Best Seed Grants for Nonprofits in South Carolina

Power:Ed offers grants ranging from $25,000 to $100,000 for initiatives benefiting South Carolina residents and students. The program focuses on supporting low-income, underserved, and first-generation students, improving access to college, and creating pathways to quality workforce opportunities. Applications are accepted year-round with quarterly reviews following set deadlines. Eligible organizations must be dedicated to enhancing education and career readiness for South Carolina's residents, while ineligible projects include Pre-K programs and routine operating expenses.

The Emerging Destination Marketing Grant Program supports the growth of South Carolina's tourism by providing funding to eligible non-profit organizations. With grants ranging from $100,000 to $200,000, matched 2 to 1 with private funds, this program aims to enhance out-of-state marketing efforts. Eligible applicants must demonstrate significant tourism marketing experience, focusing on generating new visitation and improving local quality of life. This initiative is crucial for bolstering South Carolina's economy through sustainable tourism development.

The Sports Tourism Advertising and Recruitment Grant aims to enhance South Carolina's tourism economy by financially assisting nonprofit organizations in recruiting new sporting events. This initiative not only generates immediate revenue through visitor spending but also promotes long-term tourism growth. With a 1:1 match up to $50,000 available for event-related costs, the grant encourages innovative sporting events that can significantly benefit local communities, creating a vibrant sports tourism landscape in the state.

The NFL Foundation Grassroots Program, in partnership with the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), aims to enhance the quality, safety, and accessibility of community football fields. With grants up to $250,000, this initiative addresses the critical lack of safe recreation spaces in low-income neighborhoods, ensuring children and adults have access to well-maintained facilities for gathering and exercise, ultimately fostering community health and well-being.

The Carolina Foundation for Jewish Seniors (CFJS) enhances the lives of Jewish seniors in the Carolinas by funding organizations that provide essential services and programs. In 2022, it supported 50 initiatives across 19 nonprofits, addressing health, wellness, and community engagement. CFJS prioritizes collaboration, measurable outcomes, and innovative solutions to combat social isolation among Jewish seniors, making it a unique and dedicated resource for improving their quality of life.

The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in South Carolina provide critical funding to assist eligible communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies that threaten safe drinking water availability. These grants, ranging up to $1 million, support various needs including construction of water sources and repairing distribution lines. This program aims to restore access to clean water in rural areas and promote environmental sustainability, thereby benefiting households and businesses affected by disasters.

Alzheimer’s Resource Coordination Center (ARCC)

Overview

The Alzheimer’s Resource Coordination Center (ARCC), located within the South Carolina Department on Aging, was established by state legislation in 1994. The Center’s goal is to serve as a statewide focal point for coordination, service development, information, and education to assist persons with ADRD and their families. The ARCC is guided by a Governor-appointed advisory council composed of representatives from state agencies, organizations, and caregivers who have a special interest in Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD). The advisory council aids the ARCC in meeting its goals of:  

• Initiating the development of systems which coordinate the delivery of programs and services
• Facilitating the coordination and integration of research, program development, planning, and quality assurance
• Identifying potential users of services and gaps in the service delivery system and expanding methods and resources to enhance statewide services
• Serving as a resource for education, research, and training and providing information and referral services
• Providing technical assistance for the development of support groups and other local initiatives to serve individuals, families, and caregivers
• Recommending public policy concerning Alzheimer's disease and related disorders to state policymakers
• Facilitating the coordination and integration of educational initiatives for healthcare providers on the importance and value of early detection and timely diagnosis of cognitive impairment, validated cognitive assessment tools, and increasing understanding and awareness of early warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia and how to reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

The ARCC is staffed by the Dementia Coordinator whose role is to monitor the state’s service delivery system and work closely with the ARCC Advisory Council to develop a coordinated state-wide delivery system that caters to the needs of persons with ADRD, their families, caregivers, and communities. Additionally, the Dementia Coordinator is responsible for submitting an annual report to the Chairman of the Medical Affairs Committee of the Senate and the Chairman of the Medical, Military, Public, and Municipal Affairs Committee of the House of Representatives on the activities of the ARCC.

ARCC Grants

Each year, the ARCC receives $150,000 to award dementia-specific grants to community organizations to support respite, education, and innovative programs for individuals living with Alzheimer’s and related dementias, their families, caregivers, and communities. Grants are awarded on a 2-year cycle through a competitive selection process. 

Since its establishment in 1995, the ARCC Grants Program has awarded over 388 grants to community organizations that provide services to individuals, families, and communities affected by dementia. These services include dementia-specific respite, adult day programs, and educational programs that support the medical community, colleges and universities, first responders, and the general public. The ARCC grants have enabled more than 7,717 individuals living with ADRD to access respite care services and provided education services to over 78,117 participants. Moreover, since 2021, ARCC grants have supported the implementation of 17 innovative programs. These programs include virtual training for family caregivers, in-home activities that promote sustainability and independence in daily living for those with dementia, and technology that helps locate and safely return those with dementia who may have wandered from home.

During the FY25 grant period (July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025), a total of 10 ARCC grants were awarded, providing services across 14 counties. 

The Connections to Care initiative aims to modernize and expand digital infrastructure across South Carolina’s rural healthcare ecosystem. This grant opportunity seeks proposals from eligible organizations to implement or enhance electronic health records (EHRs) and remote patient monitoring (RPM).

The Wellness Within Reach initiative aims to bring high-quality, face-to-face healthcare directly to rural South Carolina communities through mobile units, crisis response teams, and community-based care sites This grant opportunity seeks proposals from eligible organizations to strengthen South Carolina’s mobile crisis response and expand community care sites.

The EPSCoR Research Infrastructure Improvement-Focused Collaborations Program (RII-FEC) aims to enhance research capabilities in eligible jurisdictions by fostering partnerships among government, higher education, and industry. This program supports interdisciplinary teams of researchers to tackle significant challenges in STEM fields, promoting diversity and broadening participation. By integrating Minority-Serving Institutions and early-career faculty from underrepresented backgrounds, RII-FEC seeks to build sustainable STEM capacity and drive impactful discoveries across regions.

The SC AmeriCorps Formula Grant, funded by the United Way Association of South Carolina, provides financial support ranging from $140,000 to $400,000 for organizations to enhance their service capacity through AmeriCorps Members. These members receive living allowances, education awards, and health benefits while focusing on areas such as education, economic opportunity, and disaster services. Organizations must match 24% of project costs if they are new to grant funding.

The Connecting Joy Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to enhance the hospital experience for children battling illness through engaging gaming programs. This initiative supports children's hospitals and nonprofits by funding equipment, staffing, and connectivity, ensuring children can enjoy gaming at their bedside. With grants ranging from $25,000 to $150,000, the program focuses on offering joy and distraction, helping young patients cope with their hospital stays while facilitating connections with peers.

The Watson-Brown Foundation Grant supports organizations dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the South. It offers various types of grants, including for educational programming and historic preservation, with a focus on southern studies. Eligible recipients include public charities in the southeastern United States. The Foundation's Junior Board of Trustees also awards grants to preservation projects in east central Georgia, emphasizing youth engagement in cultural heritage.

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.

BackgroundThe South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism (SCPRT) administers the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) under the approval of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). This federally funded program receives its funding from a portion of federal gas taxes paid on fuel used in non-highway recreational vehicles. Funds can be spent on both Motorized and Nonmotorized recreational trail projects to construct new recreational trails, improve/maintain existing trails, develop/improve trailhead or trailside facilities and acquire trail corridors.

• Funding is provided by this program on a cost-reimbursement basis — the grant recipient must pay 100% of the cost of an item before submitting a reimbursement request for up to 80% of the eligible costs.
• Funds can be spent on both Motorized and Nonmotorized recreational trail projects — to construct new recreational trails, improve/maintain existing trails, develop/enhance trailhead or trailside facilities, and acquire trail corridors.
• Individual trail grants can range from a minimum of $10,000 ($12,500 would be the total project cost) to $100,000 maximum ($125,000—total project cost), except for Motorized projects.
• Motorized trail projects are not limited to $100,000 — these projects are eligible for the maximum amount of Motorized funding available.

Grant Priorities

Priorities for funding are based on the South Carolina State Trails Plan: Expanding the Experience, Trails for South Carolina (2002) and advice from South Carolina’s State Trails Advisory Committee. Projects will be evaluated in terms of their overall quality, need, public support, planning process; that adequate resources are available to execute the project; and that resources are available to adequately manage, maintain and operate the project after completion.

Private nonprofit organizations, local trail volunteer groups, and private operators of recreational facilities open to the public are encouraged to work with federal, state, and local government agencies to develop RTP grant applications. The State’s goal is long-term development and management of South Carolina Trails by fostering cooperative efforts among these groups. 

Arbor Rising Grant, established in 2010, is a NYC-based nonprofit providing unrestricted multi-year funding and capacity-building support to nonprofits focused on alleviating poverty. The grant process occurs every three years, with the next round in 2025 being invitation-only. Eligible organizations must demonstrate high potential and effective leadership, typically operating on a modest budget. Arbor Rising prioritizes applicants from the NYC metro area while expanding to cover the lower 48 US states.

The Philip L. Van Every Foundation provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations in North and South Carolina, focusing on education, healthcare, human services, and the arts. With a commitment to strengthen communities and support fiscal responsibility, the foundation aims to enhance lives through meaningful projects. Organizations must demonstrate a track record of success to be eligible for funding, which is generally awarded for special projects and capital needs.

The US Department of Health & Human Services announces a competitive funding opportunity for the Head Start/Early Head Start programs across various states. This initiative aims to enhance services for low-income families and children, promoting their social and economic well-being. With approximately $818.3 million available, the program seeks to expand access to quality early childhood education, thereby strengthening community stability and prosperity. Interested applicants can seek further information through the OHS Operations Center.

The National Sea Grant Law Center is inviting proposals for the Coastal Resilience Program to research laws and policies addressing coastal resilience challenges such as sea level rise and flooding. With a funding cap of $150,000 over two years, this initiative aims to assess the effectiveness of existing policies and promote informed decision-making in coastal management. Up to two projects will be selected for funding, supporting innovative solutions to enhance community resilience against environmental threats.

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 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 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 Norfolk Southern Corporate Giving: Thriving Communities Grant Program supports initiatives that promote sustainability, workforce development, and community resilience across a 22-state network. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, the program aims to foster economic development and ensure equal access to basic necessities. Eligible organizations include tax-exempt nonprofits, government entities, and public schools, emphasizing diversity and inclusion in their community-focused efforts.

The Honda USA Foundation provides funding to support mobility initiatives that empower individuals, particularly those facing disabilities, by removing barriers and expanding opportunities. Focused on sustainable change in underserved communities, the Foundation encourages applications for programs in education, infrastructure, and technology that align with its commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Eligible organizations must be based in the U.S. with appropriate tax-exempt status and can apply for multiple funding opportunities while adhering to specific eligibility criteria.

The Jolley Foundation Grant offers up to $100,000 to charitable organizations that are 501(c)(3) exempt and based in South Carolina. This grant aims to address poverty and discrimination through systemic solutions, capacity-building for nonprofits, and collaborative efforts. Priority is given to projects in arts, education, health, and human services, particularly those benefiting residents of Greenville County. Applicants must demonstrate financial sustainability for their programs.

The Tourism Advertising Grant Program, administered by the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism, aims to enhance tourism across the state by offering competitive matching grants. These funds support qualified partners in executing direct advertising strategies that promote tourism, with a focus on increasing visitor interest and spending. Eligible applicants include tourism organizations and local government entities. The program features various funding caps based on the type of event or destination, ensuring broad participation and impactful marketing initiatives.