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

About Us

Driving Positive Change in Noble County!

At the Community Foundation of Noble County we are passionate about making Noble County an even better place to call home. Since 1991, area residents have been turning to the Community Foundation of Noble County to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible, as we see it as our mission to serve as a catalyst for positive change. The Community Foundation of Noble County is a public charity 501 (c) 3 entity.

As a group of invested community members, we identify local current and emerging issues and stimulate resources to address those needs, helping our region prepare for the future. We then leverage gifts and bequests from generous donors like you to drive positive change through grants in such areas as arts and culture, education, health and human services, civic affairs and other charitable areas of interest.

Our Mission

To improve the quality of life in Noble County by serving as catalyst for positive change, enabling donors to carry out charitable intent, and making grants.

Donor Story – Joest, Brian H. Memorial Fund

Brian Henry Joest was born in Lagrange, Indiana in 1957. He grew up on the Atwood family farm that was settled by his ancestors in the mid-1800s. Now a historical Hoosier Homestead, the Atwood Farm provided him with all the outdoor activities possible for a farm boy in northern Indiana. Brian’s love of nature and the outdoors continued throughout his life. After high school, he attended Glen Oaks Community College and then Purdue University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Economics

For decades, Brian went on annual backcountry camping and canoeing trips across the US and Canada. He paddled some of the most beautiful rivers in North America. He took a road trip to remote northern Alaska. He camped out on an active volcano in Guatemala. He explored most of the US National Parks. In his later years, his travels were less rustic but still adventurous as he and his wife, Cindy, checked off many items on his bucket list. They traveled to Paris, Rome, Florence, the Amalfi Coast of Italy, Ireland, and all around the US and Canada.

Brian began his professional career with management positions at Many Glacier Hotel at Glacier National Park in Montana; the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, Michigan; the Mountain View Grand Resort in New Hampshire; and Copper Mountain Ski Resort in Colorado. He also worked for Marriott Corporation where he opened new hotels across the Midwest.

Upon the birth of his first child, Brian moved his young family back to Lagrange County so his children could grow up on the Atwood Farm near their family. Brian worked for Life Care Center of Lagrange, was a substitute teacher for the Lakeland School District, and worked for fifteen years for East Noble School Corporation, most recently as an Instructional Assistant for high school students with special needs.

Brian enjoyed doing things for other people and took so much joy in their happiness. His career choices reflected his servant’s heart. He loved working in the hospitality industry and being able to make someone else’s vacation more memorable. He helped the patients and their families at Life Care Center. He spent years making a difference for students in our local schools.

Brian experienced first-hand the unique challenges faced by the families of individuals with special needs. He was a father, stepfather, and step-grandfather to children with different disabilities. He understood the difficulties of navigating support systems and knew there are gaps in these systems that result in unmet needs. At the end of his life, while he was fighting cancer, Brian dreamed of being able to return to the classroom to help special needs students. This was not to be. In 2022, his family created this fund in his honor with the intent of continuing his dream to help improve the lives of individuals with special needs.

The Presenter Consortium for Jazz Grant, offered by Chamber Music America, supports U.S.-based presenters collaborating to engage professional jazz ensembles. This grant provides up to $39,000 for expenses like ensemble fees, concert production, and marketing. Each consortium can include up to three presenters and aims to enhance the jazz experience through live performances and streamed concerts. Eligible projects must involve CMA’s New Jazz Works grantees, fostering creativity and community engagement in jazz.

South Dakota Community Foundation

As a statewide community foundation, we work with donors, nonprofits and community leaders to strengthen philanthropy in South Dakota every day.

Scholarships

At South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF), we proudly manage more than 350 scholarship funds in partnership with generous donors who are committed to supporting students. These scholarships offer countless opportunities to help ease the financial burden of continuing their education.

Spearfish Volunteer Firefighters' Association Scholarship

To provide financial support to individuals pursuing an education and training in the public safety industry.

The Spearfish Fire Department, established in the late 1880s as a volunteer organization, serves the northern Black Hills in western South Dakota. Its mission is to protect lives and property within the fire protection district and mutual aid area. Additionally, the department advocates for fire safety and provides fire safety education in local schools and the wider community.

The Patrice Faye Cohen Memorial Scholarship Award supports high school women from Southern New Jersey who are pursuing college education with a focus on entrepreneurship. Established in memory of Patrice Faye Cohen, a successful business owner, this scholarship aims to empower women to achieve their entrepreneurial dreams. Eligible candidates must demonstrate a commitment to their studies and entrepreneurial aspirations, with financial support available for tuition and related expenses.

About NABT

Since its establishment in 1938, the National Association of Biology Teachers (NABT) has been the recognized "leader in life science education." Thousands of educators have joined NABT to share experiences and expertise with colleagues from around the globe; keep up with trends and developments in the field; and grow professionally.

NABT Mission

The National Association of Biology Teachers empowers educators to provide the best possible biology and life science education for all students.

Climate Education Action Award

Sponsored by NCSE, this award recognizes excellence in classroom/community education that specifically supports and promotes the accurate and robust teaching of climate science and the impact of the changing climate on society beyond the classroom. This award is presented to K-12 teachers in odd-numbered years and undergraduate and/or informal educators in even-numbered years. NCSE’s sponsorship of this award includes a $1,000 honorarium. The recipient also receives a recognition plaque to be presented at the NABT Professional Development Conference and one year of complimentary membership to NABT.

Raptor Research Foundation

RRF Mission Statement: The Raptor Research Foundation advances the science, conservation, and understanding of birds of prey.

The Raptor Research Foundation (RRF) is the world’s largest professional society for raptor researchers and conservationists. Founded in 1966 as a non-profit organization, our primary goal is the accumulation and dissemination of scientific information about raptors. The Foundation organizes annual scientific conferences and provides competitive grants and awards for researchers and conservationists. The Foundation also provides support and networking opportunities for students and early career raptor researchers.

Fran and Frederick Hamerstrom Achievement Award

The Fran and Frederick Hamerstrom Award is a non-monetary award that recognizes an individual who has contributed significantly to the understanding of raptor ecology and natural history. The award has no restrictions, but membership in the RRF is encouraged. Nomination packets can be submitted in the spring. Recipients will be announced at the annual meeting. Recipients are invited to give a plenary lecture at the subsequent RRF annual meeting. 

About The Hamerstroms: The award was established in 1990 to recognize and honor the Hamerstrom’s contributions to our understanding of raptor natural history and ecology through their long-term ecological studies. Between them, during their lifetime of research they authored and co-authored over 240 scientific papers, books, and reviews. Fran and Hammie moved from Boston to the midwest, where Fran was Aldo Leopold’s only female graduate student. They settled down in Plainfield Wisconsin where a small army of young researchers got their start in the field helping out on studies of harriers and prairie chickens. 

The Life Comes From It Grant, funded by the Tides Foundation, supports grassroots initiatives focused on restorative, transformative, and indigenous justice. It prioritizes projects led by communities of color, emphasizing alternatives to incarceration and community-led solutions. Applicants must be 501c3 organizations based in the United States. This grant fosters a collaborative approach to healing and justice, aiming to shift power dynamics and promote inclusive practices across generations.

Raptor Research Foundation

RRF Mission Statement: The Raptor Research Foundation advances the science, conservation, and understanding of birds of prey.

The Raptor Research Foundation (RRF) is the world’s largest professional society for raptor researchers and conservationists. Founded in 1966 as a non-profit organization, our primary goal is the accumulation and dissemination of scientific information about raptors. The Foundation organizes annual scientific conferences and provides competitive grants and awards for researchers and conservationists. The Foundation also provides support and networking opportunities for students and early career raptor researchers.

Partners for Raptors Lifetime Achievement Award

The Partners for Raptors Lifetime Achievement Award honors outstanding individuals who have dedicated their lives to raptor research and conservation. These notable awardees are recognized for their significant contributions to the study and conservation of birds of prey, as well as their outstanding achievements gained through innovative field work, impactful collaborative partnerships, and a lifetime of inclusive interactions with their peers and the public focused on raptors. This is a joint award originally given by the Raptor Research Foundation in partnership with The Peregrine Fund. Going forward, we welcome partnerships with other raptor-oriented organizations, depending on the nominee’s involvement with both the proposing organization and RRF. The award is intended to complement RRF’s Hamerstrom (primarily academic focused) and Cade (primarily conservation focused) awards. 

This is a non-monetary award, designated with a plaque and a RRF resolution honoring the awardee.

The nomination committee consists of representatives of both RRF and the partner organization. Once a nominee is identified, the boards of both the RRF and the partner organization will ratify the nomination.

Raptor Research Foundation

RRF Mission Statement: The Raptor Research Foundation advances the science, conservation, and understanding of birds of prey.

The Raptor Research Foundation (RRF) is the world’s largest professional society for raptor researchers and conservationists. Founded in 1966 as a non-profit organization, our primary goal is the accumulation and dissemination of scientific information about raptors. The Foundation organizes annual scientific conferences and provides competitive grants and awards for researchers and conservationists. The Foundation also provides support and networking opportunities for students and early career raptor researchers.

William Andersen Student Presentation Awards

The Awards: The William C. Andersen Memorial Awards are given to both the best student oral and poster presentation at the annual RRF meeting. This award can only be given to a student once per degree (bachelor, master, or doctorate). To be eligible, a student must be senior author and presenter of the paper or poster.

Students wishing to apply for this award should indicate their interest by checking the box on the abstract submission form. 

Amount

The poster award recipient receives $325, 1-year free membership to RRF, and waived page charges to publish their research in the Journal of Raptor Research. The recipient must be the primary author and the paper must reflect what the award was for.

The paper award recipient receives $525, 1-year free membership to RRF, and waived page charges to publish their research in the Journal of Raptor Research. The recipient must be the primary author and the paper must reflect what the award was for.

About William Andersen

The William C. Andersen Award was established in 1982 in memory of Bill Andersen, who drowned in 1980 while canoeing the Churchill River in Manitoba during a Peregrine Falcon survey. Dr. Andersen was a chemistry professor, but his first love was raptors. He established the Ornithology Research Center at Otero Jr. College in La Junta Colorado, as a medium for raising funds for the field research he conducted with his students. His interest in raptors of southeastern Colorado grasslands naturally evolved into developing a solution to the universal problem of raptor persecution. He established a rehabilitation facility and tirelessly lectured to service clubs and school groups about the benefits of raptors. He was a strong supporter of the RRF and a number of students accompanied him to each of the annual meetings. His enthusiasm, sincerity, and humor sparked an interest in raptors among many of his students and associates. While participating in the 1980 North American Peregrine Falcon Survey, Bill and a partner were canoeing on the Churchill River in northern Manitoba. They unexpectedly encountered extremely turbulent water and capsized. Bill disappeared and presumably drowned. In that instant, raptors and those inspired by them lost one of their strongest allies.

The Thoroughbred Education and Research Foundation (TERF) offers grants to support thoroughbred health, welfare, and education. Focused on enhancing equine research and safety in racing, TERF prioritizes funding for scholarships, educational programs, and veterinary medicine. Eligible applicants must be recognized 501(c)(3) organizations, with a commitment to transparency in reporting. This initiative aims to significantly impact the thoroughbred industry by fostering improved care and understanding of these horses, contributing to their overall welfare.

The Thoroughbred Education and Research Foundation (TERF) offers grants to support education and research related to Thoroughbred horses. The foundation prioritizes funding for scholarships, educational programs, and equine research aimed at promoting thoroughbred health and welfare. Eligible applicants include qualified 501(c)(3) organizations, while those previously funded must submit reports before applying again. Notably, TERF does not provide funds for facilities caring for unwanted horses or cover overhead costs for grants.

The Holloway Family Foundation, established in North Central Texas, aims to enhance community quality of life regardless of race, gender, or religion. Their mission focuses on financial security, creative expression for under-resourced youth, and mentorship for personal development. The foundation supports organizations that provide workforce training, artistic opportunities for children, and guidance for youth in need. By fostering individual growth and economic stability, they empower families and strengthen communities, staying true to the founders' core values and personal experiences.

Troutville Volunteer Fire Department Scholarship Fund

Fund provides higher educational scholarship assistance to deserving students.

Amount

• $1,000+
• non-renewable

The NIAMS Clinical Trial Implementation Cooperative Agreement (UG3/UH3) invites applications for the execution of investigator-initiated, interventional clinical trials across various phases. This program supports researchers in finalizing preparations necessary for trial initiation, including IRB establishment and staffing. Successful UG3 projects may transition to the UH3 phase, emphasizing the need for hypothesis-driven studies with significant clinical impact within NIAMS's research mission.

The ABPN Faculty Innovation in Education Award aims to support innovative educational projects that enhance residency training and lifelong learning for psychiatrists and neurologists. With a funding potential of $120,000 over two years, the award prioritizes projects focused on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, clinical skills evaluations, and professional competence. Applicants must hold a faculty position at an accredited U.S. medical school or submit a validated offer letter. Preference is given to first-time applicants and those at junior or mid-faculty levels.

The AISES Indigenous Peoples Education Fund (IPEF) Scholarship offers $5,000 to support Indigenous students pursuing degrees in STEM fields. This scholarship is available to current AISES members who are full-time students and enrolled citizens or descendants of recognized Native American tribes. AISES aims to empower these students, fostering diversity in STEM while recognizing the importance of education as a tool for personal growth and community development.

The Wesley Lanyon Award, presented by the American Ornithological Society, honors early-career ornithologists for the best integrative avian science review paper published in AOS journals. With a $1,500 honorarium and $1,000 travel stipend, this biennial award encourages doctoral students and recent Ph.D. graduates to contribute novel insights to ornithology. Winners can organize a symposium at the AOS annual meeting, fostering collaboration and advancing research in the field.

The Friends Foundation for the Aging Grant supports innovative and impactful programs aimed at addressing the needs of older adults, particularly within underserved populations. This Quaker foundation prioritizes collaboration and sustainability in its funding efforts. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) public charities focused on enhancing the quality of life for aging individuals. Grants are typically awarded for one year and target organizations that align with the foundation's mission and values.

The Katma Award, established by the American Ornithological Society in 2003, honors innovative research that challenges existing theories in avian biology. This award encourages submissions of research articles, commentaries, or short communications published within the last two years. Nominees are expected to uphold high ethical standards, and the award includes a $2,500 prize and a certificate. Ideal submissions include papers authored by one or two researchers, with self-nominations also accepted.

The AOS-Sponsored Student Memberships provide one year of free membership to students globally interested in ornithology. Awardees gain full access to AOS membership benefits and are encouraged to participate in various opportunities, including the annual meeting and travel grants. This initiative aims to foster the next generation of ornithologists by supporting their academic and professional growth while upholding high ethical standards aligned with the AOS Code of Conduct.

The Florence Merriam Bailey Award, presented by the American Ornithological Society, honors outstanding articles published by early career members in AOS journals within the last two years. Awarded annually, it includes a $1,500 cash prize to the lead author. Papers recognized alternate between the journals 'Ornithology' and 'Ornithological Applications'. Nominees must adhere to high ethical standards as outlined in the AOS Code of Conduct.

The Limited Competition NOFO aims to provide ongoing support for specific pathogen-free (SPF) macaque colonies that facilitate vital HIV/AIDS research. Only recipients funded under previous ORIP-supported SPF colony announcements are eligible to apply. These breeding colonies are crucial for maintaining SPF macaques, which are free from certain viruses that could jeopardize research outcomes. The project emphasizes the genetic characterization of macaques to enhance understanding of immune responses related to HIV and SIV.

The Rural Decentralized Water System Grant Program aims to assist low to moderate-income individuals in financing household water wells and decentralized wastewater systems. This program provides grants to eligible nonprofit organizations to create a revolving fund for loans and sub-grants. Funds can be utilized for constructing, refurbishing, or replacing water well and wastewater systems, ensuring safe and efficient water management for rural communities.

In 2025, the Community Foundation of Madison & Jefferson County awarded over $233,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors of the county’s public and private high schools. Nearly 50 different students earned money toward their college costs. Scholarships are available for a variety of applicants. Some are specific to schools, majors, need, or interests.

CFMJC scholarships may be used for tuition and related expenses like fees and required equipment at accredited colleges and universities. Room and board are not covered.

Madison Chautauqua Scholarship for the Arts in Memory of Bob Fourhman

Criteria evaluated:

• Letter of recommendation and artwork samples

Required materials:

• Letter of recommendation from a person knowledgeable about your talent and accomplishments in your art form; and
• An uploaded sample of your work (maximum 3 photos or 1 short video/audio clip)

Scholarship amount:

• $1,200 | 1 scholarship

The Miller Indigenous Economic Development Fellowship, established by the Native Forward Scholars Fund, provides financial assistance to American Indian and Alaska Native doctoral candidates engaged in economic research impacting Native communities. This fellowship supports costs associated with data collection, analysis, and travel. It aims to enhance the representation of Native scholars in economics, addressing the current underrepresentation in the field. Eligible candidates are encouraged to apply to further their research and contribute to their communities.

The SAF National Awards Program recognizes excellence in forestry through various awards, including the Award in Forest Science. This award acknowledges significant research contributions in quantitative, economic, managerial, and social sciences, promoting advancements in forestry. Recipients receive a $1,000 honorarium, a complimentary SAF convention registration, and travel expense support. Established in 1996, this award highlights the importance of innovative research that impacts both national and international forestry practices.

The Moody's Community Impact Grant Program supports organizations with tax-exempt status to foster social and economic equality. Established by Moody's Foundation, it prioritizes initiatives that empower underestimated communities and entrepreneurs, driving innovation and ecological restoration. The foundation focuses on inclusive growth, providing resources for small businesses and community resilience. Eligible organizations must be registered charities under U.S. IRS guidelines, while ineligible entities include individuals and those promoting unlawful discrimination.