By offering a $500 scholarship, the program aims to empower the next generation of public safety professionals, ensuring they have the resources needed to succeed in their higher education endeavors.

The AESEF Genelec Mike Chafee Audio Pioneering Scholarship supports exceptional women pursuing graduate studies in audio engineering. Named in honor of Michael Chafee, a significant figure in audio innovation, this scholarship aims to empower women in a traditionally male-dominated field. Grants typically range from $2,000 to $5,000 and are awarded based on academic merit and commitment to audio engineering. Payment is made directly to the student’s graduate school, facilitating a smoother educational journey.

The BJA FY25 Byrne State Crisis Intervention Formula Program aims to enhance state crisis intervention court proceedings and related initiatives, addressing critical public safety challenges. Funded by the US Department of Justice, this program supports mental health courts, drug courts, and extreme risk protection order programs, ensuring that only state governments can apply. The initiative is part of a broader effort to uphold civil rights and combat issues such as violent crime and human trafficking.

The Reid Sasnett Memorial Scholarship Endowment supports graduating seniors from Pungo Christian Academy and Beaufort County high schools pursuing higher education. This scholarship aims to aid students who exhibit strong character, leadership, and community service, especially those passionate about agriculture and wildlife. Applications open on Dec. 16, 2025, and close on March 3, 2026, with preference for volunteer firefighters and Pungo Academy alumni.

The Ruby A. Trivette Ruritan Scholarship, administered by the North Carolina Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Ashe and Watauga counties in North Carolina. Eligible applicants must reside in Todd or be active members or children of active members of the Todd Ruritan Club. This scholarship opens for applications on December 16, 2025, and closes on March 3, 2026, providing crucial financial assistance for students pursuing higher education.

The Peter S. Slomianyj Scholarship Fund offers financial assistance to Subway employees and their children who meet specific eligibility criteria, including a minimum of 500 work hours over the past year and a GPA of 2.0 in high school or 2.5 in college. Applications for this scholarship will be open from December 16, 2025, to March 3, 2026. It is part of a broader initiative by the North Carolina Community Foundation to support students pursuing education at various institutions.

The Elsie Beavers Carver and E. Lois Carver Educational Fund Grant supports K-12 educational programs in Horry and Georgetown Counties. It aims to enhance children's learning experiences in core subjects such as language arts, math, and the arts. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. The fund provides resources for equipment, supplies, and special projects, ensuring that no qualified individual is excluded from participation based on various factors.

The John Taylor Babbitt Foundation offers grants to support nonprofit organizations in preventing sudden cardiac death through initiatives such as acquiring AEDs and providing CPR training. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and should include a detailed estimate of funding needs and commitments. The foundation emphasizes timely use of funds and adherence to safety regulations, ensuring a positive impact on diverse populations, including student athletes and vulnerable groups.

The Bertha Sawyer Meiggs & Winfred B. Meiggs Sr. Family Scholarship supports graduating seniors from Camden, Gates, Pasquotank, and Perquimans counties, with a preference for Camden County residents. Eligible candidates must demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership skills, and community involvement while enrolling full-time in a two- or four-year college. The scholarship may be renewed at the discretion of the Scholarship Committee, subject to academic criteria and available funds.

The Robert E. Barnhill, Sr. Scholarship Fund provides financial support for North Carolina high school seniors who plan to attend a four-year college or university as full-time students. Eligible applicants are evaluated on leadership potential, community involvement, academic achievement, and financial need. The scholarship may be renewed for up to three additional years, contingent upon maintaining a 2.0 GPA and continuous enrollment. Applications open on December 16, 2025, and close on March 3, 2026.

The RAK Education Foundation Scholarship provides financial assistance to residents of Camden, Chowan, Gates, Pasquotank, or Perquimans Counties who have earned a high school diploma or GED. This scholarship supports students pursuing degrees or certificates in Career and Technical Education fields such as trade education, computer science, business, health science, and more. Applications open on December 16, 2025, and close on March 3, 2026, encouraging eligible students to apply.

The National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) is launching a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) aimed at enhancing genomic research through the development and distribution of high-value resources. This initiative encourages collaborative efforts in genomic resource development and the integration of data science in clinical applications. While applications are not currently being accepted, prospective applicants are urged to prepare meaningful collaborations and projects ahead of the formal solicitation.

The Sammy and Shirley Church Scholarship supports students from Ashe County, NC, including those graduating from the NC School of Science and Math. Eligible candidates must demonstrate academic excellence, physical vigor, and leadership in various activities. Financial need is considered but not the only criterion. Applications open on Dec. 16, 2025, and close on March 3, 2026. Ensure to meet specific eligibility requirements set by the donor for successful application.

The Innovation Grants to Nurture Initial Translational Efforts (IGNITE) support the development of assays and screening processes to identify potential therapeutic agents for neurological disorders and non-opioid analgesics. Sponsored by the NIH, this initiative seeks to foster collaborations and projects that utilize innovative methodologies. Although applications are not currently being solicited, interested parties are encouraged to prepare meaningful proposals that align with the goals of the NIH Helping to End Addiction Long Term initiative.