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Search Through Grants for Community Service Projects in South Dakota

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.

Grants

The South Dakota Community Foundation offers an array of grants to help state nonprofits realize their dreams and continue investing in their communities. 

Britton Area Foundation Grant

The Britton Area Foundation was established to enrich and promote the future prosperity and quality of life in Britton and surrounding communities.

The following are some of the criteria that the Britton Area Foundation Board of Directors will use in awarding grants.

• VOLUNTEERISM: Projects that involve significant and continuous volunteer support will be considered more favorably over projects with paid staff. BAF feels that it shouldn’t be the sole source of support for any project, and may make awards contingent on proof that there are other sources of funding. The grant may also be in the form of a challenge, to be met dollar for dollar by other sources.

• DISCRIMINATION: Applications from agencies offering services exclusively to one gender, age group or race will be closely scrutinized for discriminatory practices. Funding will be based on the needs of the individuals being served.

• INNOVATION: Our goal is to fund a mix of ongoing and established projects, as well as innovative projects that address existing community needs.

• FUND DISTRIBUTION: Disregarding advised funds designated for specific communities or purposes, the remainder will be distributed to best meet the needs of the area served. Grants will be awarded by the Board of Directors of the Britton Area Foundation based on their evaluation of the applications that are submitted.

• PROJECT LONGEVITY: Some projects seeking funding may be ongoing from, while others begin and end in the same calendar year. Projects for multi-year funding are encouraged, but there will be no promise of funds made available in future years.

• SEED GRANTS: If start-up funds are requested, they will be more favorably looked on if there is supporting evidence indicating a need for the project, support for the project, and the ongoing probability of its success.

• TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: Consultants and technical assistance will be funded if they are integrally related to accomplishing the project’s objectives.

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.

Grants

The South Dakota Community Foundation offers an array of grants to help state nonprofits realize their dreams and continue investing in their communities. 

Clark Area Foundation Grant

The Greater Clark Area Community Foundation (GCACF) will strive to support a broad spectrum of projects intended to improve and enhance the Clark County Area. Determination of recommendation for approval will be based upon need, creativity in addressing community concerns, community volunteer support, and accountability. The GCACF will use this as a guideline to determine the eligibility of your proposed project for funding.

• QUALIFICATION: Purpose of the project should fulfill a community need and preferably involve tangible, measurable, items or projects.

• VOLUNTEERISM: Projects which involve significant and continuous community volunteerism support will be favorably considered.

• DISCRIMINATION: Applications offering services exclusively to one gender, age group, religion or race will be closely scrutinized for discriminatory practices. Funding will be based on the needs of the individual being served.

• INNOVATION: The Clark Area Community Foundation goal is to funds a mix of ongoing, well-established projects as well as innovative projects designed to address existing community needs in innovative ways.

• PARTNERSHIP: The Foundation should not be the sole funding source of any Project and make awards contingent on proof of other funding sources: however, funding percentage of total project is at the discretion of the Foundation. Grants may also be made in the form of a challenge, to be met dollar-for-dollar by other sources. The Foundation prefers to be the last funder. Grants expire one year from the date awarded; if that should happen, the Foundation welcomes the project to reapply.

• CHALLENGE OR MATCHING GRANTS: The Clark Area Community Foundation encourages matching funds from all grant applicants. When the Board perceives the need for more local involvement and support of a given project; it may issue challenge grants in any proportion. Funding may be contingent upon acquisition of the required matching money. There may be times when the Clark Area Community Foundation perceives a need in the community is not being met. The Board then may issue a challenge grant or request a proposal to address that need.

The Community Facilities Grant Program in South Dakota provides essential funding to develop community facilities in rural areas. Eligible projects include health care, public safety, educational services, and utility improvements. Rural communities with populations under 20,000 are eligible, with funding assistance scaled based on median household income. This program aims to enhance the quality of life in rural regions by supporting vital services and infrastructure, ensuring they meet community needs effectively.

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.

Grants

The South Dakota Community Foundation offers an array of grants to help state nonprofits realize their dreams and continue investing in their communities. 

First Fidelity Bank & Tripp County Community Foundation Grant

The First Fidelity Bank/Tripp County Community Foundation operates under the guidelines of the South Dakota Community Foundation and was set up to encourage philanthropy in Tripp County. 

The following criteria are areas of importance to the Tripp County Community Foundation in awarding grants in Tripp County.

• Volunteerism: Projects that involve significant and continuous volunteer support will be considered more favorably over projects with paid staff.
• Matching Funds: The Tripp County Community Foundation should not be the sole source of financial support for any project and may make awards contingent on proof that there are other sources of funding. The grant may also be in the form of a challenge to be met dollar-for-dollar by other sources.
• Non-Discrimination: Applications from organizations offering services exclusively to one gender, age group or race will be closely scrutinized for discriminatory practices. Funding will be based on the needs of the individuals being served.
• Fund Distribution: Grants will be awarded by the Tripp County Community Foundation Board of Directors based on their evaluation of the applications that are submitted.
• Seed Grants: Start-up funds will be looked upon favorably if there is supporting evidence indicating a need for the project, support for the project, and ongoing probability of its success.
• Technical Assistance: Consultants will be funded if they are integrally related to accomplishing the project’s objectives.
• Public vs. Private: The Tripp County Community Foundation Board of Directors will concentrate on funding public, nonprofit organizations, but not to the exclusion of organizations that meet the grant guidelines.

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.

Grants

The South Dakota Community Foundation offers an array of grants to help state nonprofits realize their dreams and continue investing in their communities. 

Langford Area Community Foundation Grant

The Langford Community Foundation (LCF) was established in December 2008 under the support of local community members and the South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF). Through local grant making, the Langford Community Foundation will provide funds through this permanent endowment to carryout projects that can build and sustain the communities of Langford, Pierpont, and Claremont.

The following criteria are areas of importance to the Langford Community Foundation in awarding grants to the communities of Langford, Pierpont, and Claremont.

• Volunteerism: Projects that involve significant and continuous volunteer support will be considered more favorably over projects with paid staff.
• Matching Funds: LCF should not be the sole source of financial support for any project and may make awards contingent on proof that there are other sources of funding. The grant may also be in the form of a challenge to be met dollar-for-dollar by other sources.
• Non-Discrimination: Applications from organizations offering services exclusively to one gender, age group or race will be closely scrutinized for discriminatory practices. Funding will be based on the needs of the individuals being served.
• Innovation: A variety of innovative, ongoing, and established projects that address community needs are important to the LCF.
• Project Longevity: Projects seeking funding may be ongoing or end in the same calendar year. Projects for multi-year funding are encouraged, but there is no promise that funds will be available in future years.
• Seed Grants: Start-up funds will be looked upon favorably if there is supporting evidence indicating a need the project, support for the project, and the ongoing probability of its success.
• Technical Assistance: Consultants will be funded if they are integrally related to accomplishing the project’s objectives.
• Public vs. Private: The LCF Board of Directors will concentrate on funding public nonprofit organizations, but not to the exclusion of organizations that meet the grant guidelines.
• Grant Review Process: The Board will consider applications at the next board meeting. Applications that meet the guidelines will be considered and prioritized according to the guidelines. The full Board will review applications and make awards.

The NorthWestern Energy Impact Analysis Grant Program offers funding for cities, counties, economic development organizations, and non-profits in Montana, South Dakota, and Nebraska. Grant applications are simple, requiring a one-page form, with decisions made within 48 hours. The program aims to assess the economic impacts of local businesses and development projects. Circle Analytics will provide detailed reports on the economic footprint, including job creation and community benefits, to support informed decision-making.

The Small Community Planning Grant Program offers financial assistance to small communities for water and wastewater infrastructure management. Eligible entities can receive up to $10,000 for engineering studies, covering 80% of costs. The program aims to help communities develop necessary engineering reports for their projects. To qualify, communities must serve populations of 2,500 or fewer and meet specific eligibility criteria. This proactive approach ensures that essential infrastructure needs are addressed effectively.

The South Dakota Department of Health offers Civil Money Penalty (CMP) funds to enhance the quality of life for nursing home residents. These funds are derived from penalties imposed on facilities not meeting Medicare and Medicaid standards. Eligible projects include support for residents during facility closures, relocation assistance, and initiatives that promote resident and family engagement in care quality. The program aims to reinvest CMP revenues to benefit vulnerable populations in the state.

The South Dakota Fund Grants provide financial support to non-profit organizations across South Dakota, focusing on culture, economic development, education, and health services. Grants typically range from $2,000 to $20,000, with exceptions possible. Applicants must be public, non-profit organizations or partner with a verified fiscal sponsor. The fund encourages community involvement and matching funds to enhance project sustainability and success.

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.

Grants

The South Dakota Community Foundation offers an array of grants to help state nonprofits realize their dreams and continue investing in their communities. 

Tyndall Community Foundation Grant

The sole purpose of the Tyndall Community Foundation is to support the general welfare of the Tyndall community.

To date, the Tyndall Community Foundation has given back nearly $70,000 in grants to nonprofit groups and organizations in Tyndall.

Qualification

• Purpose of the project should fulfill a community need. (for example: is your project going to benefit the community in general)
• IRS now requires a non-profit organization be verified by the IRS. Proof of non-profit status may be required upon request. Governmental entities (cities, counties, schools) and churches are exempt from the verification requirements and do qualify to receive grant funding.

Discrimination

Applications from agencies offering services exclusively to one gender, age, group or race will be closely scrutinized for discriminatory practices.

Fund Distribution

• Grant applications must be completed in full.
• Grants will be reviewed and awarded at the discretion of the Tyndall Community Foundation Board.
• All applicants will be informed verbally and /or in writing to the approval or disapproval of their application.
• Funds must be used within 12 months from awarding or funds will revert back to the community
• funds account.

Limitations

• Tyndall Community Foundation will grant no more than a maximum of 4.5% of Fund’s Value in any single year.
• Recipients may be eligible for one grant every other year, unless surplus money is available.

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.

Grants

The South Dakota Community Foundation offers an array of grants to help state nonprofits realize their dreams and continue investing in their communities. 

Montrose Area Foundation Grant

The Montrose Area Foundation was established in 2008 to provide financial support to charitable and nonprofit purposes in the Montrose area at the recommendation of a local Board of Directors.

Qualification

Ideal project would involve enhancement of the Montrose community or area. Grant applications for individual financial assistance are not eligible. Purpose of the project should fulfill a community/area need and preferably involve tangible, measurable items, or projects.

Seed Grants

Applications requesting start-up money are encouraged to supply feasibility numbers indicating the need for the project.

Volunteerism

Projects involving significant and continuous community volunteer support will be favorably considered.

Discrimination

Applications from agencies offering services exclusively to one gender, age group, or race will be closely scrutinized for discriminatory practices.

Challenge or Matching Grants

The Montrose Area Foundation encourages, but does not require, matching funds from grant applicants. For some projects, funding may be contingent upon acquisition of the required matching money.

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.

Black Hills Area Community Foundation

We collaborate with our community to strengthen the Black Hills region for everyone.

Our mission is to lead solutions, give with purpose, and thrive together.

We invest in nonprofits, help donors enjoy giving, and manage initiatives to address key issues. We’re the only Community Foundation solely focused on serving the Black Hills area, spanning Butte, Meade, Lawrence, Pennington, Custer, Oglala Lakota, and Fall River counties.

As of 2026, Black Hills Area Community Foundation manages $100 million in assets and has invested more than $45 million in grants and scholarships since its establishment in 2006.

Rapid City Food Services Grant

The Rapid City Food Services Grant supports nonprofit programs that improve access to food for Rapid City residents living in under-resourced areas. The funding will strengthen and expand food services, including addressing gaps in charitable food access after 5 p.m. or on the weekends.

Priority will be given to applications serving areas of greatest concern identified in the Food Security Needs Assessment of Rapid City conducted by Augustana Research Institute. 

Eligible Projects

Applicants can apply for up to $25,000 to support activities in one or both of the following categories:

1. Equipment and infrastructure that establishes, expands, or strengthens services.

• Examples include refrigerators or freezers, signage, vehicles for food transport, storage capacity improvements, or construction costs related to food service expansions.

Funding & reporting structure: Grants for equipment will be awarded through a one-time award. Grantees will be required to attend an in-person meeting or phone conversation within 30 days following the completion of the grant year.

2. Staff or volunteer support to strengthen service availability on evenings or weekends over a three-year period.

Applications must include a plan to expand services to include at least one evening or weekend time slot per week over a three-year period.

• For example, an annual staff stipend or support for volunteer coordination allows a food pantry to expand their hours to include a 3-hour shift on Saturdays.
• For example, staff or volunteer support that increases access to supermarkets or food pantries in the evenings or on weekends.

Funding & Reporting Structure: Grants in this category could be awarded over a period of three years, renewed annually. In this case, the grantee will be responsible for tracking the success of the expansion. Each year, BHACF will check in with the grantee to understand outcomes of the expansion.

Sustainability: Requests for staff or volunteer support must address the long-term sustainability of the expansion. If the service is successful, BHACF will consult with the grantee to determine a plan to sustain the expansion. 

The Working Here Fund Grant supports nonprofit organizations in Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wyoming, providing funding options tailored to rural community needs. With a focus on agricultural education, hunger relief, and disaster assistance, the program has awarded over $13.5 million since 2013. Grants range from $5,000 to $25,000, with eligibility for organizations demonstrating alignment with FCSAmerica's mission. Priority is given to IRS 501(c)(3) nonprofits, fostering sustainable solutions for local challenges.

The Otter Tail Corporation Foundation Grant Program focuses on supporting 501(c)(3) organizations in communities across Arizona, Georgia, Illinois, Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Priorities include early childhood education, health services for families in need, community development, and environmental sustainability. While the 2025 budget is fully allocated, they encourage applications for 2026, emphasizing collaborative projects that create measurable impacts.

The CHS Foundation is dedicated to enhancing agricultural education through its Teacher Grants program, providing up to $50,000 for innovative projects. This initiative aims to engage students in experiential learning within rural communities across various states. By supporting teachers and their creative ideas, the foundation fosters educational growth and prepares future agricultural leaders, ensuring a sustainable and empowered agricultural sector. This commitment reflects CHS's broader mission of community support and development.

The Arts Midwest GIG Fund offers grants ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 to support creative projects and educational events across the Midwest. This funding is available for nonprofit organizations with budgets of $1 million or less, focusing on the arts. Eligible applicants include arts organizations and tribal entities located in specific states. The fund prioritizes those who have not received a grant in the last two years, ensuring diverse cultural engagement and access.

The GIG Fund: Arts and Wellness offers grants ranging from $2,000 to $15,000 to support projects that blend arts and wellness. Open to non-profit organizations, hospitals, and clinics across the Midwest, this fund aims to enhance community well-being through artistic initiatives. Eligible applicants must engage professional artists and provide activities that promote health and creativity. This funding round supports activities occurring between December 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026, emphasizing the importance of arts in fostering wellness.

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.

Grants

The South Dakota Community Foundation offers an array of grants to help state nonprofits realize their dreams and continue investing in their communities. 

First Fidelity Bank & Platte Area Foundation Grant

The First Fidelity Bank & Platte Area Foundation was formed in 1995 when First Fidelity Bank challenged the communities in which they serve to raise money for the future.

The mission of the Platte Area Foundation is to promote philanthropy, receive and administer charitable gifts, and invest in programs that promote the social and economic well being of the people of the Platte and surrounding area.

Volunteerism

Projects which have paid staff but involve significant and continuous community volunteer support to enhance their existing programs will be favorably considered.

Discrimination

Applications from agencies offering services exclusively to one gender, age group, or race will be closely scrutinized for discriminatory practices. Funding will be based on the needs of the individuals being served.

Innovation

The Platte Area Foundation fund ongoing, well established projects as well as innovative projects designed to address existing community needs in innovative ways.

Multi-year Funding

Only proposals for one year will be considered by the Foundation Board. If projects require more than one year to accomplish their objectives, they should submit a letter with the first year application indicating their intent to request additional years of funding. No guarantee of continued funding will be communicated until subsequent grant applications are reviewed. Once initiated under Foundation funding, projects with good track records should be considered favorably in subsequent grant decisions. No more than three years of sequential grant funding shall be awarded to any one grantee for the same purpose.

Challenge or Matching Grants

The Platte Area Foundation encourages matching funds from all grant applicants. When the Board perceives the need for more local involvement and support of a given project in order to establish ownership in the community, it may require challenge grants in any proportion. Funding may be contingent upon acquisition of the required matching money. There may be times when the Platte Area Foundation perceives a need is not being met and may issue a challenge grant or request for proposal to participate in a challenge grant to address that need.

The Bush Fellowship empowers individuals across various sectors to amplify their leadership and drive community change. Offering up to $150,000 over two years, it supports personal growth and networking for selected Fellows. Applicants must be at least 24 years old and residents of specific states or Native nations. The program is competitive, with over 600 applications in recent years. It emphasizes equitable leadership and a commitment to making impactful changes within communities.

The Sam F. Weller Family Foundation Grant supports charitable projects in Mitchell, South Dakota, aimed at enhancing economic development and addressing community issues. Eligible non-profit organizations can apply for funding for innovative programs that require startup funds, community studies, and educational initiatives. The foundation prioritizes projects that foster social change and improve the effectiveness of local organizations. However, it does not fund ongoing operational support or sectarian purposes.

The Excellence in Education Teacher Mini-Grant Program, provided by the Siouxland Community Foundation, aims to enhance educational quality for children in Siouxland. Grants of up to $500 for individual teachers and $1,000 for teams support innovative classroom projects that improve student learning. This initiative addresses the critical role of teachers in fostering student success by offering funding for resources often unavailable through traditional channels, thus promoting creativity and engagement in education.

The Region 4 Professional Development Awards for 2025-2026 foster the growth of health information access and data science skills among network members. This funding supports diverse projects such as workshops, conferences, and educational activities aimed at enhancing the professional capacity of individuals affiliated with NNLM Region 4. By encouraging proposals that address the needs of underrepresented communities, the awards aim to improve health information services and access across the region.

Curtis Marvin Hohn Endowment

To provide financial support to South Dakota students attending an in-state institution of higher learning and that demonstrate a commitment to public service.

Applicants for the Curtis Marvin Hohn Legacy Scholarship will reflect the values that embodied Curt Hohn's life. These characteristics may include, but are not limited to:

• Personal integrity, individual character, and courage
• Leadership in school and community
• Demonstrated involvement in civic affairs
• Participation in organizations that shape the school and community
• Individual leadership to reform policies that benefit the public good of the school and community
• Demonstrated work ethic in the school and community
• Demonstrated interest in national and global issues that impact the public interest
• Demonstrated interest in humanitarian issues

This scholarship was established to celebrate the life and accomplishments of Curtis M. Hohn, a prominent figure in South Dakota's water policy landscape, renowned for his service as a public servant, community activist, and leader. Curtis held several key positions, including serving on the staff of U.S. Senator George McGovern, directing the United Family Farmers organization, and managing the Oahe Conservancy Subdistrict. He played a crucial role in assessing the Oahe Irrigation Project and negotiating legislative settlements for alternative water projects. Moreover, Curtis led negotiations between the local Oahe Subdistrict with Congress and the U.S. Department of the Interior. Notably, he played a pivotal role in the implementation of South Dakota's first major pipeline project utilizing Missouri River water.

Curt was an avid reader of history. His lifetime commitment of political courage and public service are reflected in the words of Robert F. Kennedy, a man Curt deeply admired and often quoted - "Few will have the greatness to bend history itself; but each of us can work to change a small portion of events, and in the total of all those acts will be written the history of this generation."

 Parkston Area Foundation 

The Parkston Area Foundation (PAF) is a tax-exempt organization developed in 2004. Our mission is to promote philanthropy and support a wide range of social, economic, and charitable needs in the greater Parkston area.

The purpose of the PAF Board is to raise funds to create a community savings account which will grow and benefit the communities of Dimock, Milltown, Hillside, and Parkston. The funds are deposited with the South Dakota Community Foundation which invests the dollars and annually returns earned interest to the PAF for grant distributions. The Parkston Area Foundation has been annually awarding grants to support the community since 2007.

Grants

Since 2007, the Parkston Area Foundation has combined efforts with the Opie R. Benson and Helen A. Benson Community Improvement Foundation as well as the Avera St. Benedict Foundation in awarding grants every year. In 2007, the three foundations pooled monies and granted a total of $10,000 in funds. Since 2008, the foundations have continued to work together giving out grants each year, but have since each designated specific amounts to recipients.

Parkston Area Foundation Grant

Qualification

Purpose of the project should fulfill a community need and should involve a tangible and measurable means of evaluation.

Volunteerism

Projects that involve significant and continuous community volunteer support will be favorably considered.

Innovation

The Parkston Area Foundation (PAF) funds ongoing, well-established projects as well as innovative projects designed to address existing community needs in innovative ways.

Discrimination

Applications from persons and/or agencies offering services exclusively to one gender, age group, or race will be closely scrutinized for discriminatory practices. Funding will be based on the needs of the individuals being served.

Continued Funding

No guarantee of continued funding will be communicated until subsequent grant applications are reviewed. However, once initiated under foundation funding, projects with a good track record will be considered favorably in subsequent grant decisions. No more than three years of sequential grant funding shall be awarded to any one grantee for the same purpose.

Challenge Grants

The PAF encourages matching funds from all grant applicants. When the board perceives the need for more local involvement and support of a given project, it may issue challenge grants in any proportion. Funding may be contingent upon acquisition of the required matching money. There may be times when the PAF perceives a need in the community currently not being met. The board then may issue a challenge grant to the community or request a proposal to address that particular need.

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.

Grants

The South Dakota Community Foundation offers an array of grants to help state nonprofits realize their dreams and continue investing in their communities. 

Beresford Area Foundation Grant

The Beresford Area Foundation (BAF) promotes philanthropy and invests in a wide range of programs that contribute to our community's social, health, economic and well-being. Beresford Area Foundation’s annual grant program is made possible by generous donors who have contributed general and area-of-interest gifts which allow us to respond to community needs, changing opportunities and challenges. Beresford Area Foundation is an agent of the South Dakota Community Foundation.

Grant Program Objectives

Beresford Area Foundation strives to support a broad spectrum of programs and projects through nonprofit organizations that focus on emerging community needs, arts and culture, education, health and human services, economic development, historical significance, and community and civic engagement. BAF grant funds will NOT be awarded to subsidize normal operating expenses, elimination of budget deficit, annual fund drives, and capital campaigns. The foundation will not continually support the same project. BAF funds ongoing and established programs as well as innovative projects that address existing community needs. Grant funds may only be used for the purpose stated on the application.

The Media Partnerships Program, funded by the Bush Foundation, supports nonprofit media organizations in Minnesota and surrounding areas. It provides three-year operating grants to enhance news coverage, foster community engagement, and ensure diverse voices are represented. By promoting transparency and editorial independence, the program aims to amplify storytelling that addresses local issues, ultimately strengthening the region's informational landscape. Eligible organizations can receive up to $150,000 in support to further their mission while collaborating with the Foundation.