Best Financial Assistance Grants in South Dakota

St. Ignace Area Community Foundation

The St. Ignace Area Community Foundation (SIACF) was established in 1995 by a group of concerned citizens who recognized a need and found access to some matching grant funds to enhance the initial contributions to the SIACF. Organized as a member of the Community Foundations of the Upper Peninsula (CFUP), Jack Swope, Fred Stearns, and Dr. A.D. (Don) McKinnon secured an anonymous contribution establishing the Education Enhancement Fund and a contribution from the local American Legion Post establishing the American Legion Fund as the initial Funds within SIACF.

Community Service Scholarship

The St. Ignace Community Fund annually awards scholarships assisting students with higher education based largely on acknowledgement of student responsibility, community service, and civic involvement. These Scholarships are made possible through the generosity of donors to the various accounts within the St. Ignace Area Community Fund. Some accounts specifically are awarded to recognize higher education in the areas of special education, teaching, law enforcement, and health care.  

The AWS Imagine Grant Program aims to empower U.S.-based nonprofit organizations by prioritizing technology in their projects. This initiative offers three award categories: The Pathfinder Award for innovative generative AI projects, the Go Further, Faster Award for cloud-based solutions, and the Momentum to Modernize Award for foundational tech projects. Each category provides significant financial support, AWS promotional credits, and implementation guidance to help nonprofits achieve their mission-driven goals.

The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) offers Program Development Grants to support the initiatives of SWE Organizations. These micro-grants range from a minimum of $250 to a maximum of $5,000 and are available in three application cycles. To qualify, organizations must be in good standing, and the event must occur at least 45 days post-application deadline. Active SWE membership for the event manager and treasurer is also required for grant submission.

Communities Foundation of Oklahoma

The Communities Foundation of Oklahoma stems from the vision of Tom McCasland Jr., and Gene Rainbolt. Two decades ago, these gentlemen formed a shared vision to create a single philanthropic organization to serve the charitable needs to rural communities across the great state of Oklahoma. Today, CFO has grown to assist hundreds of efforts in more than 45 counties.

Scholarship Opportunities

CFO offers over 100 diverse scholarship opportunities, empowering students across the state to pursue their educational goals. Each scholarship is tailored to meet unique needs, making higher education more accessible for all.

Tulsa Engineering Scholarship

Provides a $24,000 ($3,000/semester) scholarship to graduating seniors in the Tulsa-area pursuing an engineering degree with a minimum GPA of 3.2 and overall ACT score of 24 or higher, with a minimum math sub-score of 24.

DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation

Mission – The Foundation’s mission is to broaden awareness and understanding of agriculture through outreach and education.

Scholarships

The DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture is proud to offer numerous scholarships for high school seniors and college students. Preference will be given to applicants of Farm Bureau members or their children with certain eligibility requirements.

College Students Scholarships 

The DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation endeavors to recognize students for their academic, school and community performance while in college. The recognition is in the form of a scholarship to the student’s school of choice. The scholarship award will be sent directly to the recipient’s school to be applied toward college costs. 

Robert Morley Science Scholarship

This scholarship was established in memory of Robert Morley, a former DeKalb science teacher. The $2,000 scholarship is for juniors and seniors in college majoring in a field of science. Up to seven scholarships will be given.

The Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) aims to cultivate skilled clinician-scientist leaders to meet the nation's biomedical research demands. It supports domestic organizations in developing dual-degree training that integrates clinical and research education, leading to both a clinical degree (e.g., M.D., D.O.) and a Ph.D. Through comprehensive mentoring and career development, MSTP prepares trainees for impactful careers in health-related research, ensuring a robust pipeline of qualified scientists.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Urban League of Battle Creek Scholarship Fund

The Southwestern Michigan Urban League is an affiliate of the National Urban League, a historic civil rights organization dedicated to economic empowerment in order to elevate the standard of living in historically underserved urban communities. The NUL was founded in 1910 and is headquartered in New York City. The Southwestern Michigan Urban League, founded in 1966, is proud to support minority students from the Battle Creek Area who are actively involved in the community and pursuing their academic goals. This is one way in which the Urban League is working to support the dreams of our youth.

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Ken and Mary Beth Monnier Engineering Scholarship

Shelby County high school senior with a GPA of no less than 3.0, who is pursuing an ABET accredited Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering.

Selection based upon (in order of priority):

• Demonstrated community and school service, academic ability, financial need, and recommendations.

Awards

• Two $2,000 scholarships

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

The Waltman - Howard Scholarship Fund

The Waltman – Howard Scholarship Fund was established by Kevin Howard, a 2015 graduate of Harper Creek, in honor of Sharon Waltman’s distinguished teaching career at Harper Creek Community Schools. Mrs. Waltman was Kevin’s 4th-grade teacher at Beadle Lake Elementary. She has made a tremendous impact on his life as she has done for countless other students in our community. Since finishing a successful 4th-grade year, Kevin and Mrs. Waltman have maintained a friendship to this day. Mrs. Waltman’s class helped inspire Kevin’s career in social impact. Mrs. Waltman is within a few years of retirement and is excited to see where the next chapter takes her. This scholarship is intended to recognize and support a Harper Creek student who embodies Mrs. Waltman’s dedication to education and her commitment to making a positive impact in one’s community.

The Collaborative Program Grant for Multidisciplinary Teams, funded by the US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH), supports integrated teams of researchers tackling ambitious projects that individual efforts cannot achieve. This program promotes collaboration among experts with complementary skills, aiming for significant advancements in their fields. Teams are encouraged to pursue innovative objectives that have the potential to transform research landscapes.

The Convention Inclusion Travel Grant, provided by the Association for Slavic, East European, and Eurasian Studies (ASEEES), aims to promote diversity in the field of Slavic and East European studies. It supports BA, MA, and PhD students from diverse backgrounds to attend the ASEEES Annual Convention, fostering understanding of racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQ community members, and individuals with disabilities in Eastern Europe and Eurasia.

The Career Enhancement Fellowship, offered by Citizens & Scholars, supports junior faculty from diverse backgrounds in the humanities and humanistic social sciences. With stipends up to $35,000, funding for research, and travel support, this program nurtures academic diversity and enhances campus perspectives. Since 2001, over 400 fellows have advanced their careers while fostering a rich academic community. The fellowship promotes innovative scholarship and leadership roles, contributing to a more inclusive academic environment.

Beckley Area Foundation

Beckley Area Foundation was established in January 1985 by ten community-minded citizens. It began with a gift of $1.1 million from the Dr. Thomas Walker Memorial Health Foundation as “seed” money for this Raleigh County project. BAF assets have grown to over $70 million with over 500 different funds managed by our three trustee banks. Today, Beckley Area Foundation is one of West Virginia’s largest community foundations.

Since its inception, BAF has distributed over $23 million to charities and other worthy projects in the fields of education, public recreation, health & human services, the arts, animal services and beautification.

Scholarships

The Beckley Area Foundation proudly manages scholarship funds established by individuals, businesses, and organizations dedicated to helping students pursue higher education. Many of these scholarships are tailored for specific schools, fields of study, or graduates from local high schools, while others offer broader opportunities. No matter the path, our scholarships aim to support students from our region as they work toward achieving their educational goals.

Most of these scholarships must be awarded to students from our geographic area or at least preference given to such students. While the majority of scholarships benefit Raleigh County applicants there are others designated for Fayette, Summers, Webster, and Wyoming students. 

Appalachian Scholarship

High school graduate from Appalachian coal fields enrolling in an engineering program at a technical college or university such as Carnegie Mellon, Georgia Tech, MIT, Cal Tech, Colorado School of Mines, or the engineering schools of Virginia Tech and Texas A&M; Applicants planning to attend engineering schools not listed must contact the BAF office to determine if it is a donor approved program. The recipients are to be selected based on their academic potential.

This scholarship is renewable.

Beckley Area Foundation

Beckley Area Foundation was established in January 1985 by ten community-minded citizens. It began with a gift of $1.1 million from the Dr. Thomas Walker Memorial Health Foundation as “seed” money for this Raleigh County project. BAF assets have grown to over $70 million with over 500 different funds managed by our three trustee banks. Today, Beckley Area Foundation is one of West Virginia’s largest community foundations.

Since its inception, BAF has distributed over $23 million to charities and other worthy projects in the fields of education, public recreation, health & human services, the arts, animal services and beautification.

Scholarships

The Beckley Area Foundation proudly manages scholarship funds established by individuals, businesses, and organizations dedicated to helping students pursue higher education. Many of these scholarships are tailored for specific schools, fields of study, or graduates from local high schools, while others offer broader opportunities. No matter the path, our scholarships aim to support students from our region as they work toward achieving their educational goals.

Most of these scholarships must be awarded to students from our geographic area or at least preference given to such students. While the majority of scholarships benefit Raleigh County applicants there are others designated for Fayette, Summers, Webster, and Wyoming students. 

Brown Wesley Payne Fellowship Scholarship

Provides scholarship aid to disadvantaged and minority West Virginians who will attend law school to prepare for a legal practice in the State of West Virginia; Applicants must demonstrate outstanding contribution to organizations and programs in the human rights field.

This scholarship is not renewable.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) invites U.S. researchers to apply for Doctoral Dissertation Research Improvement Grants (DDRIGs) in Arctic Sciences. This initiative aims to support innovative research that enhances understanding of the Arctic's changing environment and cultural systems. The program seeks to foster early career scientists and strengthen STEM workforce development, while also promoting collaboration across federal and international partners to advance Arctic research and logistical capabilities.

The JSI Scholarship, provided by the Foundation for Rural Service, awards $5,000 to four high school seniors interested in science, math, medicine, or engineering. Sponsored by a member of NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association, recipients are encouraged to return to rural communities after graduation. This initiative aims to enhance rural life through education and support, promoting the development of future leaders in essential fields.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) is funding initiatives to enhance the value of scientific datasets through innovative artificial intelligence (AI) methods. This program aims to facilitate interdisciplinary research and unlock new insights by applying AI for feature extraction, metadata generation, and dataset integration. Proposals should ensure data security and promote collaboration with various sectors to advance AI-driven scientific discovery. By aligning with NSF priorities, researchers can contribute to cutting-edge science and technology for broader participation in STEM.

The Mary J. Mullarkey Scholarship, funded by The Denver Foundation, supports students of color, women, and LGBTQ+ individuals pursuing law degrees at accredited U.S. law schools. Eligible candidates must be graduating with an undergraduate degree from an accredited Colorado college or St. Norbert College, demonstrate financial need, and show academic excellence along with community contributions. One scholarship of up to $10,000 is awarded annually based on these criteria, promoting diversity in legal education.

Community Foundation of Carroll County

The Community Foundation of Carroll County, Inc. was established in 1994 to ensure financial support for Carroll County not-for-profit organizations. It is governed by a Board of Directors and is a 501c(3) public charity. The Community Foundation of Carroll County is trusted partner for donors and nonprofits. We provide one central place where anyone can create a charitable fund, support what matters most, and leave a legacy of lasting impact.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of Carroll County supports more than 75 scholarships. These scholarships vary in the amounts they award and cover a wide variety of student interests. Qualifiers range from academic achievements, sports played, and community service performed, to 4-H and FFA involvement. While the majority are for graduating Carroll County high school seniors, there are several for students in college or technical school, and even opportunities for students attending private primary school. 

Charles and Claudia Lewis STEM Scholarship

The Charles and Claudia Lewis STEM Scholarship was established in 2004 by his family. Mr. Lewis did not have the advantage of monetary funds for college but he strongly believed in the value of education. As a result, during his lifetime, he tried to provide that support to others to help them achieve their educational goals. The purpose of this Fund is to provide a scholarship for a graduating senior of a Carroll County, Maryland, High School who will pursue a college education in Engineering, who has a financial need, who has exhibited academic achievement, and who has demonstrated involvement in his or her community. The student must have been enrolled at a Carroll County High School for his or her entire junior and senior years. Students enrolled in Engineering courses at the Carroll Career and Technology Center will be given special consideration. 

Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors. Applications are accepted from mid-November until mid-March. Scholarship award recipients will be announced at the high school awards ceremony. 

Wyoming-Sullivan Counties Bar Association Scholarship

Established by the Bar Association of Wyoming and Sullivan Counties to provide college assistance to a High School graduate from those two counties who will major in the legal profession.

The Wyoming/Sullivan County Bar Association created its annual scholarship in 2020 to provide assistance to a deserving high school graduating from those two counties who plans on majoring in the areas of pre-law, criminal justice or sociology. The intent is to encourage the graduate to pursue a career in these fields and to return to their home county upon attaining their graduate or post-graduate degree in order to provide these needed services to their local community.

The Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) aims to cultivate a diverse group of physician-scientist leaders to address the nation's biomedical research needs. This program supports institutions in creating integrated dual-degree training that results in both medical and research doctorate degrees. By combining clinical practice with scientific research, MSTP graduates will advance health-related research, focusing on improving training effectiveness, alumni retention in research careers, and workforce diversity. NIGMS emphasizes comprehensive training elements for impactful careers.

The National Science Foundation's FINDERS FOUNDRY program fosters collaboration among K-12 educators, technologists, and researchers to address challenges in learning and workforce development. By creating innovative, evidence-based solutions, the program enhances educational outcomes and prepares students for a digital future driven by Artificial Intelligence (AI). It emphasizes early exposure to AI, encouraging partnerships across various sectors to co-design responsive, technology-based solutions. The program includes phases for planning and development, aligning with national priorities.

Stark Community Foundation

Since 1963, Stark Community Foundation has been helping individuals, families, businesses and nonprofits like you support the causes you care about.

In addition to personalized donor services, we manage a competitive grantmaking program and award grants to address local needs. Today, the Foundation stewards over 1,000 charitable funds totaling $485 million in assets and has granted more than $300 million to nonprofits in our community and beyond.

Scholarships

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties.

The Judge and Mrs. Robert D. Horowitz Legal Scholarship Fund

The Judge and Mrs. Robert D. Horowitz Legal Scholarship Fund was established to assist high school graduates in Stark, Columbiana, Carroll, Tuscarawas, Wayne or Holmes County, Ohio. 

This scholarship is renewable.

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Law Student Assistance Scholarship

Students entering their third year of law school (current second-year students approaching the third year).

Selection based upon:

• Financial need, above-average law school academic achievement, and demonstrated leadership in undergraduate and law school activities and in community, school, and church.

Awards

• Up to $3,500 in scholarships

The Luce/ACLS Collaborative Grant in China Studies offers up to $150,000 for innovative pilot activities aimed at addressing pressing challenges in China Studies over 12 to 18 months. The grant encourages collaborative proposals that enhance teaching resources, develop open-access materials, and promote professional development. Successful projects may lead to new networks, sustainability plans, or white papers. This initiative aims to foster transformative change within the academic community focused on China.

The Organizational Change in the Professional Formation of Engineers (ENGINEER:OC) initiative promotes innovative research and activities aimed at transforming engineering education and workforce development. Supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF), it seeks to enhance access to quality engineering programs across diverse institutions. Projects may involve implementing new curricular innovations or adapting existing models to different contexts, ultimately advancing the professional formation of engineers and fostering inclusive educational pathways.

The Professional Formation of Engineers (PFE) initiative aims to enhance the engineering workforce through integrated research and education. It focuses on developing ethical engineers who can adapt to a changing technical landscape. PFE supports diverse training contexts, including formal education, internships, and community experiences, ensuring clear pathways into the profession. This initiative fosters collaboration among engineers, technical workers, and communities, enhancing the skills needed for global competition and technological advancement.