Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits in South Carolina

The DoW Toxic Exposures Translational Research Award aims to foster translational research that bridges military-related toxic exposure studies and clinical applications. This program encourages innovative collaborations by allowing for a Partnering Principal Investigator Option, enhancing interdisciplinary partnerships. By integrating basic science with clinical insights, the initiative seeks to expedite the development of impactful health care products and interventions to address toxic exposures faced by military personnel.

The Juan Diego Guadiana Legacy Foundation Scholarship supports students from Las Cruces High School or Doña Ana County, especially those affected by cancer treatment or pursuing health-related fields. This scholarship is open to various backgrounds, including BiPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities. The foundation aims to empower students at different educational stages, ensuring they have the resources necessary to thrive in their academic and professional journeys.

About Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation

Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) emerged from the front yard lemonade stand of 4- year-old Alexandra “Alex” Scott, who was fighting cancer and wanted to raise money to find cures for all children with cancer. Her spirit and determination inspired others to support her cause, and when she passed away at the age of 8, she had raised $1 million. Since then, the Foundation bearing her name has evolved into a national fundraising movement. Today, ALSF is one of the leading funders of pediatric cancer research in the U.S. and Canada, funding research projects and providing programs to families affected by childhood cancer. ALSF is one of the only childhood cancer research organizations that has been given the NCI peer-reviewed funder designation for rigorous selection of research grants. The mission of ALSF is to change the lives of children with cancer through funding impactful research, raising awareness, supporting families, and empowering everyone to help cure childhood cancer.

Bio-Therapeutic Impact Award

The Bio-Therapeutic Impact Award accelerates the development of clinical trials for promising biologic approaches to treating childhood cancer. These approaches include, but are not limited to, immunotherapy, gene therapy and small molecules. The award, intended for investigators who are initiating clinical trials, totals the maximum of $1.8 million awarded over three years.

The IEN-WMAN Mini-Grant Program provides crucial financial support to Indigenous communities and grassroots organizations impacted by mining in the U.S. and Canada. With over $200,000 distributed annually in $4,000 grants, the program aims to address mining-related environmental and health issues. Priority is given to proposals that demonstrate a direct impact on affected communities, particularly Indigenous-led initiatives, ensuring that financial assistance is directed where it is most needed.

Samsung Solve For Tomorrow

The Samsung Solve for Tomorrow competition asks students to consider how science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) can be used to create change in their communities. With the help of their teachers, students compete to win up to $100,000 in prizes for their school, plus the opportunity to work with Samsung employees to develop their innovations. 

Guidelines

Your teacher will apply on behalf of your team by answering these five questions, each in 1,000 characters or less.

• Describe the community challenge or issue you are planning to tackle.
• How will STEM be applied to address this challenge or issue?
• What is the anticipated impact to your local community?
• What activities will you put in place to achieve your goals?
• How will you define and measure success?

Your solution may go through many iterations as you test and refine the idea, but the problem you are solving should remain the same throughout the competition. .

Once your teacher submits your team’s application, the fun begins! Get to work building your solution, gathering data, and iterating as you go. 

Helpful Tips

• Choose a problem that you and your classmates are truly passionate about solving.
• Pick a topic that's manageable for your team and realistic to execute within the bounds of the competition. Feasibility is included in the judges’ scoring rubric.
• Consider the audience you are developing a solution for and get their input as you work.
• Leverage your local community. See if you can connect with your town government or other leaders in your area to get them invested in and excited about your project.
• Remember to back up any claims with facts and statistics.

Reasons to get involved

• Prizes for your school range from $1,000 all the way up to $100,000.
• Community recognition: Samsung Solve for Tomorrow participants and winners are frequently featured in the local news.
• Build crucial skills in areas like public speaking, critical thinking, and entrepreneurship.
• Collaborate with your peers on a project you feel passionate about.
• Help your community become a better place with your innovative thinking.
• Through the Solve for Tomorrow competition, educators can teach Problem-Based Learning (PBL) by challenging students to find solutions in their communities. 

The Community Practice Innovation Award by the Rheumatology Research Foundation aims to foster innovative ideas from the rheumatology community that enhance practice implementation and sustainability. Grants, up to $80,000 for one year, support projects in quality improvement, implementation, and pilot studies. Recipients are expected to share findings with the broader community through presentations and disseminate tools developed with the funding. This initiative emphasizes improving patient care through effective collaboration and innovative practices.

The Marshall J. Schiff, MD, Memorial Fellow Research Award, established by the Rheumatology Research Foundation, aims to support exceptional scholarship in rheumatology. This award not only honors Dr. Schiff's legacy but also recognizes fellows presenting at ACR Convergence. Recipients receive a $1,500 award plus $1,000 for travel expenses, ensuring they can attend this crucial meeting, which showcases the latest advancements in rheumatic disease research and care.

The W. R. Grace Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations with 501(c)(3) status in the U.S. that focus on STEM education and basic needs like food and healthcare. Since its inception in 1961, the Foundation has contributed financial and volunteer resources to enhance community wellbeing, particularly in areas where Grace employees reside. They also match employee donations to accredited educational institutions, promoting civic engagement and support for local charities.

In 2020, GradGuard founded College Life Protected, LLC as a social purpose entity that supports programs, research, professional development, and best practices in higher education that promote greater confidence in the value of higher education as a public good. 

College Life Protected invites the higher education community to apply for grants that are consistent with our mission.

Promoting Financial Literacy

College Life Protected recognizes that that financial literacy is a critical skill for student success, impacting everything from academic persistence to long-term financial well-being. That’s why we are committed to funding programs and initiatives that equip students with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed financial decisions.

By supporting programs that enhance financial education, we aim to empower students to navigate college costs, manage personal finances, and build a strong financial future.

About Us

Who We Are

The National Federation of the Blind is the oldest and largest nationwide organization of blind Americans. Founded in 1940 and currently headquartered in Baltimore, the NFB consists of affiliates, chapters, and divisions in all fifty states, Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico.

What We Do

Through our network of blind members, we coordinate many programs, services, and resources to defend the rights of blind Americans, provide information and support to blind children and adults, and build a community that creates a future full of opportunities.

What We Believe

We are the only organization that believes in the full capacity of blind people and has the power to transform our dreams into reality. We believe in blind people because we are blind people—from our democratically elected leaders to our diverse nationwide membership.

Scholarship Program

Thanks to our generous partners, there are thirty $10,000 merit-based scholarships currently available. All scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic excellence, community service, and leadership. The finalists are announced every spring. They then attend our national convention in July when the winners of each individual scholarship are selected. 

NFB STEM Scholarship

The NFB STEM Scholarship is jointly supported by the Science and Engineering and Computer Science divisions, and it is awarded to a student studying in science, technology, engineering, mathematics or a related field. Members of these divisions wish to encourage the success of blind STEM students in their chosen field of study.

The Childhood Asthma in Urban Settings Clinical Research Network (CAUSE) aims to enhance asthma prevention and treatment in economically disadvantaged pediatric populations. Funded by the NIH, CAUSE supports multi-site clinical studies to identify innovative strategies and treatment targets for asthma. Utilizing systems biology, the network seeks to discover specific disease endotypes suitable for new therapeutic approaches, addressing the high burden of asthma in urban settings.

The John and Polly Sparks Early Career Grant, offered by the American Psychological Foundation, supports early career psychologists focused on research and intervention for serious emotional disturbances in children. This grant empowers researchers to develop scientifically-backed treatments that can be implemented broadly across the country, encouraging diverse applicants with a commitment to improving mental health outcomes for affected youth.

The FY26 Kidney Cancer Research Program's Idea Development Award supports innovative research that enhances understanding of kidney cancer, aimed at improving patient outcomes. Proposals should feature a strong hypothesis and a detailed research plan, with team members experienced in kidney cancer research. A unique aspect is the Partnering Principal Investigator option, fostering collaboration between two investigators, ensuring comprehensive project development while allowing for distinct submissions. This award emphasizes impactful partnerships to drive advancements in the field.

The DoW Kidney Cancer Early-Career Scholar Award is a unique initiative by the Academy of Kidney Cancer Investigators, established in FY19. It aims to foster innovative kidney cancer research through a mentoring program that pairs early-career scholars with experienced mentors. This program not only enhances research capabilities but also builds a robust network of kidney cancer researchers. By supporting promising scholars, the initiative aspires to advance the field and improve treatment outcomes for kidney cancer patients.

Angel Post Deployment Test Program

Through a collaborative partnership with UNCF, XYZ Corporation has established a scholarship program to help STEM students get on the fast track to a rewarding career. In addition to direct financial support, Intel-sponsored scholarships offer the benefits of exposure to potential job opportunities, networking with fellow scholars, insight to other Intel scholarships, research, training opportunities, and access to Intel mentors offering support on technical, non-technical, cultural, and dissertation-related needs.

The Remsberg-Trout Scholarship Fund supports local students pursuing STEM degrees. One scholarship assists a senior from Williamsport High School, while two additional scholarships are available for graduates from other Washington County public high schools. All applicants must be members of the National Honor Society. This initiative, part of the Community Foundation of Washington County, MD, aims to foster educational opportunities and enhance the community's future.

The Ryan Myers Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Washington County, MD, supports graduating seniors from various educational backgrounds in Washington County. This scholarship honors Ryan Myers' legacy, encouraging students pursuing higher education, trade schools, or apprenticeships. Ideal candidates reflect Ryan's positive spirit and aspirations, aiming to make a meaningful impact in their communities while achieving their academic and career goals.

The Polly W. Roesch Vocal Music Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln, supports graduating seniors from Sangamon County pursuing degrees in vocal music and performing arts. This scholarship reflects the foundation's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities in the region. Eligible candidates include high school seniors and college students who are direct descendants of U.S. Service Members residing in specific Illinois counties. This initiative aims to foster talent in the arts and provide financial assistance to deserving students.

The Great Lakes Bay Pride Scholarship, offered by the Saginaw Community Foundation, supports Michigan residents dedicated to promoting respect and acceptance across diverse backgrounds. This scholarship is open to high school seniors and college students pursuing undergraduate or Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, with awards ranging from $500 to $4,000. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and demonstrate commitment through volunteer work in the LGBTQ+ community.

The Holland Scholarship, established in honor of Merle Holland Leis Frenzel, aims to support aspiring music students from Saginaw County. Funded by her friends and former students, this scholarship encourages recipients to pursue their musical dreams while honoring the support of her parents, Norton and Virginia Holland. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, be seniors at Saginaw County public high schools, and be involved in music programs. Awards typically range from $500 to $4,000.

Improving Metastatic Prostate Cancer (mPCa) Care Through Innovative Strategies

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network® and Pfizer Global Medical Grants (Pfizer) are collaborating to offer a new grant opportunity seeking proposals for investigator-initiated research to improve mPCa care. Pfizer (hereafter, “Grantor”) is providing $1 Million in funding to support quality improvement studies to advance health care quality, the delivery of quality care, and improve health care provider performance in mPCa care. The Grantor will serve as the funding organization. Grants are available to all investigators from institutions within the United States. 

Aim

To promote the advancement of scientific knowledge, health care provider performance, and/or health care quality improvement focused on improving mPCa care.

A total of $1 Million is available to fund all projects. The intent is to fund 2-5 studies. There is a funding cap of $250,000 per study. Exceptional studies with budgets above this amount will be considered based on scientific merit and must contain a robust justification. All budgets must include line-item information and robust justification.

The Mech SS Carl C. Smith Graduate Student Award, established by the Society of Toxicology, honors Carl C. Smith's commitment to advancing graduate education in toxicology. This prestigious award encourages graduate students to submit outstanding abstracts for the 2026 SOT Annual Meeting. Eligible applicants must be graduate student members of SOT and PhD candidates who have passed their comprehensive exams. The award promotes diversity and inclusiveness in the field while recognizing exceptional contributions to toxicology.

The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) invites applications for the Superfund Hazardous Substance Research and Training Program (P42 Clinical Trial Optional). This program supports interdisciplinary research centers focused on biomedical and environmental science. Eligible institutions must be accredited higher education establishments. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time, and successful submissions will undergo a rigorous peer-review process to ensure quality and relevance in addressing hazardous substance issues.

The CAC/Robert L. Viera Community Service Scholarship, established in 1998, supports Saginaw County high school seniors pursuing higher education. This award assists students demonstrating financial need and recognizes those with special circumstances allowing part-time college enrollment. The scholarship honors Robert Viera's legacy of leadership in the minority and low-income communities, aiming to empower future leaders through education and community service. Awards typically range from $500 to $4,000, ensuring accessibility to higher education for deserving students.

The California Specialty Crop Multi-State Program, established by the California Department of Food and Agriculture, aims to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops through funding collaborative projects addressing key issues like food safety and marketing. Grants range from $250,000 to $1 million, supporting initiatives that span up to three years. This program emphasizes the importance of specialty crops, including fruits, vegetables, and horticulture, in California's agricultural landscape.

The Bernice Barlow NAACP Scholarship, awarded by the Saginaw Community Foundation, supports high school seniors pursuing higher education or vocational training. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 and be current members or children of members of the Saginaw NAACP Branch. This scholarship honors Bernice Barlow, a dedicated educator and NAACP leader, providing financial assistance to foster educational opportunities in the community. Awards typically range from $500 to $4,000, helping students achieve their career goals.

The Ruth Mitchell Hanson Scholarship is designed to support talented students from Saginaw County pursuing a career in music. Established in memory of Ruth Mitchell Hanson, a passionate composer and music instructor, this scholarship aims to honor her legacy and encourage future musicians. Eligible applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.25, be high school seniors, and be enrolled full-time in a music program at an accredited college or university. Awards typically range from $500 to $4,000.