Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in South Dakota

The E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation, established in 1975, supports public charities with a focus on Asian art, performing arts in Richmond, VA, and graduate theological education. The Foundation prioritizes requests from organizations with historical ties to the Carpenters and those promoting LGBTQ+ inclusion and community health. It aims to enhance cultural exchange through art exhibitions, particularly in the US and China, while excluding support for private education and large public charities.

The LaMantia Family Scholarship, offered by the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF), aims to support outstanding Italian American students pursuing studies in computer science or STEM fields. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher and hold an active NIAF membership, which can be obtained through a parent or grandparent. This scholarship promotes the importance of Italian heritage while encouraging academic excellence in the next generation of leaders.

The NewSchools: Teaching Reimagined Grant offers a unique funding opportunity of $150,000 to $250,000 for innovative ideas aimed at reimagining the role of educators and enhancing student outcomes. With a focus on leveraging generative AI, the grant supports early-stage organizations and initiatives that prioritize diverse teaching strategies and community involvement. The application deadline is January 8, 2026, with a priority deadline of December 1, 2025, for updates on eligibility.

The John William Pope Foundation offers annual grants to support public policy research promoting a free-market economy and individual liberty under the rule of law. Emphasizing the importance of property rights and personal initiative, the foundation welcomes proposals from tax-exempt organizations, particularly those impacting public policy in North Carolina. By focusing on long-term solutions rather than short-term aid, the foundation aims to empower communities and foster sustainable economic growth.

The DoW Neurofibromatosis Investigator-Initiated Research Award addresses critical needs in neurofibromatosis research, aiming to enhance patient care through innovative projects. It supports various research phases, excluding clinical trials, and encourages collaboration between scientists and clinicians. The funding mechanism includes two levels based on participation in optional features, such as the Open Science Initiative and collaboration with qualified partners, promoting data sharing and collaborative research efforts.

The FY26 Neurofibromatosis Research Academy – Scholar Award supports early-career independent investigators focusing on neurofibromatosis research. Scholars are required to be within 10 years of their terminal degree and must designate a Career Guide for mentorship, fostering collaboration. This initiative aims to advance impactful research and develop skilled researchers in a supportive environment, addressing critical areas of emphasis in neurofibromatosis research.

The FY26 Neurofibromatosis Research Program's Exploration-Hypothesis Development Award encourages innovative, high-risk research concepts in neurofibromatosis (NF). This award aims to support groundbreaking studies that will pave the way for future scientific inquiries. Proposals should present a well-defined, testable hypothesis grounded in sound scientific rationale. While preliminary data is encouraged, it is not a prerequisite for submission, allowing researchers to explore novel paradigms and perspectives in NF research.

The College Life Protected: Professional Development Grant, established by GradGuard, supports professional development opportunities for individuals in higher education. Eligible applicants can seek funding for initiatives such as conference fees and training institutes that directly enhance student success and professional growth. The grant prioritizes projects that build skills and networks, ultimately improving the educational experience. This initiative emphasizes the importance of higher education as a public good and encourages ongoing professional development within the community.

The Hanger Foundation's Veteran Grant aims to empower veterans facing physical challenges by providing support for rehabilitation services and athletic programs. This grant seeks to positively impact veterans' lives, particularly those with limb differences, through community engagement and employee involvement in charitable efforts. With a focus on 501(c)(3) organizations, the foundation invests in projects that address trauma and promote social activities, ensuring that veterans receive the assistance they need.

Family Medicine Cares USA offers grants up to $25,000 to support the establishment of new free clinics. Eligible applicants must either have opened or plan to open within six months of the application deadline and hold the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics Seal of Excellence. Priority is given to clinics with an AAFP member as medical director and those engaging Family Medicine residents or medical students as volunteers. Applications are accepted annually from March 15 to July 15.

The Worden Christian Youth Ministry Scholarship supports full-time students entering their third or fourth year at an accredited four-year college or university, who plan to pursue a career in youth ministry. Candidates must demonstrate financial need and engage in school and community activities. Preference is given to those intending to serve as youth ministers in the Sioux Falls area, ensuring that the scholarship aligns with the mission of enriching local lives through philanthropy.

The Bill and Joyce Coborn Memorial Scholarship supports Coborn's employees and their dependents pursuing private high school or post-secondary education. Offered by CommunityGiving, this scholarship provides up to 20 awards of $1,000 each, fostering educational advancement and community empowerment. Eligible applicants include high school seniors, college students, and graduate students who are children of Coborn's employees with at least one year of service. This initiative honors the legacy of Bill and Joyce Coborn while promoting lifelong learning.

Scholarships for High School Seniors

Mid-Shore Community Foundation awards scholarships to high school seniors in Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot Counties, who are planning to attend a college, university, or trade school. In general, scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate academic achievement, community service, financial need, and other criteria specified by the donor.

Kate Elliott Shannahan Trades Scholarship

Awarded to students graduating from Talbot County Public Schools, who are planning to attend a vocational, trade, or career school.

The Achievement Annual Scholarship, offered by the CIRI Foundation, supports Alaska Native students pursuing higher education. This merit-based scholarship awards up to $8,000 for one academic year, covering direct educational costs and personal expenses. Applicants must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and be enrolled full-time in a 4-year undergraduate or graduate program. The scholarship aims to promote academic excellence and career development while honoring the cultural legacy of Alaska Natives.

The Community Foundation’s scholarships are for Arkansas students pursuing education at two- or four-year colleges or universities, vocational schools or technical training programs. Each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria. Some scholarships are designated for graduates of a particular high school or those who plan to attend a particular college. Others are based on extracurricular activities or intended college majors.  

The Foundation has a scholarship portal with a quiz to help applicants determine scholarship eligibility. 

“Since 1976, the Community Foundation has partnered with individuals and organizations who want to support our state’s students in their pursuit of higher education,” said Heather Larkin, Community Foundation president and CEO. “These generous people provide the funding and determine the size and eligibility criteria of each scholarship, while we oversee the application and awarding process on their behalf.”  

Clay and Margaret Godfrey Memorial Agricultural Scholarship

For students enrolled in college pursuing a degree in agricultural science. 

The Spirit of Sioux Falls Scholarship supports college students pursuing business degrees while emphasizing community engagement and academic excellence. Eligible applicants must reside in Lincoln or Minnehaha County, South Dakota, and maintain full-time enrollment in appropriate programs. The scholarship aims to inspire philanthropy and improve local quality of life through educational advancement. Notably, previous recipients are ineligible for reapplication, ensuring fresh opportunities for new candidates. Multiple awards are available, promoting further education in the business field.

The Community Foundation’s scholarships are for Arkansas students pursuing education at two- or four-year colleges or universities, vocational schools or technical training programs. Each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria. Some scholarships are designated for graduates of a particular high school or those who plan to attend a particular college. Others are based on extracurricular activities or intended college majors.  

The Foundation has a scholarship portal with a quiz to help applicants determine scholarship eligibility. 

“Since 1976, the Community Foundation has partnered with individuals and organizations who want to support our state’s students in their pursuit of higher education,” said Heather Larkin, Community Foundation president and CEO. “These generous people provide the funding and determine the size and eligibility criteria of each scholarship, while we oversee the application and awarding process on their behalf.”  

Robert P. Atkinson Hospital Leadership and Scholarship

Provides a scholarship to students pursuing an advanced degree with an emphasis in healthcare and/or hospital administration.

The Granite Scholarship Fund, established by the Granite Companies, offers scholarships to the children and grandchildren of employees, supporting their educational goals. With up to 30 scholarships of $2,000 available annually, this initiative aims to empower students, ensuring that their academic pursuits are supported as they strive for excellence. Eligibility requires maintaining a GPA of 3.0 or higher and enrollment in a two or four-year college or university. This fund exemplifies the commitment to community and education.

The Garrison Area Scholarship Fund, supported by CommunityGiving, offers three $1,000 scholarships to local high school seniors pursuing higher education. This initiative aims to empower students from Aitkin, Brainerd, Crosby-Ironton, and Onamia. By fostering educational opportunities, the fund upholds the mission of CommunityGiving to strengthen local communities and inspire philanthropy. Eligible applicants must submit online applications and have a Scholarship Management System account to apply. Join us in supporting the future of our youth.

The Gilead Research Scholars Program in Oncology supports innovative research from emerging investigators worldwide, focusing on scientific understanding and progress in cancer treatment. Launched in 2008, it offers financial support of up to $180,000 over two years to junior faculty who meet eligibility criteria. The program emphasizes diversity and aims to reduce barriers for underrepresented groups in research, fostering a more inclusive landscape in addressing unmet medical needs.

The Agnes E. Vaghi Scholarship, offered by the National Italian American Foundation, supports outstanding female Italian American undergraduates majoring in Italian, English, literature, or journalism. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher and hold an active NIAF membership, which can be obtained through a parent or grandparent. This scholarship aims to promote the rich cultural heritage of Italian Americans while encouraging academic excellence.

The PCORI Engagement Award: Convening Support Grant invites Letters of Intent for projects that facilitate multi-party convenings, fostering collaboration among patients, families, caregivers, and the healthcare community. With a funding limit of $125,000 for projects lasting up to one year, applicants can choose to focus on Patient-Centered CER discussions or dissemination of PCORI findings. This initiative aligns with PCORI’s mission to enhance patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research.

The PCORI Engagement Award: Capacity Building aims to enhance the capacity of patients and stakeholders in patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research (CER). Projects can last up to two years with funding up to $300,000. Successful proposals will demonstrate understanding of CER, community engagement, and commitment from stakeholders. The initiative encourages the use of existing tools and resources to foster patient involvement in research processes, aligning with national health priorities and addressing pressing healthcare issues.

The Engagement Award: Dissemination Initiative, part of the Eugene Washington PCORI program, focuses on promoting active involvement of patients, families, and caregivers in health research. It supports organizations in effectively communicating PCORI-funded research findings to their audiences, enhancing understanding and application in healthcare decisions. Projects must demonstrate stakeholder engagement and a solid evaluation plan. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between research and community application, ensuring impactful dissemination of critical health information.

The A. Lucchetti Martino Scholarship is awarded to outstanding Italian American undergraduate students majoring in International Relations, requiring a minimum GPA of 3.5. Applicants must hold an active NIAF Membership, which can be obtained through a parent or grandparent. This scholarship fosters commitment to Italian culture and heritage while supporting students enrolled full-time in U.S. accredited institutions. The National Italian American Foundation, a non-profit organization, promotes the rich traditions and contributions of Italian Americans.

The CAA Professional Development Fellowship in Art History provides crucial support for recent PhD graduates and scholars from multicultural and underrepresented backgrounds in the field of art history. This fellowship awards $10,000 to assist with job-search expenses, image licensing, and publishing costs. Additionally, each recipient gains a one-year CAA membership and free registration for the upcoming Annual Conference, encouraging diverse voices in the art community to flourish.

Scholarships for High School Seniors

Mid-Shore Community Foundation awards scholarships to high school seniors in Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot Counties, who are planning to attend a college, university, or trade school. In general, scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate academic achievement, community service, financial need, and other criteria specified by the donor.

Omer and Marie Dulin Scholarship

Awarded to Mid-Shore students, who are planning to pursue programs in Agriculture.