Best Grants for Capital Funding in South Dakota

The ACES Foundation Fund, managed by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, offers scholarships to high school seniors from Cumberland, Dauphin, or Perry County. Eligible students must pursue business-related studies or trades, demonstrate academic achievement with a minimum GPA of 2.5, and show commitment to community service. This initiative aims to support future entrepreneurs and enhance community development through educational funding.

The nccPA Health Foundation: Kathy J. Pedersen Grant aims to promote equitable health care by providing up to $5,000 for innovative projects that address health disparities. This grant honors Kathy J. Pedersen's legacy and encourages applicants to develop actionable strategies that foster cultural humility, advocate for underserved populations, and improve public health. Grantees are expected to demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and social accountability in their proposed initiatives.

The Woodstock Lions Club Scholarship, funded by The Community Foundation for McHenry County, offers financial assistance to students from the District 200 area in Woodstock, Illinois. This scholarship supports those pursuing four-year degrees, two-year associate degrees, or vocational certificates. Eligibility includes maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.5 and demonstrating community involvement. Preference is given to students with financial need, reinforcing the foundation's commitment to educational support and community growth.

The VAC Veterans Memorial Scholarship, offered by The Community Foundation for McHenry County, provides financial assistance to children and grandchildren of active-duty military personnel and honorably discharged veterans. Applicants must be Illinois high school graduates with a minimum 2.5 GPA and provide proof of military connection. This scholarship not only supports educational pursuits but also honors the legacy of service to the country, fostering the next generation of leaders and scholars.

The Inspire the Future Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region, aims to support graduating high school seniors from Calumet County who have experienced foster care. Eligible students must maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA and demonstrate a commitment to personal growth and academic success. This scholarship not only alleviates financial burdens for college or vocational training but also fosters a supportive community environment for those in need.

The Jennifer Samson Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by The Community Foundation for McHenry County, honors the memory of a talented artist and advocate. It provides annual awards to graduating high school students in McHenry County who have actively participated in musical theater. This scholarship not only supports educational pursuits but also continues Jenn's legacy of love for the arts and her commitment to equal rights and community service. Applicants must demonstrate involvement in musical theater during their high school years.

The Jake Arndt Memorial Scholarship, managed by The Community Foundation for McHenry County, supports students dedicated to the Woodstock community pursuing higher education. This scholarship honors Jake Arndt, a beloved individual known for his kindness and community involvement. Applicants must demonstrate community engagement and may receive preference if they have athletic backgrounds or financial need. In total, CFMC allocates $50,000 annually in scholarships to empower local students in their educational pursuits.

The Jonathan Dewberry Porter Memorial Scholarship, established by the family of Jonathan Porter, a dedicated veteran and Central State University Upward Bound graduate, supports graduating seniors from the program. This scholarship aims to assist students who demonstrate financial need and have a minimum GPA of 2.0, helping them pursue further education at colleges or technical schools, thereby continuing Jonathan's legacy of aiding others in achieving their dreams.

The Bill Cox Memorial Scholarship offers a $1,750 award to graduating seniors from Spokane High School, aimed at supporting their educational aspirations. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher, demonstrate financial need through FAFSA-SAI, and submit a transcript along with an essay detailing community service and school activities. A letter of recommendation is also required. The scholarship application period will reopen on January 1, 2026 for the 2026–27 academic year.

The Gil and Kay Sparks Scholarship, established in 2020 by friends of the couple, honors their contributions to the Wenatchee Valley community. This scholarship supports graduating seniors from Westside High School or similar non-traditional schools in Chelan, Douglas, or Okanogan counties, aiming to aid students pursuing further education. Recipients should demonstrate resilience in overcoming life challenges, reflecting the legacy of Gil and Kay, who exemplified community building with humility.

The Crooked Stick Endowed Scholarship, established by Crooked Stick Golf Club, aims to support students from Central Indiana pursuing post-secondary education with a strong interest in golf. Funded by the Hamilton County Community Foundation, this scholarship emphasizes academic promise, character, and financial need, ensuring that recipients are well-rounded individuals dedicated to their education and the sport they love. This initiative reflects a commitment to fostering talent in the golfing community.

The Wenatchee Valley Medical Group and Confluence Health Employee Scholarship supports employees and their families pursuing higher education in healthcare. Offered by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, this scholarship is available for various educational paths, including trade schools, community colleges, and four-year universities. Preference is given to employees, their children, and first-degree relatives, emphasizing those aiming for healthcare-related training. This initiative fosters educational advancement within the community.

The Cooney Scholarship, established by Melissa Cooney through the Community Foundation for McHenry County, honors her parents' values of community service. It supports students from Woodstock, Illinois, who have demonstrated involvement with local nonprofit organizations. This scholarship aims to empower those who embody a spirit of giving back, offering financial assistance to further their education and strengthen their commitment to community service.

The Malcolm F. and Harriet B. Brown Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, provides financial support ranging from $4,000 to $8,000 over four years to graduating high school seniors from Southeastern Connecticut. Established in 1983, this scholarship aims to encourage students to pursue their educational goals, contributing to over $11.9 million awarded since its inception.

The DTA Foundation Grant, offered by the Dental Trade Alliance Foundation, aims to enhance oral health care accessibility across the United States. With over 20 years of experience, the foundation supports key projects and scholarships for aspiring dental professionals, focusing on addressing barriers to care and improving oral health outcomes in underserved communities. By fostering partnerships and advocating for oral health education, the foundation continues to make a significant impact in the lives of millions.

The Bernard B. and Mary L. Brusin Scholarship Fund offers financial support to Jewish and Roman Catholic students from specific Duluth-area high schools. Established in 1987, this scholarship honors the Brusins' commitment to education and community service. Award amounts range from $5,000 to $10,000 annually, with a total potential of $40,000 over four years. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and a dedication to community involvement.

The Jim Ferree Educational Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, supports graduating seniors from Beaufort County, SC, aiming for post-secondary education at accredited institutions. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, demonstrate extracurricular involvement beyond golf, and write an essay on how golf has shaped their personal growth. This initiative fosters educational opportunities for youth impacted by the game of golf, positively influencing their futures.

The Barbara Bass Community College Scholarship, offered by the East Texas Communities Foundation, supports graduating seniors who are first-generation college students living in Tyler, Texas. This renewable scholarship aims to assist students attending any community college in the United States while considering financial need through FASFA. Founded in 1989, the Foundation promotes educational opportunities, reflecting the belief in education's transformative power for young individuals.

The Marge Christensen Gould Memorial Scholarship, valued at $1,500 annually, honors the legacy of Marge Gould, a dedicated educator at Catalina High School. It aims to support students from Southern Arizona, especially those graduating from specific local high schools. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and can re-apply for up to four years. This initiative emphasizes the importance of education in fostering future leaders within the community.

The Robert D. and Dorothy M. Powers Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports high school seniors from New Britain, CT, pursuing a bachelor’s degree. This scholarship prioritizes academic achievement and financial need, ensuring that deserving students can continue their education and achieve their aspirations. With a strong commitment to community development, CFGNB aims to empower students and foster a brighter future for the region.

About Decatur County Community Foundation

Decatur County Community Foundation connects people who care with causes that matter. 

Our Mission

To inspire the generosity of our community to create a lasting impact.

​We help visionary donors practice highly effective charitable giving; award grants to not-for-profits doing good in the community; award scholarships to ease the financial burden of education for students; provide leadership to make Decatur County a better community.

Online Scholarships

The following scholarships are managed by the Decatur County Community Foundation. Complete details for each scholarship are available on the individual online scholarship application.

Colleen Bray Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is for students seeking certification in dog grooming, vet tech, or any secondary education in animal sciences. 

The William P. and Janet C. McCormack Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports high school seniors from New Britain or Berlin who excel academically, ranking in the top 20% of their class. Eligible students must pursue a bachelor’s degree at an accredited institution and demonstrate commitment to community service. This scholarship also considers work experience and financial need, requiring a personal essay to highlight the applicant's achievements and aspirations.

The Marie K. Coleman Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, aims to support students pursuing educational opportunities. This scholarship awards $2,000 to eligible candidates who demonstrate financial need and hold a minimum GPA of 2.5. Priority is given to first-generation college students, particularly those interested in business or accounting. Applicants must provide two letters of recommendation and participate in school and community activities.

The Second Chances Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, supports non-traditional students seeking to complete their degrees. With awards ranging from $500 to over $5,000, this scholarship aims to make education accessible for those returning to school. Payments are made directly to institutions in August and January, ensuring that funds are available when needed. This initiative honors Kay Billings, who dedicated her life to education and fostering student success.

The Arnold D. Ducanes, MD Scholarship, administered by the Decatur County Community Foundation, supports Greensburg Community High School graduates pursuing post-secondary education in Allied Health. The scholarship aims to ease educational financial burdens while fostering community health professionals. If no qualified applicants are found, it may extend to deserving Decatur County residents already enrolled in the field. Notably, members of the Ducanes family are ineligible for this award.

The Joan and Wade Webster Scholarship Program, established by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry in 1995, aims to provide annual post-secondary educational scholarships for students in southern Beaufort County. It supports those with a minimum GPA of 3.0 who demonstrate a commitment to sound financial principles. This scholarship not only aids in educational pursuits but also encourages students to develop financial self-sufficiency, ultimately empowering them to positively impact their community.

The Gary & Helen Howell Family Scholarship Fund, established by the Erie Community Foundation, offers financial support to high school seniors from local schools such as McDowell and Cathedral Prep who demonstrate financial need and have a GPA of 3.0 or higher. In 2023, the foundation awarded over $800,000 in scholarships to more than 500 students pursuing post-secondary education, showcasing its commitment to enhancing educational opportunities in the community.