Best Water Grants in South Carolina

South Carolina agricultural producers, forest landowners, Tribes, and water management entities seeking to improve water quality and conserve water resources can access funding through USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service’s Environmental Quality Incentives Program. EQIP provides technical and financial assistance for on-farm conservation practices that enhance soil health, reduce pollution, and protect freshwater and other natural resources on working lands.

State and local governments, private nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes in rural South Carolina can obtain funding for water and waste infrastructure, including drinking water, sewer, solid waste, and stormwater systems. USDA Rural Development also supports related costs like land, permits, engineering, and start-up operations for eligible projects in communities of 10,000 or fewer residents.

South Carolina agricultural and forest producers seeking support for water resource management and broader environmental stewardship can receive financial and technical assistance to enhance conservation on working lands. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service offers multi-year CSP contracts with annual payments of more than US $4,000 to improve soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat across entire operations.

South Carolina organizations managing watershed-based water projects can access funding through the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services to implement best management practices that reduce nonpoint source pollution. Projects must follow an SCDES-approved watershed plan meeting EPA’s nine elements, with at least 75% of federal funds for on-the-ground BMPs and a 40% non-federal match.

Individuals conducting innovative water quality and water environment research with practical applications in South Carolina can receive support to advance their work. With a mission to advance applied water research, Water Research Foundation provides a grant of up to US $100,000, performed in conjunction with a U.S.-based firm, university, or organization.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations across the U.S., including South Carolina, can seek $500 to $5,000 for water stewardship projects such as freshwater conservation, watershed protection, and climate-resilient water management. Focused on environmental stewardship, Bell's Brewery invites grassroots projects that strengthen ecosystem health, protect water resources for public health, and support frontline communities facing climate-related water risks.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and eligible schools working on environmental sustainability or water-focused projects in South Carolina can apply for grants supporting clean water, land, air, and biodiversity. Grants from Westinghouse help fund programs that preserve or restore water resources, enhance community safety, and promote STEM education within 50 miles of a Westinghouse site.

Nonprofits, local governments, Tribal and religious organizations in South Carolina working on freshwater conservation, water resource management, or basic health and human needs can apply for the Doree Taylor Charitable Foundation’s grants. Funding may support programs addressing clean water access, environmental stewardship, or health services for underserved communities, with a broader focus on organizations across Maine and occasionally nationwide.

Freshwater science researchers and professionals working on conservation, water resource management, or related ecology fields in South Carolina can apply for Society for Freshwater Science Fellows recognition, which includes US $2,000 in support. This international program honors sustained excellence in freshwater research, policy, or management, with nominations submitted by SFS members.

Undergraduate students interested in marine, coastal, estuarine, or water resource issues in South Carolina and beyond can access funding through the Doyle Undergraduate Fellowship, earning up to US $5,000 for a 10-week summer placement. Fellows work on fisheries, aquaculture, coastal ecosystems, and water resource management projects with mentoring and professional development.

U.S. nonprofit organizations working on land, water, and climate-related conservation, including freshwater conservation and water resource management in South Carolina, can apply for Doris Duke Foundation’s Environment Program funding; awards US $100,000 - US $1,000,000 for large-scale conservation, natural climate solutions, and equity-focused environmental initiatives. Projects must be submitted via letter of inquiry.

Corporations engaged in freshwater conservation and water resource management in South Carolina can be nominated for this annual achievement award recognizing major contributions to lake and watershed management. The North American Lake Management Society honors companies that advance information exchange, public awareness, professional practice, and research supporting healthy lake and reservoir ecosystems across North America.

Organizations or individuals engaged in freshwater conservation and lake management work in South Carolina may be eligible for recognition through the Secchi Disk Award, which honors significant contributions to the North American Lake Management Society’s goals. Grants from North American Lake Management Society help South Carolina water resource management advocates gain national visibility for their lake and watershed stewardship efforts.

Roy A. Hunt Foundation provides South Carolina water and environmental organizations with US $25,000 - US $75,000 for multi-state or national projects improving freshwater, coastal, and nearby oceanic water quality. Eligible U.S.-based initiatives may include applied research, education and outreach, project management, and policy-oriented innovations that address clean water, pollution, and broader environmental systems.

South Carolina water and watershed organizations can access funding through the Laird Norton Family Foundation for freshwater conservation and water resource management efforts. U.S.-based nonprofits working on watershed stewardship, environmental stewardship, and long-term social and ecological resilience may be eligible, with current watershed priorities in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and select Western U.S. locations.

Nonprofit organizations and public institutions working on freshwater conservation and water resource management in South Carolina can access funding through the Biophilia Foundation, which focuses its giving on U.S. projects. Grants from Biophilia Foundation help support ecosystem restoration, private land conservation, and restorative economies, with typical first-time awards ranging from US $5,000 - US $25,000.

The NACD Technical Assistance Grants program, in partnership with NRCS, has been enhancing conservation district support since 2018. By funding staff hires, it aims to improve service for agricultural producers and address conservation workload challenges. The initiative focuses on outreach, education, and civic engagement to empower local communities, promote sustainability, and support historically underserved producers in implementing conservation practices, thereby fostering both individual and community resilience.

The AWWA Scholarship Program, specifically the Veolia Water Technologies & Solutions Vernon D. Lucy III Scholarship, offers a $5000 award to undergraduate students pursuing careers in the water sector. Established by the American Water Works Association, this scholarship honors the mentorship of Vernon D. Lucy III and aims to support the next generation of water industry professionals. Eligible candidates must demonstrate interest in water-related fields, underscoring AWWA's commitment to fostering future leaders.

The Raftelis Leadership Scholarship, offered by the American Water Works Association, supports undergraduate and graduate students pursuing a consulting career in water utilities. With a value of $5,000, this scholarship aims to foster relationships with diverse, promising students who demonstrate leadership and strong academic performance. Applicants from various academic backgrounds, including business and finance, are encouraged to apply, emphasizing initiative and a desire to contribute positively to the community.

The AWWA Scholarships Program, led by the American Water Works Association, aims to support the future of the water industry by investing in students. The Mueller Water Products Continuing Education Scholarship awards $5,000 to an undergraduate student employed by a water utility, emphasizing the importance of practical experience in education. This scholarship not only aids financial needs but also encourages students to pursue careers in water supply, fostering growth in this vital sector.

The AWWA Scholarship Program, specifically the Woodard & Curran Scholarship, offers a $5,000 merit-based award annually to undergraduate or graduate students focused on water-related fields. This initiative aims to support historically marginalized communities, including women and BIPOC students, promoting equity in the water industry. With clean water being essential for community health, this scholarship reflects AWWA's commitment to nurturing the next generation of water professionals.

The AWWA Jacobs Holly A. Cornell Scholarship, established in 1990, supports graduate students pursuing water supply and treatment studies. Sponsored by Jacobs/CH2M, this $10,000 scholarship is aimed at first-generation college graduates or those who have faced economic disadvantages and significant educational barriers. AWWA, the largest organization of water supply professionals, emphasizes the importance of investing in the future of the water industry through such scholarships.

The AWWA Scholarship Program, specifically the Mueller HBCU Scholarship, supports undergraduate students from historically black colleges and universities pursuing careers in the water sector. Offered by the American Water Works Association (AWWA), this scholarship recognizes the vital role of future professionals in addressing water industry challenges. AWWA aims to invest in students who will contribute to sustainable water management and innovation within their communities.

The HDR One Water Institute Scholarship, offered by the American Water Works Association, provides $10,000 in funding to support graduate students pursuing degrees that will lead to careers as consultants in the water industry. This initiative highlights the importance of investing in future water professionals and fostering innovative research to address pressing water challenges.

The AWWA Hazen Scholarship supports graduate-level candidates dedicated to improving water quality and resources. Awarded by the American Water Works Association, this scholarship aims to empower future leaders in the water industry. Candidates must demonstrate commitment to addressing critical challenges in drinking water, water reuse, and sustainable practices. This initiative reflects AWWA's mission to invest in the next generation of water supply professionals, ensuring a sustainable future for water resources.

The AWWA Scholarship Program offers the GFT Forces of Change Scholarship, providing $5,000 to undergraduate or graduate engineering students passionate about advancing the water industry. This scholarship underscores AWWA's commitment to nurturing future professionals who will tackle critical infrastructure challenges. By investing in education, AWWA aims to empower the next generation to innovate and lead in water supply solutions. This initiative highlights the importance of skilled engineers in shaping a sustainable future.

The Clif Family Foundation Open Call invites 501(c)(3) organizations to apply for grants supporting general operating costs or specific projects. With a focus on regenerative farming, food worker health, climate justice, and food access, the foundation aims to empower grassroots initiatives. Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000, with applications reviewed twice a year. Deadlines are March 1 and August 1, and announcements occur about four months post-deadline.