Best Quality of Life Grants in South Carolina

The West-Gray Scholarship Fund, established in 2014, supports undergraduate and graduate students in applied geology who demonstrate academic excellence and are members of the Association of Environmental & Engineering Geologists. This fund aids students conducting field studies in environmental and engineering geology particularly in the eastern United States, fostering future professionals in the field.

The Pershing Square Sohn Cancer Prize is awarded to early-career scientists in the New York area who are pursuing innovative cancer research. Established by the Pershing Square Foundation in partnership with The Sohn Conference Foundation, the prize offers $250,000 annually for up to three years. With a commitment of over $49 million since 2013, the Alliance aims to accelerate cancer cures by fostering collaborations between academia and industry, providing a unique network and access to vital resources for groundbreaking research.

The Craig H. Neilsen Foundation's Creating Opportunity & Independence Grant supports programs and research that enhance the quality of life for individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI). It welcomes applications from nonprofit organizations and rehabilitation facilities in the U.S. and Canada, focusing on projects that foster independence, community participation, and capacity-building. Priority is given to initiatives that demonstrate broad impact and involve individuals with SCI, ensuring their needs and perspectives shape the proposed activities.

The Reeves Foundation supports research aimed at understanding and treating macular degeneration, a condition that has personally affected the founder's family. Established in 1997, the foundation allocates 50% of its grants to research and the other half to local charities in Columbus, Indiana. Nonprofit organizations exempt under IRS code 501(c)(3) are eligible to apply, but funds cannot be used for administrative costs. The foundation prioritizes equipment purchases and partnerships with other funding sources.

Through the generosity of donors to the Foundation Council, MNRS is able to offer nurse researchers grant opportunities to further their work and contribute to the profession of nursing science. The Foundation and Grants Committee urges you to apply for one of the grant opportunities offered solely to MNRS members. You must remain a member of MNRS for the entire duration of the grant process.MNRS/Sigma Research GrantThe purpose of The Midwest Nursing Research Society/Sigma Research Grant is to encourage qualified nurses to contribute to the advancement of nursing through research; proposals for pilot and/or developmental research may be submitted. All research topics and designs are eligible for support. Multidisciplinary, historical, and international research is encouraged.Funds for this grant do not cover expenses incurred prior to the funding date.

About Richard Picken Memorial GrantEstablished in memory of the late Richard Picken by his loved ones, the Richard Picken Memorial Grants from the Fund of the same name are established to fund the intensive training of riders aged 25 years and younger competing at the FEI CCI2* level or higher. Further information may be collected by the Review Committee in advance of the grant announcement made at the USEA Annual Meeting and Convention. 

The Alcon Foundation Grant aims to enhance eye care services and improve patient access, with a focus on educational and training programs. The foundation also supports cultural and community development initiatives that uplift the quality of life in areas where Alcon operates, including cities like Fort Worth, Houston, and Irvine. However, it does not fund non-501(c)(3) organizations, athletic leagues, or fundraising events, among other exclusions.

The Jordan Fund, established by John & Kelly Olerud in 2003, is dedicated to supporting children with special needs and their families. This grant-making organization assists children with substantial disabilities up to age twenty-one, covering costs for respite, therapy, and essential equipment not provided by insurance. By funding 501(c)(3) organizations, the Jordan Fund aims to enhance the quality of life for these children and their families.

The Social Impact Partnerships to Pay for Results Act (SIPPRA) by the U.S. Department of the Treasury aims to enhance social service effectiveness through innovative funding strategies. Established in 2018, SIPPRA encourages state and local governments to apply for awards that redirect funds from ineffective programs to those that yield measurable outcomes. By promoting public-private partnerships and performance-based funding, SIPPRA seeks to address critical social issues and improve the lives of families and individuals in need.

Arnold Ventures

Overview

Arnold Ventures (AV) is a philanthropy dedicated to improving the lives of Americans through evidence-based policy solutions that maximize opportunity and minimize injustice. We focus on improving systems where outcomes are falling short, incentives are misaligned, and the time is right for change.

To advance this mission, we invest in rigorous research to better understand the root causes of problems and strengthen the evidence base on what works to solve them. Using this evidence, we advocate for policy reforms and help build durable, bipartisan coalitions for lasting change.

Request for Proposals

Causal Research on the Impacts of K-12 School Policies 

The next several years present an important opportunity to shape the future of state K-12 education policy. States are making consequential decisions about curriculum, assessment, and accountability systems; school choice and governance policies; and teacher and leader workforce policies. High-quality research in these areas will help policymakers distinguish between reforms that are merely appealing and those that meaningfully improve student outcomes over the long term.

Through this request for proposals (RFP), Arnold Ventures seeks to support research studies that estimate the causal effects of actionable, politically viable U.S. K-12 education policies that can be influenced at the state level and have the potential to improve outcomes at scale. Competitive proposals should employ rigorous causal research methods and, where feasible, examine not only short-term educational outcomes but also longer-term impacts on postsecondary and/or labor market outcomes using administrative data. Given the pace of state policymaking, we place a high value on research that can inform decisions quickly and will give preference to studies that can be completed within 18 months of project kickoff and/or produce actionable findings by the end of 2028.

The Crossroads Hospice Charitable Foundation is committed to enhancing community awareness of hospice and palliative care services. It supports nonprofit organizations that provide end-of-life care and grief recovery resources. Through educational initiatives and financial grants, the Foundation aims to promote excellent hospice care and assist caregivers. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits, and the Foundation does not fund administrative costs or general funding. Grant applications are accepted once per year.

The Space Technology Research Institutes program, part of NASA's SpaceTech REDDI initiative for FY 2026, aims to advance innovative space technologies that meet critical needs. By encouraging collaboration among entrepreneurs, researchers, and small businesses, it seeks to enhance U.S. competitiveness in the global space landscape while fostering economic growth in the expanding space economy. This initiative supports future NASA and commercial missions through transformative research and development.

The National Endowment for Financial Education Grant supports innovative research aimed at enhancing the public's financial well-being. This grant prioritizes studies that address financial literacy, systemic inequality, and the effectiveness of financial education among U.S. youth. Eligible applicants include researchers from nonprofit organizations or educational institutions. The funding process involves multiple phases, including evaluations and proposals, ensuring that impactful projects receive necessary support. NEFE aims to foster rigorous research that contributes significantly to financial education.

The Wish You Well Foundation Grant supports U.S. non-profit organizations focused on adult literacy. Grants typically range from $200 to $10,000 and require proof of 501(c)(3) status. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster adult and family literacy. Organizations are encouraged to apply for funding that aligns with their specific needs. The Foundation communicates via email regarding proposal receipt and funding decisions, ensuring timely updates to applicants.

The Aaaron Ardoin Foundation offers Research and Education Grants aimed at supporting organizations that address the needs of individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease. With a focus on funding programs that advance awareness, treatment, and care, the foundation reviews grant requests biannually. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations dedicated to initiatives directly benefiting the sickle cell community, ensuring that funds are utilized efficiently and effectively.

The Chaim Schwartz Foundation Grant supports initiatives that preserve and enrich Yiddish language, culture, theater, and art. Established in memory of Sandra Schwartz Tangri, the foundation aims to continue the rich social justice heritage of Yiddishkeit. Proposals can be project-specific or for general support, with grant amounts ranging from $500 to $5,000, and the application process is designed to be straightforward for non-profit organizations.

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

WRF was formed in 2018 through the integration of three highly respected research collaboratives: WateReuse Research Foundation, Water Environment Research Foundation, and Water Research Foundation. Separately, these organizations focused on research to support varied segments of the water sector—water reuse, wastewater and stormwater, and drinking water, respectively. Now a One Water organization, WRF delivers the research programming the sector needs to address the most pressing water issues holistically.

5425 - Assessing and Managing Manganese Behavior in Drinking Water Distribution and Premise Plumbing Systems

Grant Information

• Characterize spatial and temporal variability of manganese (Mn) concentrations and speciation in distribution systems and potential impacts in premise plumbing.
• Investigate Mn speciation and its influences on interactions with water chemistry, corrosion control treatment, and complexing agents, and assess implications for Mn occurrence, stability, and release in distribution systems and premise plumbing.
• Evaluate the relationships between Mn stability and release, including long-term legacy deposit mobilization, in relation to chemical, hydraulic, and biological processes in distribution systems.
• Evaluate strategies for mitigating Mn accumulation and release, including corrosion control treatments such as phosphate blends, and assess operational practices such as flushing and other system maintenance activities.
• Recommend monitoring strategies to identify system-specific risks, support detection of Mn accumulation, and inform responses to anticipated regulatory changes.

The Kevin Flanagan Student Travel Award offers up to $800 for undergraduate and graduate students pursuing diving science to attend AAUS scientific meetings. This competitive, merit-based award honors Kevin Flanagan's legacy in scientific diving and support for AAUS. Established in collaboration with his family, it aims to encourage the development of safe and effective scientific divers through education and research, while promoting standards in scientific diving practices.

The Fordney Foundation Grant supports talented individuals in dance, aiming to foster professional careers and enhance community engagement in dance sports. Established in 2002, the foundation offers financial assistance to young dancers (ages 6-25) and promotes ballroom dancing across diverse ethnic backgrounds. Its DanceStart Program aids families in supporting their children's dance education at competitive levels, emphasizing the importance of physical conditioning and personal expression through this art form.

The Elsa U. Pardee Foundation has been a pioneer in cancer research funding since 1944, providing over $110 million to more than 300 institutions across the U.S. It supports innovative approaches by both new and established researchers, ensuring diverse ideas receive necessary funding. Additionally, the Foundation addresses immediate financial needs for cancer patients, allocating about one-third of its grants to assist those in need. This dual focus on research and patient support distinguishes the Foundation in the fight against cancer.

About

Founded in 1971, the Mensa Foundation was established by members of American Mensa to extend the organization’s impact. While connected by a shared purpose, the Foundation operates independently, guided by its own Board of Trustees, strategic plan, and initiatives.

Awards

Mensa Foundation Prize

The Mensa Foundation Prize celebrates exceptional achievements that redefine our understanding of intelligence and creativity.

Awarded biennially, this distinguished honor highlights transformative scientific discoveries that elevate the understanding of intelligence.

Details

One of the most prestigious honors in the field, the Mensa Foundation Prize highlights exceptional contributions that elevate the understanding of intelligence.

Award Components

Criteria for Entry

The FWW Research Award supports innovative, short-term studies aimed at enhancing women's health, particularly in areas such as cardiovascular disease, female cancers, and hormonal impact on health. Eligible applicants include MDs and PhDs affiliated with accredited institutions. The program prioritizes research with direct clinical applications and seeks proposals that promise to attract additional funding for further study. Notably, sociological research is excluded from funding consideration.

The Retirement Research Foundation (RRF) offers Responsive Grants for advocacy projects that significantly impact older Americans. These grants support initiatives focused on critical policy issues like economic security and health care. RRF aims to fund projects that use strategic efforts to address systemic challenges and encourage partnerships for resource optimization. Organizations must ensure that RRF funds are not used for lobbying activities. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations targeting individuals aged 60 and older.

About

Founded in 1971, the Mensa Foundation was established by members of American Mensa to extend the organization’s impact. While connected by a shared purpose, the Foundation operates independently, guided by its own Board of Trustees, strategic plan, and initiatives.

Awards

Excellence in Research

The Mensa Foundation’s Awards for Excellence in Research recognize researchers who are building new knowledge in intelligence.

Presented annually, these awards honor exceptional work published in peer-reviewed journals or presented at professional conferences.

Details

A prestigious recognition in the field, the Awards for Excellence in Research celebrate innovative contributions that redefine how intelligence, giftedness, and related fields are studied and applied.

Award Components

Criteria for Entry

The David H. Smith Conservation Research Fellowship aims to enhance the skills of early-career conservation scientists through two years of applied research and mentorship. It supports global scientists at U.S. institutions, focusing on pressing conservation issues, and encourages collaboration with practitioners. The fellowship emphasizes cutting-edge research, leadership development, and practical applications in conservation biology, making it an excellent opportunity for those looking to bridge science and policy.

The Burn Injury Model System Centers aim to enhance burn rehabilitation through innovative research. These centers must create knowledge to improve the health, community engagement, and employment outcomes for individuals affected by burn injuries. Funded by US HHS's Administration for Community Living, grants support site-specific and collaborative research while contributing to a longitudinal database. Each grant has a maximum duration of 60 months, divided into five budget periods, ensuring comprehensive support for ongoing studies.

The Center on Knowledge Translation for Disability and Rehabilitation Research (KTDRR Center) aims to enhance the use of relevant disability and rehabilitation research through effective knowledge translation. Serving as a key resource for NIDILRR grantees and the general public, the KTDRR Center's initiatives will support high-quality research dissemination. The project spans 60 months, including five 12-month budget periods, ensuring ongoing support for researchers and stakeholders in the field.