Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in South Carolina

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 Leon Levine Foundation, established in 1980, focuses on enhancing the human condition through investments in education, healthcare, and human services in North and South Carolina. The foundation seeks nonprofits with proven leadership and sustainable financial plans. They aim to create pathways to self-sufficiency and promote lasting change. LOIs are accepted year-round, and grant recipients must support an inclusive environment free from discrimination.

South Arts, Inc. offers Professional Development Grants for Arts Organizations to enhance the skills and knowledge of Southern arts entities. These grants aim to support operational stability and growth, focusing on organizations with budgets of $500,000 or less. Eligible applicants include a range of arts organizations within South Arts' nine-state service area. The program emphasizes first-time opportunities and requires a dollar-for-dollar cash match, ensuring a commitment to professional development in the arts.

The Community Foundation for the CSRA offers funding to support charitable organizations in Georgia and South Carolina. With a focus on arts, education, health, and services for people in need, the foundation encourages innovative proposals. Grants may reach up to $15,000, supporting impactful community initiatives. Organizations must demonstrate long-term benefits and meet specific eligibility criteria, ensuring funds are used effectively to enhance community welfare and quality of life for residents.

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.

Grants

Through our grantmaking, we support nonprofits that serve South Carolina at local, regional and state levels to address root causes of poverty while honoring the dignity of every South Carolinian.

Starting in 2026, our grants focus primarily on systems change in the areas of

• economic mobility,
• housing security and
• health care (with health care systems change grants by invitation only).

By focusing our efforts and going deeper on these three issues, we aim to have an even greater impact on the nonprofits and communities we serve.

Systems Change Grants

Systems Change Grants fund organizations and coalitions that are working to change the policies, power structures and mindsets that cause and reinforce poverty in South Carolina. These grants specifically fund systems change that supports economic mobility and housing security.

Through these grants, we aim to generate a larger impact through more intentional funding, highly focused work and alignment across our Foundation’s activities.

What Systems Change Grants Support

• Organizations that are actively working on systems change that impacts people experiencing poverty and addresses economic mobility or housing security. To see how the Foundation defines these terms, visit our Strategic Plan webpage.
• Organizations that are seeking to change systems at the local, regional or state level. Systems Change Grants provide up to $75,000 annually for local or regional work.
  • State-level grants have a $100,000 maximum each year. 
• Organizations addressing systems change in at least one of the following ways:
  • Participating in advocacy and lobbying
    • Focus on changing policies, practices, processes, rules or laws
    • Impacting resource flows (i.e., reallocated and/or new funding streams)
    • Holding systems accountable to their intended purpose through the above as well as through litigation
  • Addressing unequal power
    • Focus on changing the distribution and dynamics of privilege, relationships and tradition
    • Organizing and building connections and coalitions that center community voices and perspectives
    • Civic engagement
  • Affirming the dignity of people experiencing poverty
    • Focus on changing the narrative around poverty
    • Focus on changing attitudes, mindsets, values, belief systems, norms, mental models and paradigms
  • Implementing big impact, scalable, or innovative solutions
    • Focus on changing results, especially for groups experiencing inequitable outcomes as a result of historic and current marginalization

All grants are for one year, with the possibility of renewal up to three years based on meeting reporting requirements and the availability of funding.

Truist Foundation

The Truist Foundation is committed to Truist Financial Corporation's (NYSE: TFC) purpose to inspire and build better lives and communities. Established in 2020, the foundation makes strategic investments in nonprofit organizations to help ensure the communities it serves have more opportunities for a better quality of life. The Truist Foundation's grants and activities focus on building career pathways to economic mobility and strengthening small businesses.

Inspire Awards

This year’s Inspire Awards seeks nonprofits supporting the career navigation and workforce development needs of workers across the United States. The challenge seeks applications that help individuals gain the skills, guidance, and support needed to access quality jobs, advance in their careers, and build long-term stability in an evolving world of work.

2026 Truist Foundation Inspire Awards Challenge Question

How are nonprofits providing innovative direct services, training programs, and career navigation supports for adult workers in the age of AI?

Challenge Dimensions

Nonprofit organizations have long been critical advocates and service providers for workers in the United States. Nonprofits provide workers necessary upskilling opportunities, AI literacy training, career navigation support, and wraparound services in conjunction with career pathways programming. All necessary for the modern workforce. Meeting the moment, Truist Foundation and MIT Solve want to hear the ways in which nonprofits headquartered in the Truist operating footprint are providing innovative career pathway programming in the age of AI. Although solutions don’t need to focus on generative AI specifically, teams should demonstrate how their career pathways programming align with the following dimensions:

• Training and Upskilling Programs – Providing holistic, accessible programming that equips workers with essential skills, industry-validated credentials, and technical literacy for the modern workplace.
• AI Readiness and Literacy – Offering high-quality training that helps workers understand generative AI and agentic technologies as augmented intelligence tools, helping to build practical skills like effective prompting, domain expertise application, and ethical use.
• Additional Wraparound Services and Basic Needs Support – Supporting unemployed and underemployed workers on their journey to economic mobility through comprehensive, integrated resources including childcare, transportation support, mentorship, mental health services, benefits navigation, and more.
• Career Navigation in the AI Economy – Enabling workers to navigate career choices with clarity and confidence by providing accessible information about how AI is reshaping job roles and industries, facilitating informed decisions about high-quality career trajectories that align with individual circumstances, and connecting workers to industry-validated credentials or trainings.

Here are the grants for this challenge

• First place: $250,000
• Second place: $150,000
• Runners-up: $25,000
• Audience favorite: $75,000

The Brown Family Foundation Grant aims to support small nonprofits in North and South Carolina, focusing on humanitarian efforts, education, and community improvement. With grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $50,000, the Foundation seeks to fund initiatives that demonstrate clear impact and sustainability. The Foundation prioritizes organizations that align with its mission and values, emphasizing collaboration and evidence-based practices. It does not fund individuals or certain types of organizations, ensuring that aid is directed effectively to those in need.

South Arts, Inc. is offering Accessibility Grants of up to $2,500 to nonprofit organizations in the Southeast to enhance accessibility in arts programs for individuals with disabilities. The grants aim to foster inclusivity by supporting projects that engage disabled artists and audiences. Organizations must be located within the South Arts Service region and focus on the arts. Priority will be given to new applicants and those serving BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities, with a commitment to rural areas.

The Baltimore Life Community Grants Program, established by the Baltimore Life Foundation, awards grants of up to $500 to nonprofit organizations in various states, including Maryland and Virginia. This initiative aims to enhance community quality of life through projects that focus on family safety and community enhancement. Eligible applicants must be IRS-certified 501(c)(3) organizations, with priority given to those with volunteer support. This program reflects Baltimore Life's commitment to corporate citizenship and community involvement.

The Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation, established in 2001, has awarded over $17.5 million to combat hunger in its operating areas. This foundation focuses on supporting children at risk of hunger and enhancing the capacity of feeding agencies to provide nutritious meals. They also emphasize nutrition education to mitigate health risks associated with hunger. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits located within 20 miles of a Food Lion store, with applications accepted annually.

The Berkeley Hall Charitable Foundation Grant supports local nonprofit organizations in Bluffton, South Carolina. Since 2008, the foundation has raised over $3.4 million to address basic human needs within the community. With a strong commitment to service, Berkeley Hall fosters a unique blend of private club sophistication and Southern hospitality, while ensuring that the community's most vulnerable members receive essential support through a rigorous grant application and evaluation process.

The CFCSRA: Women in Philanthropy Grant supports organizations that enhance the lives of women and children in Georgia and South Carolina. With over 200 members, the initiative funds high-impact projects while emphasizing collaboration and community engagement. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations or similar entities. The grant does not support individual grants, capital campaigns, or projects typically funded by government sources. This initiative aims to cultivate generosity and strengthen local nonprofits.

The American Honda Foundation provides programmatic support to nonprofit organizations and schools in the U.S., empowering impactful initiatives aligned with community needs. Funding opportunities are available through Honda corporate and Honda USA Foundation, focusing on projects that enhance education and community welfare. Eligible organizations must have nonprofit status or be recognized educational institutions. The application process opens each fall, with funding decisions announced the following spring, ensuring alignment with Honda's commitment to social responsibility.

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 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 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 Porter Fleming Foundation, established in 1963, aims to enrich the Greater Augusta community through educational, artistic, and cultural initiatives. With no maximum requesting amount, the foundation supports local 501(c)(3) organizations that advance learning and cultural life in the region. While grants are available for innovative projects, they are not intended for usual operating expenses or expenses covered by governmental funding. The foundation encourages community engagement and philanthropy to enhance quality of life.

The Healthy Harbors Fund, launched by Charleston Waterkeeper and the South Carolina Coastal Conservation League with support from Coastal Community Foundation, aims to enhance water quality in the Charleston Harbor area. The fund, bolstered by a $1 million settlement from a pollution lawsuit, will provide grants to local nonprofits focusing on critical issues such as plastics, bacteria, and climate resilience. This initiative encourages community engagement and aims to tackle pressing environmental challenges in the Lowcountry.

The Resilient and Connected Appalachians Grant Program, offered by The Nature Conservancy, provides up to $100,000 for projects that acquire land and easements throughout the Appalachian region. This program emphasizes equitable conservation, aiming to support historically marginalized communities and enhance access to nature while addressing climate change impacts. Projects must demonstrate community engagement and align with the program's goals to protect vital habitats and foster resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

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 BECU Foundation's People Helping People Awards honor exceptional nonprofit work in communities served by BECU. Each year, BECU members can nominate organizations for grants up to $50,000. Eligible nonprofits must be active 501(c)(3) organizations with a direct impact in Idaho, Oregon, South Carolina, or Washington. This initiative highlights the importance of community service and encourages members to recognize local heroes making a difference.

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 AmeriHealth Caritas Foundation Grant aims to prevent and mitigate adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) to promote healthier outcomes for children. With a focus on empowering families, healing behaviors, and access to healthcare, the foundation supports nonprofit organizations that provide comprehensive care and resources. Grants range from $100,000 to $250,000, totaling up to $1.945 million for project-specific initiatives. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits operating in states where AmeriHealth Caritas Medicaid markets exist.

The Northern Lowcountry Grants, specifically the Dorchester County Fund, is managed by the Coastal Community Foundation of South Carolina. Established in 2010, this fund aims to improve the quality of life for residents of Dorchester County by providing grants to various organizations. Eligible applicants include nonprofits dedicated to serving this community, and applications for general operational support are welcomed. The foundation is committed to fostering vibrant communities through strategic funding.

The Northern Lowcountry Grants: Giving Back to Berkeley County Fund, established in 2008 by the Coastal Community Foundation, aims to enhance the quality of life for residents in Berkeley County, South Carolina. This fund supports nonprofits across various fields, encouraging applications for general operating support. The foundation, active since 1974, is the largest community foundation in the state, managing over 700 funds and distributing millions in grants and scholarships each year.

The Beaufort Fund, established by the Coastal Community Foundation in 1998, supports nonprofits in Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, and Jasper counties. With over $11 million distributed, it offers three grant categories: Genesis Grants for strategic growth, Operational Grants for established nonprofits, and First-Time Grants for new applicants. Each category allows organizations to request specific funding amounts based on their needs, fostering community engagement and support.