Best Grants for BIPOC in South Dakota

The Deadwood Fund Grant, funded by gambling revenue in Deadwood, South Dakota, offers financial assistance ranging from $1,000 to $25,000 for projects aimed at restoring or rehabilitating historic buildings and sites. Eligible applicants include individuals and organizations that demonstrate adherence to the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation. Projects must provide public historic preservation benefits and often require a dollar-for-dollar match from non-federal sources, ensuring sustainable use after completion.

PFund Foundation supports LGBTQ+ communities in the Upper Midwest by providing event sponsorship funding for various gatherings, including fundraisers and pride festivals. Organizations eligible for funding must align with the foundation's mission, serve LGBTQ+ individuals, and be registered as 501c3 nonprofit entities. Events must be located within the foundation's service area and be scheduled at least 60 days in advance. This initiative aims to foster community engagement and support.

The Day-End Dough-Nation® Program by Panera Bread exemplifies community generosity through the donation of unsold bakery products to local charities. This impactful initiative supports various organizations that distribute food to those in need, including shelters, health centers, and youth programs. By partnering with thousands of non-profits nationwide, Panera Bread not only reduces food waste but also plays a crucial role in addressing hunger and promoting equality within communities.

The NRP Young Investigator Award is designed to support research on optimizing newborn care during delivery using Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) techniques. This grant encourages innovative projects addressing gaps in transitional physiology and resuscitation practices. Eligible applicants include researchers from Canadian and US institutions, particularly those in training or within four years of completing medical training. Awardees may receive up to $15,000 to enhance their skills and knowledge, ultimately improving neonatal outcomes.

PFund Foundation

PFund Foundation builds equity with LGBTQ+ communities across the Upper Midwest by providing grants and scholarships, developing leaders, and inspiring giving.

Community Grants

PFund Community Grants are for LGBTQ+ serving nonprofits in the Upper Midwest. These grants range from $1,000-$20,000+ and include organizational membership to the PFund Leadership Institute, a monthly cohort based learning and networking opportunity.

• PRISM Fund

PRISM (Promoting Rural Interconnections for Sexual Minorities). Fund supports rural LGBTQ+ serving nonprofit organizations. Grants are made possible by the Northwest Area Foundation.

• TRANScend Fund

TRANScend Fund supports Trans & gender nonconforming serving nonprofit organizations and programs. Grants are made possible by Drop Deadlift Gorgeous and donors.

• Bi+ Fund

Bisexual Fund supports noprofit organizations primarily serving the bisexual community, including but not limited to bisexual, omnisexual, pansexual, polysexual, or sexually fluid. Grants are made possible by an endowed fund. 

The Ashland County Wildlife Conservation League David McClure Memorial Scholarship supports graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools and alternative education programs pursuing a degree in wildlife-related fields. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and be accepted into accredited colleges or vocational programs. This scholarship fosters educational growth while promoting conservation efforts, reflecting the commitment of the Ashland County Community Foundation to enhance community development and support future leaders in wildlife conservation.

The South Dakota Freedom Scholarship aims to alleviate the financial burden of higher education by providing need-based scholarships to students from diverse economic backgrounds. To qualify, applicants must be South Dakota residents, complete their FAFSA, and commit to living and working in the state post-graduation. This initiative not only supports students in achieving their bachelor's degrees but also contributes to building a skilled workforce in South Dakota.

Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation Inc supports independent medical education to enhance healthcare professional competence and improve patient health outcomes. Their mission is to be a global leader in innovative medical education, focusing on evidence-based activities that address critical gaps in knowledge. By fostering excellence in healthcare, they aim to ensure measurable improvements in performance and patient outcomes across various disease areas.

The Donald W. and Glennis A. Kaufman Research Award supports ecological research in the Great Plains and Canada Prairie Provinces, focusing on native mammals, especially rodents and shrews. Offered by the American Society of Mammalogists, this annual $2,500 award is available to graduate students (master's or Ph.D.) from any nationality. Applications are open to those enrolled in relevant programs, promoting vital research in these unique ecosystems.

The RMS-SEPM Scholarships: The Donald L. Smith Research Grant offers $2,000 for Ph.D. candidates conducting sedimentary geology research in the Rocky Mountain region. This grant honors Professor Donald Smith and is open to students at U.S. universities, with preference for those in states like Montana and Colorado. The funding aims to enhance understanding of the geology in these areas through dedicated research efforts.

The McKesson Foundation Grant provides funding above $25,000 to support health equity initiatives across North America. Founded in 1943, its mission focuses on removing barriers to quality healthcare for vulnerable communities. The foundation prioritizes projects that align with strategic pillars: reducing cancer burdens, preparing the healthcare workforce, and enhancing crisis response. Eligible organizations include national and local nonprofits. Funding is limited to specific regions and assessed based on demonstrated need and expected impact.

The National Trust Preservation Funds provide grants ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 to support local preservation projects and ongoing work. These funds aim to enhance community engagement in preservation, foster technical expertise, and stimulate financial participation from the private sector. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofit organizations focused on planning and education efforts related to preservation. The program is particularly interested in initiatives that reach new audiences and further the preservation movement.

The St. Croix Valley Foundation serves six counties bordering the St. Croix River through local partnerships and place-based philanthropy. We serve:

• Minnesota: Chisago County, Washington County
• Wisconsin: Burnett County, Pierce County, Polk County, St. Croix County

Since our founding in 1995, we’ve:

• Grown to 500+ charitable funds and $100M+ in assets
• Facilitated $100M+ in grants and scholarships, including $5.8 million in 2024
• Partnered with local community affiliates led by volunteers who help guide grantmaking, grow local endowments, and connect donors to opportunities close to home.

Humane Organization Grant Program 

Mission

To enhance the quality of life of shelter/ rescue animals and to increase their chances for adoption. 

The St. Croix Valley Foundation (SCVF) Humane Organization grant program funded by the Compassionate Animal Fund, is accepting applications (invitation only) from Managed Open Admission humane organizations located in the upper Midwest. The grants, ranging up to $3,000, can cover items on your “wish list” including food, supplies, infrastructure needs, and veterinary cost. 

Funding Criteria

Grants are intended to provide funds for items such as food, supplies, medicine, spay/neuter programs (for in-house animals to aid in adoption) newsletters, or other needs and/or programs that most benefit the humane organization.

​We understand that shelters may differ in the services or alternatives they offer during the waiting period prior to intake. If your facility is at capacity, you must provide a clear statement outlining how emergency surrenders and stray animals are handled, including the procedures your organization follows to operate as an Open Admission shelter.  

The NIOSH Miner Safety and Health Training Program aims to enhance health and safety training for miners in the Western United States. With mining fatalities significantly higher than the national average, this initiative seeks to address critical training needs by developing effective programs, increasing qualified instructors, and ensuring compliance with existing safety guidelines. By focusing on culturally appropriate training methods and collaborative efforts with other agencies, the program aims to reduce injuries and fatalities in the mining sector.

The DGLF Youth Literacy Grants, established by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, aim to enhance literacy among underperforming students in K-12. Organizations such as schools and libraries can apply for funding to implement or expand literacy programs, purchase necessary materials, and acquire technology. With over $159 million awarded to date, the foundation supports efforts that provide equitable education opportunities, ensuring every child has the chance to learn and succeed, regardless of their background.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers the DGLF Summer Reading Grants, which support the development and expansion of summer reading programs aimed at Pre-K to 12th grade students, particularly new and below-grade-level readers, including those with learning disabilities. Eligible organizations, such as nonprofits, schools, and libraries within 15 miles of a Dollar General store, can apply for grants up to $3,000 to foster literacy and education initiatives.

The Davenport, Evans, Hurwitz & Smith Scholarship, managed by the Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation, offers significant financial support for students pursuing higher education in South Dakota. With over $500,000 awarded annually, this scholarship targets high-achieving seniors from specific counties, encouraging participation in community activities and academic excellence. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and plan to attend an accredited institution, ensuring that deserving students receive the assistance they need to succeed.

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation

Founded in 1984, we are a 501(c)(3) public charity. Today, we manage more than 1,000 charitable funds, serving as the trusted stewards for more than $390 million in assets.

Our Community Investment team works with local nonprofits, schools and community leaders to identify gaps, assess critical needs and explore opportunities and possibilities. Our Philanthropy team works with individuals, families, advisors, businesses, and nonprofits, offering deep and broad experience and expertise in philanthropic strategy, charitable and organizational endowments, and legacy planning.

Scholarship Opportunities

The Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation manages one of the state's largest scholarship programs, awarding more than $500,000 in scholarships to local students each year. If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, it's likely we have a scholarship that can help you achieve your dream.

Fred and Marie Christopherson Scholarship

Awarded to graduating seniors from South Dakota high schools. This award is renewable for up to three additional years if requirements are met and if funds are available.

The Mutual Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants in South Dakota support organizations in overseeing self-help housing projects for low-income families. Participants build homes collaboratively, receiving technical assistance throughout the process. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations and federally-recognized tribes. Funds can be used for technical support and recruitment, but not for hiring construction labor or purchasing materials. This program aims to empower families while fostering community development in rural areas.

The IDeA Networks of Biomedical Research Excellence (INBRE) program aims to enhance biomedical research capacity in underfunded states by fostering collaborations among research institutions. By supporting faculty research, mentoring, and student involvement, INBREs create pathways for undergraduate students to enter biomedical careers. This initiative not only promotes institutional partnerships but also strengthens research infrastructure, ultimately contributing to a more robust scientific community in IDeA states.

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation

Founded in 1984, we are a 501(c)(3) public charity. Today, we manage more than 1,000 charitable funds, serving as the trusted stewards for more than $390 million in assets.

Our Community Investment team works with local nonprofits, schools and community leaders to identify gaps, assess critical needs and explore opportunities and possibilities. Our Philanthropy team works with individuals, families, advisors, businesses, and nonprofits, offering deep and broad experience and expertise in philanthropic strategy, charitable and organizational endowments, and legacy planning.

Scholarship Opportunities

The Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation manages one of the state's largest scholarship programs, awarding more than $500,000 in scholarships to local students each year. If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, it's likely we have a scholarship that can help you achieve your dream.

Jim and Pat Croston Family Scholarship

Awarded to a former graduate of an accredited high school in the Sioux Falls area. Preference is given to applicants pursuing a degree in elementary or secondary education and who have plans to work in a middle school setting.

The Bonnycastle Fellowship for Wetland and Waterfowl Research supports graduate students in advancing conservation efforts. Offered by Ducks Unlimited, this fellowship provides up to $17,000 annually for research and personal support. The fellowship emphasizes the importance of research originality, ecological contributions, and feasibility. It is open to all North American graduate students, with a preference for doctoral candidates. The award is renewable for PhD students up to two years, and once for Master's students, contingent on satisfactory progress.

The Patterson Foundation offers Oral Health Grants to support programs that enhance access to dental care for underserved communities. Eligible 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations can apply for funding up to $35,000 for capacity expansion, $10,000 for personnel support, or $10,000 for program support. The foundation prioritizes projects led by volunteer dental professionals and requires follow-up reports for continued funding. Applications are accepted year-round through a two-step process.

The PFund Foundation offers a Sponsorship Fund for events primarily serving LGBTQ+ communities in the upper Midwest. With sponsorship amounts ranging from $500 to $1,000, organizations can apply once per calendar year. Applications must be submitted at least 60 days prior to the event and include information on the event's impact and how funds will be used. PFund aims to foster equity and strengthen networks within its focus areas.

The Pratt Family Foundation Grant, established in 1999, supports initiatives in education, healthcare, and community welfare. It prioritizes organizations that aid housing assistance, support for women in crisis, and disadvantaged youth programs, particularly in North Carolina. The Foundation favors established religious and charitable organizations that are tax-exempt and have a local presence. Preference is given to areas connected to the Pratt family, such as Texas and Florida, ensuring impactful contributions to community development.

The NCAA Division II Degree Completion Award provides financial assistance to student-athletes who have exhausted their athletics eligibility, enabling them to complete their first undergraduate degree. Since its inception in 2001, nearly $9 million has supported approximately 1,875 athletes, with a remarkable 90 percent graduation rate among recipients. The award covers tuition costs up to $15,000 for remaining credits and may be used in the summer term or short terms surrounding the final undergraduate year.

4-H Club Foundation of Tripp County

This application qualifies members of the 4-H Club Foundation of Tripp County Scholarship and the Harold & Twila Zink Scholarship. The number and amount of the scholarship are based on applicants and merit.

To provide financial support to current and past students of the Tripp County area pursuing post-secondary education at a South Dakota institute with preference given to participants in Tripp County 4-H.