Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits in South Carolina

The JFNY Grant for Japanese Studies provides up to $5,000 for U.S.-based organizations with 501(c)(3) status to promote Japanese Studies. This grant supports conferences, presentations, and research that enhances understanding of Japan. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis for online projects, while others must be submitted three months prior to the project start date. Preference is given to projects that secure additional funding from other sources.

The Inspire the Future Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region, aims to support graduating high school seniors from Calumet County who have experienced foster care. Eligible students must maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA and demonstrate a commitment to personal growth and academic success. This scholarship not only alleviates financial burdens for college or vocational training but also fosters a supportive community environment for those in need.

The McCarthey Dressman Education Foundation offers Academic Enrichment Grants to support innovative educational programs that enhance student learning for low-income children. These grants, up to $10,000 per year for two years, aim to foster creativity and critical thinking in K-12 education. Applications are accepted from educators at nonprofit organizations who engage with students directly. The initiative emphasizes collaboration and seeks projects that enrich academic experiences and inspire student curiosity.

The ACES Foundation Fund, managed by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, offers scholarships to high school seniors from Cumberland, Dauphin, or Perry County. Eligible students must pursue business-related studies or trades, demonstrate academic achievement with a minimum GPA of 2.5, and show commitment to community service. This initiative aims to support future entrepreneurs and enhance community development through educational funding.

The Conrad Siegel “Numbers Matter” Community Scholarship Fund, established by Conrad M. Siegel, Inc., supports underserved students in Central PA pursuing degrees in math, finance, and related fields. This initiative aims to enhance diversity in financial professions by alleviating the financial burden of higher education for students from minority backgrounds. The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, dedicated to strengthening local communities, manages this scholarship to empower the next generation of leaders in these disciplines.

The Harry N. and Melva A. Derickson Scholarship, managed by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, supports residents of Cumberland, Dauphin, and Perry Counties pursuing degrees in medical, dental, nursing, physical therapy, or engineering fields. This endowment aims to promote academic achievement and community service, with a preference for gender balance in award distribution. By investing in future healthcare professionals, the scholarship fosters educational advancement and strengthens local communities.

The Jack and Edna May Yost Scholarship, managed by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, supports graduating seniors from Dauphin or Cumberland counties pursuing higher education at accredited colleges. Priority is given to children of postal employees and those majoring in nursing or education. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5, demonstrate community service, and show financial need. This scholarship aims to empower students and promote educational equity in the community.

The U.S. Hillman Book Prize, awarded by the Sidney Hillman Foundation, honors exceptional journalism that serves the common good. Open to global journalists, it recognizes books published in English in the U.S. within the last year. Winners receive a $5,000 honorarium and a certificate at an annual ceremony in New York City. The foundation also promotes entries with a U.S. impact while continuing the SEIU Award for Reporting on Racial and Economic Justice.

Community Foundation: Central Blue Ridge

Proudly serving the independent cities of Staunton and Waynesboro and the counties of Augusta, Highland, and Nelson in Virginia.

Our Mission

To enrich the quality of life by responding to needs and inspiring philanthropy in our community.

Dr. Eric W. Bond Scholarship

About the Scholarship

The Dr. Eric W. Bond Scholarship Program was established by colleagues, the Augusta County School Board, and the Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge, to honor Dr. Eric W. Bond’s leadership and service to Augusta County Public Schools. In December 2025, Dr. Bond was surprised with the announcement during a School Board meeting — a testament to the deep respect and gratitude felt across the division.

The inaugural 2026 scholarship year will recognize three graduating seniors at each of the five Augusta County public high schools — a division-wide tribute to his dedication to students and families. The scholarship supports students who demonstrate financial need, meaningful service to their communities, and active participation in extracurricular activities — values long championed by Dr. Bond.

The program recognizes that success after high school takes many forms. In 2026, three scholarships will be awarded at each Augusta County public high school.

The Nathan Cummings Foundation offers Venture Grants to support social entrepreneurs with innovative solutions addressing inequality and climate change. These short-term grants aim to foster partnerships and expedite necessary funding. The foundation prioritizes projects aligned with its mission of advancing racial, economic, and environmental justice, focusing on systemic change through a holistic approach. Eligible applicants must demonstrate alignment with the foundation's values of diversity, equity, and inclusion to qualify for funding opportunities.

The U.S. Hillman Prize for Opinion and Analysis Journalism, awarded by the Sidney Hillman Foundation, recognizes outstanding journalism that serves the common good. Open to journalists globally, the prize honors works published or broadcast in English within the last year. Winners receive a $5,000 honorarium and a certificate at a ceremony in New York City. This prestigious award promotes impactful storytelling that resonates with a U.S. audience and champions social justice.

The Diane and Jeff Johnson Scholarship, established by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports Goshen residents pursuing higher education. With an average award of $3,500, this scholarship aims to ease the financial burden of education, allowing recipients to focus on their academic goals. Importantly, academic excellence is not a criterion for selection, ensuring accessibility for all qualified applicants. This initiative reflects NCCF's commitment to enhancing the quality of life in Northwest Connecticut through educational support.

The Torrington UNICO Scholarships, offered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, provide financial assistance to students in Northwest CT pursuing higher education. Available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents in the service area, these scholarships cater to graduating seniors and college students with various eligibility criteria. With over half a million dollars awarded, the foundation aims to enhance the educational opportunities for local students, reflecting its commitment to community support and development.

The NCI Continuing Umbrella of Research Experiences (CURE) Mentored Clinical Scientist Research Career Development Award (K08) aims to enhance the careers of clinical scientists committed to cancer research. This NIH-supported program provides protected time for research and encourages underrepresented individuals in health-related sciences. With deadlines spanning from 2025 to 2027, the program focuses on training and developing the skills necessary to compete for significant research funding and address health disparities in cancer research.

Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians

The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians is a sovereign nation and has three main branches of government – Judicial, Executive, and Legislative. One of our most important resources is our people.

Education

The Confederated Tribes of Siletz seeks to provide opportunities for Tribal members to reach potential, establish independence and improve quality of life through lifelong learning and education.

Pepsi – Craig Whitehead Scholarship

Pepsi, Inc. donates scholarship funds to the Siletz Tribe and has asked that this be the Pepsi-Craig Whitehead Scholarship in honor of Craig Whitehead, Tribal member and Pow-Wow Coordinator at the time of his death in 2004.

Craig was also the Tribal Whip Man for Pow-Wows, coordinated a dance troupe that visited schools and was the Peace Keeper for the Citizen’s Advisory Board (CAB). He was a dear friend and loved by all who knew him.

This scholarship is open to any field of study.

The Support Program for Translation and Publication on Japan offers financial assistance to overseas publishers for translating and publishing Japanese works. It covers part of costs incurred between April 1, 2026, and February 28, 2027, including translation fees and publication expenses. Eligible costs include paper, typesetting, and printing, but do not cover editing or copyright fees. The goal is to enhance global understanding of Japan through literature.

The Interventions to Reduce Sleep Health Disparities (R01) grant aims to fund non-pharmacological strategies that enhance sleep health and address disparities in sleep among affected populations. The program emphasizes innovative approaches to examine sleep as a crucial element in mitigating health disparities across various health outcomes. Deadlines for applications range from February 2025 to June 2027, supporting both standard and renewal submissions under the National Institutes of Health.

Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians

The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians is a sovereign nation and has three main branches of government – Judicial, Executive, and Legislative. One of our most important resources is our people.

Education

The Confederated Tribes of Siletz seeks to provide opportunities for Tribal members to reach potential, establish independence and improve quality of life through lifelong learning and education.

Full Circle Scholarship

For American Indian and Alaskan Native students pursuing under-graduate and graduate degrees from Tribal colleges, non-profit and accredited schools.

Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico

Mission: The Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico serves as a community resource, connects donors to needs, and supports charitable organizations in their work.

Scholarships

CFSNM offers scholarships that support students from all walks and stages of life in pursuing various avenues of their educational and professional journeys.

Applicants must be pursuing any avenue of higher education and/or professional certifications. This includes undergraduate, post-grad, vocational and more! Applicants must be actively enrolled as a student. Applicants in high school must be a graduating senior.

Aprendamos Juntos Scholarship

The purpose of this scholarship is to provide scholarships to NM resident, second-semester students working in one of the following; physical therapy, occupational therapy, board certified behavior analyst program

The Combined Pilot Research Grants by the Plastic Surgery Foundation and the American Association for Hand Surgery aim to promote innovative research in hand surgery and related fields. Grants of up to $15,000 are available for one-year pilot projects to help develop surgeon scientists and advance clinical practices. Applicants must be affiliated with U.S. or Canadian institutions and hold relevant qualifications. The initiative emphasizes funding projects that contribute to the scientific knowledge of hand surgery.

The Wexner Field Fellowship is a three-year program aimed at enhancing the leadership skills of Jewish professionals in North America. Participants engage in leadership institutes, receive personalized coaching, and gain access to professional development funds. This fellowship fosters a robust network of leaders committed to serving the Jewish community, encouraging a deeper understanding of its diversity and strengthening essential leadership competencies. Eligible candidates must be full-time employees at Jewish organizations with at least five years of relevant experience.

The Betsy & Ryan Colwell Mentorship Scholarships for Women in Thoracic Surgery support early-career female cardiothoracic surgeons by facilitating mentor relationships and networking opportunities at the WTS Annual Conference. Each scholarship, valued at $2,500, covers conference registration, lodging, and travel expenses. Two scholarships will be awarded annually starting in 2025, aiming to empower women in a specialty where they are underrepresented and help them navigate their challenging career path.

The Future of Work program by the Russell Sage Foundation investigates the decline in quality of low-wage jobs in the U.S. It explores factors such as outsourcing, immigration, union decline, and technological changes. Current research focuses on minimum wage impacts, offshoring effects, and job search behaviors influencing employment outcomes, particularly for women and minorities in the post-recession labor market. This grant aims to enhance understanding of these critical issues affecting low-education workers.

The Honors Propel Grant at Northeastern University empowers Honors students to embark on creative and impactful learning projects. With awards of up to $1,000 per student and a maximum of $3,000 for group projects, it encourages meaningful engagement and experiential learning. Recipients must present their findings in a 45-minute session to faculty and peers, fostering community and collaboration. This initiative enhances the undergraduate experience by supporting innovative student-driven initiatives.

The Honors Enrichment Travel Award (HETA) at Northeastern University supports students in attending domestic conferences, specifically targeting those with high financial need. This non-reimbursement award covers costs such as conference registration, hotel, and flights, up to $2000. Students are limited to one award per academic year and are encouraged to seek additional funding. Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis, with specific deadlines for submitting requests based on travel needs.

The Hearst Journalism Awards Program, established in 1960, supports journalism education by awarding scholarships to outstanding undergraduate students. With $700,000 available, this program includes competitions across writing, photojournalism, audio, television, and multimedia categories. Each participating university can submit two entries per competition, fostering excellence in journalism. The Hearst Foundation, a long-standing supporter of educational initiatives, underlines the importance of quality journalism and supports students actively engaged in media.

The Alaska Community Foundation

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives.

Scholarships at ACF

Each year, more than 60 scholarships are available to Alaska students—and it all starts with one simple application. With one login and one application, you’ll be considered for every scholarship you may be eligible for. Whether you’re taking your first step toward college, training for a career, or continuing your education, these scholarships are here to help carry you forward, backed by donors who believe in Alaska’s students and the futures they’re building. 

Barry Koch & Family Scholarship Fund

A fund supporting scholarships for track and field, or cross country high school student-athletes in Anchorage. The scholarships will be awarded to any region IV or Anchorage area high school seniors who apply to college or technical school.