Best Grants for 501(c)(3) in South Dakota

The Community Foundation proudly supports students in Portage and Waushara counties with over $325,000 in scholarships annually, thanks to the generosity of local individuals and families. Award amounts range from $500 to $40,000, opening doors to educational opportunities.

The Community Foundation provides scholarships for a wide range of students, including high school seniors, college students, non-traditional learners, and those pursuing specific fields of study.

Angie Sheldon Memorial Scholarship

Criteria for Selection:

• Seeking a degree from a four-year college or university and demonstrate financial need.

The Grossman-Sada Scholarship Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports full-time college students engaged in international exchange programs between Mexico and the U.S. This scholarship covers the cost of attendance for students pursuing a Bachelor's degree in any field. Since 1964, the foundation has played a vital role in enhancing community life through various grants and scholarships, emphasizing meaningful contributions for future generations.

The Gilbert W. Mead III Memorial Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports students from Southeastern Connecticut who show talent in the Arts and have financial need. Offering an award of $500, the scholarship aims to assist these students in pursuing their educational goals. Priority is given to those with physical limitations or disabilities, reinforcing the foundation's commitment to inclusive education since 1983.

The C.V.M. Scholarship Fund, established by Communities Foundation of Texas, offers up to $10,000 to graduates of Mildred Independent School District pursuing further education. Since 1953, CFT has collaborated with donors and nonprofits to uplift communities. Eligible candidates must have a GPA of 4.0 (out of 7.0) and meet SAT or ACT score requirements. This initiative aims to empower local students in their educational journeys.

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship. 

Skyla Credit Union Herman Hoose Scholarship

The Skyla Foundation is dedicated to partnering with and supporting the local community through annual scholarship awards to high school seniors in pursuit of continuing education.

Each May, Skyla awards $5,000 Herman Hoose Scholarships to deserving students who are graduating from high school in the current school year and enrolls in an institution of higher education for the fall of that same year.

Skyla is partnering with the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation on the 2025-2026 Herman Hoose Scholarship cycle. The application window is from now through February 1, 2026.

The Common Cents Scholarship, offered by the Communities Foundation of Texas, provides up to two $3,000 scholarships to Dallas ISD students involved in the Common Cents philanthropy program. This scholarship can be utilized for tuition, books, and fees at accredited colleges, universities, trade, or vocational schools across the U.S. Eligible applicants must be current Juniors or Seniors at a Dallas ISD High School and must have participated in the program during the application year.

The Rich Huntsman Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Muskingum County Community Foundation, aims to support high school seniors from the Muskingum Valley League or Muskingum County who have actively participated in bowling. Eligible applicants must demonstrate ongoing involvement in the sport during their senior year. This scholarship reflects the foundation's commitment to enhancing community quality of life through education and sports engagement.

The Berkshire Inspired Educational Fund, established by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, aims to assist BIPOC and economically disadvantaged students from Berkshire County, MA, facing emergency financial needs. Inspired by local traditions of supporting educational aspirations, the fund provides vital financial resources for college-related expenses, ensuring these students can achieve their academic goals. This initiative reflects the foundation's commitment to community empowerment and economic mobility, reinforcing their mission to foster equitable opportunities for all residents.

The Emma M. Kirchhofer Scholarship Fund, established by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, aims to empower graduating high school seniors from Columbia County to pursue their college education. Inspired by Emma's belief in personal growth and creativity through art, this scholarship encourages students to develop their talents in their chosen disciplines. With a commitment to community support and educational advancement, it reflects the foundation's mission of enhancing lives and promoting equity in opportunities.

The Garrett Francis Collins and Josephine Goodwin Collins Scholarship Fund, established by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation in 2015, supports high school seniors from Hinsdale, MA, pursuing higher education. This fund is part of a larger initiative that promotes economic mobility and community betterment, reflecting the foundation's commitment to philanthropy and leadership. With a rich history dating back to 1987, the foundation manages numerous funds to enhance the quality of life for residents across multiple regions.

The Quailwood Scholarship Fund, established by Jonathan Schor, aims to enhance public services and the quality of life in Red Rock, New York. Funded by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, it provides grants for conservation, education, and community support. The advisory board, comprising local leaders and organizations, ensures that the fund meets the long-term needs of the community. The initiative fosters a strong sense of community and encourages diverse participation among residents, promoting economic mobility and a high quality of life.

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship.

Greenville Federal Credit Union Scholarship Fund

The Greenville Federal Credit Union Foundation exists to promote local prosperity by providing grants, educational scholarships, and other funding support for individuals and non-profit, community-based programs within Greenville County, SC, with a primary focus on youth and education.

The Greenville Federal Credit Union Foundation offers high school seniors the opportunity to apply for (1) $5,000 needs-based scholarship and (5) $1,000 scholarships to help fund their first year of college or technical school.

The Tom Roberts Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Erie Community Foundation, supports high school seniors actively participating in baseball or softball with two annual scholarships. Honoring Tom Roberts' 40-year commitment to youth sports, applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.25 and plan to pursue post-secondary education or training. In 2023, over $800,000 in scholarships were awarded to deserving students, highlighting the foundation's dedication to fostering educational opportunities.

Native Forward awards are allocated based on the financial aid information provided by the institution’s Financial Aid Office. Awards can vary, ranging from $100 to $30,000 per academic year.

Native Forward Scholars Fund members of federally and state-recognized Tribes as well as first and second-generation descendants. However, Native Forward Scholars Fund scholarship opportunities have different Tribal eligibility requirements and can be determined by submitting a Tribal Eligibility Certificate.

NextEra Energy (NEE) Foundation Scholarship

The purpose of the NextEra Energy (NEE) Foundation scholarship, in partnership with NextEra Energy Foundation, is to provide financial assistance to eligible American Indian and Alaska Native undergraduate and graduate students enrolled full-time at an accredited institution and pursuing degrees with a focus in environment, energy, cultural sustainability, or a major in a STEM or STEM-related discipline. Native American students pursuing degrees that prepare them for the renewable energy workforce are encouraged to apply. 

This program will award 16 scholarships in the amount of $5,000 per academic year. This opportunity is a need-based award.

The John Berger Fellowship at Harvard Kennedy School supports MPP students who are graduates of Harvard College, aiming to work in U.S. or international institutions focused on international affairs. This fellowship is part of HKS's commitment to improving public policy and leadership, offering scholarships and fellowships based on merit and financial need, without discrimination against applicants based on citizenship, race, or other protected classifications.

The Henry J. and Lucille J. Straus Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides twelve renewable scholarships of $6,000 each for high school seniors with a minimum GPA of 3.2. Eligible students must enroll in a four-year accredited private college and demonstrate financial need via FAFSA. Requirements include a transcript, an essay on community service, and a letter of recommendation highlighting the applicant's character and commitment to diversity and inclusivity.

The Cecilia Hollis Memorial Scholarship, established in 1995, supports students from the Miami Valley, Ohio, pursuing degrees in engineering, technology, or industrial technology. This renewable scholarship offers $2,000 to both graduating high school seniors and current college students. Eligible applicants must be accepted to or enrolled in a two-year or four-year college or university and should aim to major in the specified fields, ensuring a bright future in technical careers.

The Kiwanis Club of Rancho Murieta offers scholarships to graduating high school seniors who are residents of Rancho Murieta, Sloughhouse, or Wilton. With three scholarships available at $2,000 each, eligibility includes a minimum GPA of 2.0 and full-time enrollment in a post-secondary institution. Applicants must participate in school and community activities, and provide two letters of recommendation. This initiative supports local youth in their educational pursuits.

The Hearld and Marge Ambler Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides two $6,000 awards to undergraduate students in their third, fourth, or fifth year pursuing a Business major, with a preference for Accounting. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 2.75, demonstrate financial need, and be employed while studying at an accredited four-year institution in Missouri or a contiguous state. Required application materials include a transcript, essay, letter of recommendation, and a summary of community service.

The Packaging Innovation Program by the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research (FFAR) seeks innovative research proposals to develop sustainable packaging alternatives for U.S. specialty crops. With increasing restrictions on single-use plastics, this initiative aims to enhance global market access for U.S. producers. Collaborating with Clemson University and the Foundation for Fresh Produce, the program supports three research tracks, focusing on applied R&D, technology acceleration, and pilot-scale manufacturing projects to advance eco-friendly packaging solutions.

The Captain John G. Gardner, USMC, Vietnam Veterans Memorial Scholarship honors a dedicated Marine who went missing in action during the Vietnam War. Established by Local Chapter 124 of the Vietnam Veterans of America, it aims to support the descendants of decorated Vietnam Veterans from 18 western counties in North Carolina. This scholarship provides financial assistance to graduating high school seniors who plan to pursue higher education at accredited institutions.

The American Academy of Optometry Foundation

The American Academy of Optometry (AAOF) is an association of optometric professionals who strive to stay at the top of their field. You will find like-minded colleagues within the American Academy of Optometry, an organization committed to promoting the art and science of vision care through lifelong learning.

The Academy’s membership is comprised of optometrists, vision scientists, and other qualified professionals who have committed themselves to the rigorous process required to achieve its prestigious designation, Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry (FAAO).

For more than a century, the Academy has provided Fellows access to the best minds in optometry, vision science, research, and more. Today’s Fellows welcome the opportunity to attend the Academy’s premiere event, its annual meeting. Other members include students, residents, and Candidates for Fellowship.

Each fall attendees from around the world gather for thousands of hours of continuing education and exposure to the most recent research, networking, and latest products and services. Fellows particularly value the opportunity to connect with colleagues and mentors while enjoying an exceptional level of camaraderie.

OD to PhD Scholarship Program

The OD/PhD Scholarship Program funds optometrists receiving a PhD in eye and vision related fields. Examples of appropriate PhD programs include but are not limited to: Vision Science, Physiological Optics, Biomedical Sciences, Public Health, Education (emphasis on Optometric Education), Neuroscience, and Psychology. The program provides vital support to those who will teach and lead the next generation of optometry students and advance the profession’s cutting-edge research.

The American Academy of Optometry Foundation is proud to partner with EssilorLuxottica to offer the OD to PhD Fellowship, an opportunity created to support optometrists who are ready to take the next step into vision science research. This fellowship is open to individuals who have completed or are completing the clinical training required for the optometry degree and who are enrolling in a PhD program in vision science or a related biomedical discipline.

This competitive fellowship provides financial support during the early years of doctoral training. Awardees receive funding in their first year and may receive additional support in the second year based on successful academic and research progress as detailed in their annual progress report.

Note, awardees may receive the fellowship for up to one successive, two-year period. 

The Swans Island Education Achievement Trust Fund, established in 1997 by the Maine Community Foundation, offers scholarship support to non-traditional residents of Swans Island pursuing further education beyond high school. This fund aims to assist those seeking college, vocational, or technical training, focusing on individual achievement, community service, and financial need. Scholarships may be renewable for up to four years, promoting educational advancement and community growth.

The Festus & Helen Stacy Foundation provides grants to non-profit organizations worldwide, especially those focusing on evangelism, leadership development, holistic ministries, and media outreach. Established in 1980, the foundation aims to support projects that address the needs of the marginalized and promote generous giving. Grants are typically awarded for specific initiatives in South Florida, nationally, and internationally, particularly in emerging nations. Organizations must be tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) to be eligible.

The Helene Stoller Scholarship, established in September 2023 by Dr. Helene Stoller, aims to support students pursuing degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math. This merit and need-based scholarship targets those with strong financial needs and academic excellence. Managed by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, it covers various educational expenses, ensuring equitable access regardless of race, gender, or background. Applications are reviewed by a dedicated committee to select deserving recipients.

The Dayton Daily News Community Solutions Scholarship, established in 2005 in honor of Mike Peters, aims to support graduating seniors from Miami Valley high schools. This $1000 scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate academic success and a commitment to solving community issues. Applicants must have been accepted into an accredited college or university and provide insights into their community contributions and future plans for impact. This initiative fosters civic engagement and supports future leaders.

The Dayton Catholic Women's Club Scholarship, established in 2010, supports female high school graduates of the Roman Catholic faith in their pursuit of higher education. With a commitment to promoting unity and cooperation among Catholic women since 1923, this scholarship awards $1,000 to eligible applicants who demonstrate financial need and are members of a Dayton area Roman Catholic Church. This initiative reflects the organization's dedication to educational advancement and community support.