Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in South Dakota

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

The Sorenson Legacy Foundation Grant aims to improve lives through support for education, health care, community development, and innovation. Established by James and Beverley Sorenson, the foundation focuses on enhancing art education, medical technologies, and community assistance in Utah. It prioritizes projects that foster artistic growth, promote innovative solutions, and address health care challenges while aiding vulnerable populations. The foundation's commitment to enriching lives reflects a deep-rooted belief in the power of education and community engagement.

The Doyle Undergraduate Fellowship, offered by New Hampshire Sea Grant, provides a unique opportunity for undergraduates to engage in marine resource projects while receiving mentorship and training. This paid fellowship supports students interested in marine-related research and education, with potential earnings of up to $5,000 over a 10-week summer period. By participating, fellows gain valuable insights into coastal and marine management, enhancing their skills and expanding their professional networks.

The Therapeutic Giving initiative by Johnson & Johnson focuses on funding programs in neuroscience aimed at enhancing patient access to treatments and promoting health equity. Nonprofit organizations classified as 501(c)(3) can apply for support from March 1 to May 31. The initiative emphasizes innovative, measurable programs in areas like Alzheimer’s disease and mental health, prioritizing those that address healthcare disparities and improve quality of life for affected individuals.

The Therapeutic Giving: Oncology program by Johnson & Johnson focuses on funding initiatives that enhance patient access to treatments and services, promote health equity, and strengthen healthcare workforces. It supports programs that raise disease awareness, empower patients, and improve health systems with measurable outcomes. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status, emphasizing innovative programs addressing healthcare disparities and unmet needs.

The NCR-SARE Farmer Rancher Grant Program provides critical funding for farmers and ranchers seeking sustainable agricultural solutions. Launched in 1992, this competitive program supports innovative on-farm research and education projects, allowing individuals to apply for grants up to $15,000 or collaborate for up to $30,000. By empowering farmers with resources, NCR-SARE encourages practices that enhance livelihoods while promoting environmental stewardship.

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 Therapeutic Giving program from Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine aims to support local and regional organizations focused on improving patient access to treatment and advancing health equity. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, with funding preferences for programs that address significant healthcare disparities, mental health initiatives, and innovative solutions with measurable outcomes. The application period for local organizations runs from March 1 to May 31, while national organizations can apply in September.

The U.S. Healthcare Donations program by Amgen aims to support not-for-profit organizations in the healthcare sector. As a leading biotechnology company, Amgen provides funding for initiatives that improve science, technology, education, and public awareness on medical conditions. Organizations eligible for funding must be tax-exempt entities, focusing on genuine philanthropic efforts that align with Amgen's mission to enhance health outcomes and reduce the burden of diseases.

The Entergy Charitable Foundation Grant focuses on supporting initiatives that foster thriving communities through education, poverty solutions, and environmental programs. The foundation prioritizes funding for 501(c)(3) organizations and similar entities. Key areas include education development, innovative poverty solutions, and environmental restoration efforts, such as coastal wetland preservation. Organizations are encouraged to apply at least three months before funding is needed, ensuring timely support for impactful community projects.

The WNAN Natural History Research Grant supports research in biological natural history within western North America. Grants of up to $2,500 are available for five authors to assist with travel, supplies, and other research-related expenses. This initiative particularly encourages applicants from institutions where research is not the primary focus, aiming to foster diverse contributions to natural history.

The WaterSMART: Desalination Construction Projects initiative by the Bureau of Reclamation aims to enhance water supply reliability through cooperative funding and support for desalination facilities. This program aligns with federal priorities to improve energy and resource management, encouraging proposals that diversify local water sources. By focusing on innovative solutions to water scarcity, the initiative promotes sustainable water management practices, especially for growing communities facing water shortages.

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 Thornton S. Glide, Jr. and Katrina D. Glide Foundation provides grants to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations in California that focus on animal protection, land conservancy, agriculture, and civic endeavors. Established in 1995, the foundation prioritizes grants for specific capital acquisitions and does not support operational costs or direct aid to individuals. Emphasizing local impact, California-based organizations are favored over out-of-state counterparts.

TC Energy’s Build Strong program supports vital organizations in communities near its operations. By providing grants, scholarships, and in-kind support, the program aims to enhance safety, education, environmental protection, and community well-being. Eligible applicants include non-profits and community groups addressing local needs. Ineligible activities include operational expenses and for-profit endeavors. The program prioritizes projects demonstrating measurable community impact, fostering a collaborative relationship between TC Energy and local stakeholders.

The Maine Cancer Foundation is seeking proposals for cancer screening initiatives aimed at early detection and prevention. This RFP focuses on screenings for breast, cervical, colorectal, lung, prostate, and skin cancers. Proposals should align with evidence-based practices endorsed by the CDC and U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Interested applicants are encouraged to consult with MCF prior to submission to discuss project concepts and receive feedback on draft applications.

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."

The Title XVI Water Reclamation and Reuse Projects, funded by the US Department of the Interior's Bureau of Reclamation, invites proposals for innovative water reuse solutions. This program enhances water supply reliability and supports sustainable practices for urban and agricultural communities. By leveraging Federal and non-Federal resources, the initiative aims to address water scarcity and improve hydropower reliability, aligning with national priorities for energy and resource management.

The Sanitary & Storm Sewer Funding program supports projects aimed at improving wastewater treatment and storm water management in South Dakota. Grants and low-interest loans are available, with eligibility contingent on inclusion in the State Water Facilities Plan. Additional subsidies may be granted based on established water rates and economic development needs. Applications are accepted quarterly, and projects must meet specific requirements to qualify for funding.

The WKKF Grant, offered by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, is dedicated to fostering a future where every child and family thrives. With a focus on nurturing early education, accessible healthcare, and equitable food systems, this grant supports initiatives that empower communities across the U.S. and parts of Mexico and Haiti. Organizations meeting IRS regulations and being legal entities, particularly 501(c)(3) nonprofits, are encouraged to apply for funding to create lasting impacts in their communities.

The NACD Technical Assistance Grants program, in partnership with NRCS, has been enhancing conservation district support since 2018. By funding staff hires, it aims to improve service for agricultural producers and address conservation workload challenges. The initiative focuses on outreach, education, and civic engagement to empower local communities, promote sustainability, and support historically underserved producers in implementing conservation practices, thereby fostering both individual and community resilience.

The WaterSMART Applied Science Grants aim to enhance water management and supply reliability through innovative research and data utilization. By inviting qualified entities to apply for funding, the program focuses on improving hydrologic data access, forecasting capabilities, and modeling tools. This initiative aligns with federal priorities to optimize resources, ensuring water managers can effectively address future demands and adapt to climate challenges, thus fostering resilience in water operations across the nation.

The Kosciuszko Foundation offers Tuition Scholarships for American students of Polish descent pursuing graduate studies in the U.S. Scholarships can provide up to $12,000 for full-time studies, including master's and Ph.D. programs. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal residents with Polish heritage and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. This program aims to foster educational exchanges and cultural understanding between the U.S. and Poland, supporting various fields of study.

The Looking Out Foundation Grant supports social justice and humanitarian initiatives, having donated nearly $6 million to various causes globally. With an average donation of $25 per campaign, it aids organizations focused on disaster relief, racial justice, and support for marginalized communities. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt public charities under Section 501(c)(3). The foundation prioritizes diverse funding sources and encourages organizations to adapt to changing needs, with grant allocations ranging from $5,000 to $25,000.

The Levin Family Foundation Grant supports nonprofits focused on critical issues in Montgomery County, Ohio, such as the opiate epidemic, human trafficking, anti-bullying, and suicide prevention. Established in 1996, the foundation has invested over $12 million globally, emphasizing projects that align with its mission. Eligible organizations must be IRS 501(c)(3) tax-exempt. Priority is given to initiatives in the Greater Dayton Area, fostering positive community impact.

Career and Technical Education

The goal of the South Dakota Department of Education is for all students to graduate college, career, and life ready. The Division of College, Career and Student Success provides support for students' preparations for postsecondary education and the workforce. Services are connected to approved Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs, work-based learning, student organizations and more. In-line with the department's aspiration, DCCSS works to ensure students not only graduate from high school, but that they are prepared to navigate the transitions and life events that come after high school.

Workforce Education Grants

In 2013, the South Dakota Legislature established the Workforce Education Fund through SB 235. Part of that fund was designated to provide grants for Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs in secondary schools.

The Workforce Education Grants provide school districts and private, nonprofit entities who provide specialized training in South Dakota the opportunity to make transformative change in career and technical education programs. High quality CTE programs give students the knowledge, skills and experiences to be well prepared for postsecondary education and the workforce. Partnerships among secondary education, postsecondary education, and business & industry lay the foundation for modern CTE programs.

Grant Purpose & Eligibility

The Workforce Education Grants are designed to demonstrate alignment to postsecondary education and South Dakota workforce needs, developing the state's talent pipeline for workforce development and economic growth. Projects must provide work-readiness training, including technical training. Projects cannot include adult basic education, English learner services, or high school equivalency training programs.

Eligible applicants are private, nonprofit entities that provide specialized career and technical services and education as referenced in SDCL 13-13-89. The entities that are awarded grants will serve as fiscal agents through the completion of their projects. All applications must demonstrate commitment by all grant partners to the grant project and its sustainability following the conclusion of the grant.

Ecolab Foundation

Ecolab Foundation is a philanthropic arm of Ecolab dedicated to advancing community well-being through programs that promote education, environmental stewardship, and public health. Its mission is to create positive social impact by supporting initiatives that strengthen communities and foster sustainable development.

The foundation’s primary areas of engagement include educational programs that enhance learning and workforce readiness, environmental projects that encourage conservation and sustainability, and health-related initiatives that improve hygiene and safety. It focuses on partnerships that deliver measurable benefits and long-term impact.

Ecolab Foundation operates primarily within the United States while also supporting global initiatives aligned with its corporate responsibility goals. Its geographic scope reflects a commitment to addressing local community needs and contributing to broader sustainability efforts.

The foundation collaborates with nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and community-based groups. It prioritizes partnerships that demonstrate strong governance, clear objectives, and alignment with its mission of education, health, and environmental responsibility.

Ecolab Match Program

Ecolab established the Volunteer and Community Relations programs to encourage and reward Ecolab employee and alumni involvement in the communities where people live and work. There are three programs including the Board Leadership Volunteer Grant.

Board Leadership Volunteer Grant

Ecolab will donate up to $500 USD annually to a qualifying 501(c)3 organization (some restrictions apply) for which an eligible person serves on the Board of Directors. 

Focus Areas of Giving

• Youth and Education: programs that promote youth development, particularly for programs that ensure all students are successful
• Civic & Community Development: affordable housing, work readiness, crisis assistance and hunger relief
• Environment & Conservation: hands-on environmental learning programs, environment and conservation organizations
• Arts & Culture: arts education for children and youth as well as support for museums and the performing arts