Best Private Grants for Nonprofits in South Carolina

The FY26 Autism Research Program's Idea Development Award from the US DOD aims to support groundbreaking research that improves outcomes for Autistic individuals. This award encourages innovative, high-risk projects that can lead to significant advancements in autism research. Applications must address specific areas of interest or justify the importance of the research problem. A unique Partnering Principal Investigator option allows two researchers to collaborate on a single project, enhancing the potential for impactful discoveries.

The FY26 Autism Research Program Clinical Trial Award aims to rapidly implement clinical trials that significantly impact autism treatment and management. Projects may range from small proof-of-concept trials to large-scale studies assessing efficacy in relevant populations. Applications are encouraged to partner experienced and early-career investigators and must include community collaborations to enhance research impact. At least one community partner is required to provide ongoing consultation throughout the project.

The John and Evelyn Turnbull Nursing Education Fund, administered by the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, provides scholarships of up to $3,000 to residents of Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire Counties pursuing a Baccalaureate or Master’s degree in Nursing. This fund is aimed at supporting students from diverse backgrounds, ensuring access to education in nursing, and addressing the region's healthcare needs.

The United Advisory Scholarship Commission Scholarship, established in 1982 by William and Cordula Freese, supports students with visual or physical impairments in Saginaw County. This scholarship aims to aid those who are graduating high school seniors or currently enrolled in college, ensuring they can pursue higher education full-time. Preference may be given to previous recipients, reinforcing the foundation's commitment to supporting the community's unique needs.

The Dave and Lori Hermes Memorial Scholarship, established in 2008 in memory of a respected Erie County farmer, supports graduating seniors from Erie County, Ohio, who exhibit financial need and have an agricultural background. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and achieve a 25 ACT score. The scholarship prioritizes academic performance while encouraging community service, athletics, and work commitments, fostering a holistic approach to student development.

The Caplan Foundation for Early Childhood provides grants to support innovative projects aimed at improving the welfare of young children in the U.S. The foundation focuses on early childhood welfare, education, and parenting education, promoting safe environments and effective teaching methods. Grants are awarded to projects with significant potential impact on children's lives, emphasizing national application and interest. Eligibility requires 501(c)(3) status, while ineligibility includes funding for foreign programs and capital equipment.

The Council of Nephrology Nurses and Technicians (CNNT) Research Grant, funded by the National Kidney Foundation, offers $10,000 annually for research that enhances kidney disease management. Eligible applicants must be NKF-CNNT members with at least two years of nephrology experience. Research topics include social work interventions, patient education, and innovative treatment strategies aimed at improving patient outcomes and addressing health disparities in kidney care.

The Ewalt and Jocelyn Maurushat General Scholarship, established in 1995, aims to uplift Erie County, Ohio by supporting graduating seniors with a minimum GPA of 3.5 and an ACT score of 25. This scholarship is renewable for up to three additional years based on the discretion of the Scholarship Advisory Committee, ensuring continued educational support for deserving students who excel academically and contribute positively to their communities.

The Floyd Family Scholarship, established by the Erie County Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Erie County, Ohio, who aim to pursue degrees in music, music education, general education, or liberal arts. Preference is given to Huron High School graduates with a minimum GPA of 3.0. This scholarship can be renewed for up to three additional years, ensuring long-term educational support for deserving students.

The John and Clara Corogin Scholarship, offered by the Erie County Community Foundation, supports minority graduating seniors from any Erie County, Ohio high school. This scholarship emphasizes financial need and the desire for higher education rather than just academic achievements. It aims to empower students with leadership potential and realistic goals, helping them contribute positively to their community. Since 1995, the foundation has been dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Erie County.

The Madeleine Chapter 204, Order of the Eastern Star Scholarship supports graduating seniors from Erie County, Ohio high schools, emphasizing financial need and community service. With a minimum GPA of 3.0, this scholarship can be renewed for up to three additional years, subject to the Scholarship Advisory Committee's discretion. Preference is given to applicants from Vermilion High School, fostering local talent and community engagement.

The Home Study and Post-Release Services program, led by the Office of Refugee Resettlement, provides critical support for unaccompanied alien children in the U.S. It ensures safe placements with sponsors by conducting thorough home checks and offers ongoing assistance to help children adjust and thrive. This program is vital for the well-being of vulnerable youth navigating complex immigration processes, fostering healthy connections within the community and ensuring their safety during this transitional period.

The Samuel R. and Anna Barone Scholarship, established by the Erie County Community Foundation, supports Erie County, Ohio graduating seniors who are first-generation college-bound students. This scholarship aims to assist students demonstrating financial need and academic achievement, with a requirement of a minimum 3.0 GPA. Since 1995, the foundation has been committed to empowering local youth and enhancing community quality of life through education.

The Tommy Wells Foundation Grant supports youth aged 4-18 in music and hockey programs by providing financial assistance. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the Foundation raises funds to honor Tommy Wells' legacy. Organizations in the greater Nashville, TN area are preferred for funding. The TWF encourages applicants to request funds for those who will benefit most, ensuring accountability by requiring confirmation of fund usage within a year.

The Ruth Regina Halcli Memorial Scholarship, established by the Saginaw Community Foundation, honors a remarkable woman known for her strength and generosity. This scholarship aims to encourage individuals to give back to their community while pursuing their educational goals. Eligible applicants must be Saginaw County residents with a minimum 3.0 GPA, enrolled in high school or college, and pursuing various degrees, including Career and Technical Education. Awards typically range from $500 to $4,000.

The Peter C. Sotus, M.D. Scholarship is part of the Erie Community Foundation's initiative that awarded over $800,000 in scholarships in 2023 to support students pursuing post-secondary education. This scholarship targets high school seniors accepted into accredited institutions, focusing on careers in medicine or music. Preference is given to students born outside the US or children of non-US born parents. This award encourages diversity and support for aspiring professionals.

The Alma Gilmore Doud Memorial Scholarship honors a dedicated community servant from Saginaw. Established by the Saginaw Community Foundation, this scholarship supports students pursuing Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs or undergraduate degrees. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and reside in the Great Lakes Bay Region. Priority is given to members of the First Congregational Church. Awards typically range from $500 to $4,000, addressing the growing demand for skilled trades in today's workforce.

Scholarship amounts vary depending on the scholarship applied for. Applicants are encouraged to apply for as many awards as they are eligible to increase the likelihood of receiving one or more awards.

Scholarships can be used for cost of attendance, direct education expenses, including tuition, books, and/or other school-related fees.

If you receive an award, be sure to complete your scholarship acceptance form (online portal). Scholarship awards are paid directly to the academic institution by the end of August.

Bob Suddeth 4-H Scholarship Fund

The Bob Suddeth 4-H Scholarship supports DeKalb County graduating seniors who have been active in 4-H for at least six years, including their senior year of high school, and who plan to pursue agriculture-related education. Financial need is an important consideration, and students may attend any accredited trade school, college, or university. 

The Dr. Louis G. Economou Memorial Scholarship, established by the Saginaw Community Foundation, honors the legacy of Dr. Economou, a dedicated educator and community leader. This scholarship supports high school seniors in Saginaw County with a minimum GPA of 2.8 who demonstrate commitment to academics and extracurricular activities, particularly in varsity sports. Awards range from $500 to $4,000, aiming to assist students pursuing higher education or Career and Technical Education. The foundation emphasizes leadership, teamwork, and community service.

The 1Fur1 Foundation Grant supports U.S.-based 501(c)(3) charities that engage in animal-assisted programs. Eligible organizations can apply for grants ranging from $500 to $7,500 to support Animal Assisted Therapy, Activity, and Service Dog programs. The foundation focuses on charities that align with its mission and does not fund individual requests, for-profit businesses, or initiatives that promote animal cruelty. Applications are reviewed within 90 days.

The Future Energy Leaders Scholarship, offered by the Delaware Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Sussex County high schools pursuing two or four-year degrees. Awardees receive $2,500 annually for four years, contingent on maintaining enrollment and demonstrating financial need. With a record $850,000 awarded to 245 students for the 2024-2025 school year, this scholarship aims to expand educational opportunities and equity within the community.

The National Kidney Foundation's Young Investigator Research Grant supports clinical research on kidney disease. It aims to foster innovation in patient-oriented studies, including technology development and clinical trials. Eligible applicants are junior faculty in the U.S. who have completed nephrology training. The grant provides up to $35,000 for one year, with potential renewal. Funds cover research costs, salaries, and limited travel, while prohibiting indirect costs and patient care expenses.

The Emily Anne Dressler Memorial Scholarship, established in 1993 by the Saginaw Community Foundation, honors a remarkable young woman whose joyful spirit touched many lives. This scholarship aims to support high school seniors from Saginaw County pursuing their educational goals, particularly in Career and Technical Education (CTE) fields. With awards ranging from $500 to $4,000, it empowers students to achieve their dreams while tackling the growing demand for skilled trades in today's job market.

The AES Infrastructure Grant, offered by the American Epilepsy Society, provides up to $50,000 to support the development of national or international multicenter research programs. This funding is intended for organizational planning sessions, infrastructure development, and pilot projects, facilitating future investments from other organizations. These grants are available annually in the spring, enabling researchers to enhance their collaborative efforts.

Delaware Art & Design Scholarship

Awards:

• One time award of $20,000. Students may reapply each year.

The NIA Genetics of Alzheimer’s Disease Data Storage Site (NIAGADS) aims to create a secure, scalable cloud platform for genetic data related to Alzheimer’s disease. This initiative will enhance data accessibility, promote interoperability, and support rigorous research practices. By facilitating collaboration and providing robust analytical tools, the platform will maximize the scientific impact of AD/ADRD research, aligning with NIH goals for transparent and reproducible science, while addressing recommendations for broad access to high-value datasets.

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.

Edward A. and Shirley B. Livi Scholarship Fund

To support residents of Franklin, Hampden and Hampshire Counties who are pursuing fine or performing arts beyond their college freshman year.

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.