Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in South Dakota

The CPIC Scholars Program, part of the Rare Diseases Clinical Research Network (RDCRN), offers education and career development opportunities for early-stage faculty and fellows. This initiative aims to foster the research careers of the next generation, focusing on congenital cytomegalovirus, neonatal herpes simplex virus, and enterovirus sepsis. Scholars engage in research projects and participate in CPIC Scholar Circles, enhancing their professional skills and knowledge in rare disease research.

The 1st Financial Bank USA Scholarship, established in 2021 by the Siouxland Community Foundation, aims to support graduating seniors from low to moderate-income families in Union County, South Dakota. This scholarship provides financial assistance for students pursuing post-secondary education at accredited colleges or universities. Eligible applicants include seniors from local high schools such as Alcester-Hudson and Beresford, ensuring that deserving students have the opportunity to further their education.

The Dean and Janice Butts Scholarship aims to support students pursuing post-secondary education, vocational training, or college, with a preference for students of color. This initiative is part of a broader commitment by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc. to address various community needs, including education and wellness, while fostering awareness and creative solutions to future challenges.

The Earl and Jane Ferguson Scholarship Fund provides financial support to graduates of Klamath County high schools who wish to pursue higher education across the United States. This initiative aims to empower local students by making education more accessible, thereby fostering academic growth and community development. The fund is managed by The Oregon Community Foundation, a private organization dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for deserving individuals.

About The NRA Foundation

The heart of The NRA Foundation’s mission is preserving the core of our American values and traditions in our steadfast effort to Teach Freedom.

The NRA Foundation Supports Freedom, Family, and the Future of the Shooting Sports

Established in 1990, The NRA Foundation, Inc. (“NRA Foundation”) is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization that raises tax-deductible contributions in support of a wide range of firearm-related public interest activities of the National Rifle Association of America and other organizations that defend and foster the Second Amendment rights of all law-abiding Americans.

The heart of The NRA Foundation’s mission is preserving the core of our American values and traditions in our steadfast effort to Teach Freedom.

Established in 1990, The NRA Foundation, Inc. (“NRA Foundation”) is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization that raises tax-deductible contributions in support of a wide range of firearm-related public interest activities of the National Rifle Association of America and other organizations that defend and foster the Second Amendment rights of all law-abiding Americans. These activities are designed to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those participating in the shooting sports, and to educate the general public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context. Funds granted by The NRA Foundation benefit a variety of constituencies throughout the United States including children, youth, women, individuals with physical disabilities, gun collectors, law enforcement officers, hunters and competitive shooters.

The Annual NRA Club Awards Program

Each year the National Rifle Association recognizes outstanding clubs, state associations, youth clubs and an individual or organization for public service. The Annual Awards program recognizes significant accomplishments achieved in areas of organization, operation and public service rendered. 

Public Service Awards

The Public Service Award is presented to the individual who has most generously volunteered their time and services on behalf of the shooting sports. The recipient of this award is instrumental in promoting the objectives of the NRA on a NATIONAL level or whose activities have had NATIONAL impact.

All Club Award recipients receive:

• A free range evaluation from an NRA Range Team Advisor
• A free year of club membership
• $1,000 award

About The NRA Foundation

The heart of The NRA Foundation’s mission is preserving the core of our American values and traditions in our steadfast effort to Teach Freedom.

The NRA Foundation Supports Freedom, Family, and the Future of the Shooting Sports

Established in 1990, The NRA Foundation, Inc. (“NRA Foundation”) is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization that raises tax-deductible contributions in support of a wide range of firearm-related public interest activities of the National Rifle Association of America and other organizations that defend and foster the Second Amendment rights of all law-abiding Americans.

The heart of The NRA Foundation’s mission is preserving the core of our American values and traditions in our steadfast effort to Teach Freedom.

Established in 1990, The NRA Foundation, Inc. (“NRA Foundation”) is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization that raises tax-deductible contributions in support of a wide range of firearm-related public interest activities of the National Rifle Association of America and other organizations that defend and foster the Second Amendment rights of all law-abiding Americans. These activities are designed to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those participating in the shooting sports, and to educate the general public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context. Funds granted by The NRA Foundation benefit a variety of constituencies throughout the United States including children, youth, women, individuals with physical disabilities, gun collectors, law enforcement officers, hunters and competitive shooters.

Awards

The NRA is proud to recognize the contributions of those who have demonstrated dedication to the promotion of the Second Amendment, significantly impacted the preservation of the shooting sports, advanced the purposes and goals of the NRA and exemplified leadership through public service. Each year, women, youth, clubs, law enforcement officers and NRA Foundation volunteers are awarded for their efforts in pursuit of these principles.

NRA Law Enforcement Instructor Of The Year

The recipient is selected by NRA Law Enforcement Division staff and must be a currently certified NRA Law Enforcement Firearm Instructor. The winner will receive a plaque and a firearm, donated by Smith & Wesson, in recognition for this achievement.

The Award for Graduate Study in American History, offered by the National Society of The Colonial Dames of America in the State of Illinois (NSCDA-IL), provides $3,000 annually to a graduate student. This award supports research that enhances understanding of America's development from colonial times to the present, with a preference for those intending to teach. NSCDA-IL fosters appreciation for our national heritage through educational initiatives and historic preservation.

The NSF STEM K-12 program supports transformative research to enhance STEM education across various settings. Focusing on innovative projects, it aims to improve teaching and learning through the integration of emerging technologies, including AI. Proposals may address any STEM field, fostering collaboration between research and educational practice. By generating new knowledge and tools, this initiative seeks to strengthen the U.S. position in global STEM innovation and improve educational outcomes for learners of all ages.

The Kind World Foundation Scholarship, established in 2008 by the Kind World Foundation, aims to support graduating seniors from various Siouxland high schools who demonstrate financial need. This scholarship reflects the foundation's commitment to enhancing the quality of life in the Siouxland community, which includes Sioux City, Iowa, and surrounding areas. By providing financial assistance, the scholarship helps students pursue their dreams of higher education and empowers them to achieve their post-secondary goals.

The Walt Fiegel Scholarship, established by Sioux City East High School alumni in 2004, honors coach Walt Fiegel's legacy by supporting graduating seniors from specific high schools in Sioux City and surrounding areas. This scholarship aims to assist students pursuing post-secondary education, whether at a college, university, or vocational institute. Recipients are selected based on academic performance, character, extracurricular involvement, and essay submissions, ensuring a fair and merit-based evaluation process.

The Spotlight Fund: Arts Grants support K-12 educators by providing funding for essential tools and materials to enhance art education. With grants ranging from $500 to $1,000 per educator, the program prioritizes educators in high-needs schools, fostering creativity and reducing dropout rates among at-risk youth. By engaging children in various art forms, the initiative enriches their educational experience and opens up future possibilities. This targeted support is vital for cultivating a new generation of artists and creative thinkers.

The Spotlight Fund Grants, specifically the STEM Fund, provide essential funding for K-12 educators to enhance their curriculum with necessary tools and materials for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math education. Aimed at supporting under-served communities, these grants typically range from $500 to $1,000 per educator, with a cap of $5,000 per school. Priority is given to educators from high-needs schools, ensuring equitable access to quality STEM education.

The Darlene Hooley Scholarship for Oregon Veterans supports military veterans who served in the post-9/11 conflict, prioritizing those in the Oregon National Guard and Reservists. This scholarship is designed for students enrolling in higher education institutions across the United States, providing financial assistance to those who have bravely served their country.

The UHCCF Medical Grant provides financial assistance to families with children under 16 years old who need access to medical services not fully covered by insurance. The grant offers up to $5,000 per year, with a lifetime maximum of $10,000. Families can apply regardless of their insurance provider, and the grant covers a wide range of medical expenses, ensuring children receive essential health care. Applicants must meet specific income and eligibility criteria to qualify for funding.

The Diekemper Sofia Scholarship, established by Mrs. Lou Dunn Diekemper, supports students aged 40 and older enrolled in the global program at Sofia University in Palo Alto, California. This initiative, part of the Community Foundation of West Texas, aims to create a lasting impact on students' lives through educational opportunities. By fostering personal growth and development, the scholarship helps build a stronger future for individuals and the community as a whole.

Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation

Vision: We envision a vibrant, prosperous northern Chautauqua community, rich in opportunity today and tomorrow.

Our Mission

To realize our vision we focus on:

• strategic and responsive grant making
• encouraging local philanthropy and building permanent endowments for the future
• actively serving as a community leader and partner for the benefit and enrichment in our community.

Scholarships

Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation proudly manages over 200 individual scholarship funds,

St. Joseph School Scholarship

The St. Joseph School Scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior who resides in northern Chautauqua County, and intends to pursue a career teaching children with special needs.

The AFM Local 802 Musicians’ Emergency Relief Fund provides emergency financial assistance to eligible performing arts and entertainment professionals facing unexpected critical needs. This fund supports basic living expenses, including healthcare, housing, and utilities, to help prevent eviction or shut-offs. To qualify, applicants must be current members in good standing and demonstrate financial need. However, the fund does not cover expenses such as credit cards, personal loans, and tuition.

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties. In 2025, more than $1,000,000 was awarded to local students to help them achieve their educational dreams.

The Church of Christ (Christian Disciples) Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Church of Christ (Christian Disciples) Memorial Scholarship Fund was established to help students who have permanent residence in Carroll County, Ohio or had a permanent residence on the date they began their post high school education.

Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation

Vision: We envision a vibrant, prosperous northern Chautauqua community, rich in opportunity today and tomorrow.

Our Mission

To realize our vision we focus on:

• strategic and responsive grant making
• encouraging local philanthropy and building permanent endowments for the future
• actively serving as a community leader and partner for the benefit and enrichment in our community.

Scholarships

Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation proudly manages over 200 individual scholarship funds,

David J Lewandowski Memorial Award

The David J Lewandowski Memorial Award is presented to a graduating senior from Dunkirk, Forestville, or Fredonia who is entering a career in the trades, agriculture, conservation, forestry, or emergency services.

The American Guild of Musical Artists Relief Fund provides emergency financial assistance to eligible performing arts professionals facing unexpected critical needs. This support aids in covering essential living expenses, including housing, healthcare, and utilities, to help prevent eviction or utility shut-offs. Applicants must be current members in good standing and provide necessary documentation to confirm their eligibility. This fund aims to ensure the well-being of artists during challenging times.

Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation

Vision: We envision a vibrant, prosperous northern Chautauqua community, rich in opportunity today and tomorrow.

Our Mission

To realize our vision we focus on:

• strategic and responsive grant making
• encouraging local philanthropy and building permanent endowments for the future
• actively serving as a community leader and partner for the benefit and enrichment in our community.

Scholarships

Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation proudly manages over 200 individual scholarship funds,

Roger Testrake Memorial Scholarship

The Roger Testrake Memorial Scholarship benefits students residing in Ripley, NY who plan on continuing their education after high school and have a relative who has served in the military.

Roger Testrake was instrumental in building a monument in Ripley to honor all veterans. This scholarship was renamed to honor him for all his perseverance, dedication and hard work on behalf of the Ripley Veterans Roll of Honor Organization. 

The Cottrell Scholar Award supports early career faculty at U.S. and Canadian research universities, fostering innovative research and teaching in Chemistry, Physics, and Astronomy. This prestigious recognition emphasizes the importance of impactful research plans and educational strategies, aiming to enhance undergraduate and graduate science education. The award also encourages academic citizenship and collaboration within institutions, providing funding for three-year projects up to $120,000, thereby promoting excellence in both research and education.

Community Foundation of the North State

The Community Foundation builds trust through relationship, integrity, and by providing safe places for donors to give their resources.

We are a nonprofit, public charity serving the people of Shasta, Siskiyou and Tehama counties, with a mission to impact the region through the power of giving.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of the North State manages many scholarship funds that are awarded to graduating high school seniors as well as students already in an undergraduate program. Some scholarships were started by families or individuals; others by businesses or organizations. All scholarships share one important focus: helping young people reach their educational goals.

The Tom and Nancy Driscoll Foundation Scholarship

Nancy Driscoll’s lifetime wish was to support young women in discovering their “magic.” Whether working directly with young people or coaching board and staff members at organizations large and small, Nancy always found a way to inspire, lift up, and empower.

Nancy was also a protector of nature. Nancy felt that the forests and mountains of Northern California were her temple, and she worked tirelessly to protect wild and sacred places and to bring our community into nature’s presence.

The Tom and Nancy Driscoll Foundation Scholarship was established to benefit and support Siskiyou County high school graduates planning to attend an accredited two or four-year college or vocational school.

Community Foundation of the North State

The Community Foundation builds trust through relationship, integrity, and by providing safe places for donors to give their resources.

We are a nonprofit, public charity serving the people of Shasta, Siskiyou and Tehama counties, with a mission to impact the region through the power of giving.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of the North State manages many scholarship funds that are awarded to graduating high school seniors as well as students already in an undergraduate program. Some scholarships were started by families or individuals; others by businesses or organizations. All scholarships share one important focus: helping young people reach their educational goals.

Shasta Community Health Center Future Workforce Scholarship Fund

Shasta Community Health Center’s Future Workforce Scholarship is available for staff of Shasta Community Health Center, their children, and grandchildren. This scholarship will support high school seniors, college students (two- or four-year school), and trade students pursuing higher education in any field, either at a two- or four-year college or trade school.

Shasta Community Health Center’s mission is to provide high quality health care to our community with compassion and understanding. Our vision is to be a driving force in helping to remove barriers to health care and promote wellness for our entire community. With these scholarships, we encourage the children and grandchildren of our own staff to find a career/job path that contributes to the health and wellbeing of our community as modeled by your parents and grandparents in whatever field of interest appeals to you that serves your community.

Coral Gables Community Foundation

Led by community leaders, the Coral Gables Community Foundation provides the philanthropic conduit to connect individuals and corporations looking to positively impact the success of the community. Now in its 33rd year, the Foundation has been at the forefront of the evolving needs of Coral Gables while effectively bringing together beneficiaries and benefactors to fund programs with the greatest impact and benefit to “The City Beautiful.”

Coral Gables Community Foundation’s Scholarships Program

Coral Gables Community Foundation is honored to partner with our fundholders to administer generous scholarships as well as manage the Foundation’s own scholarship funds.

The Foundation and its fundholders have proudly awarded over $6.7 million in scholarships in just the last decade.

High-Achieving Four-Year Scholarship

This 4-year scholarship is given annually to students who have demonstrated overall academic achievement and dedication to service within the school and in his/her community, and have low family income. The Foundation also considers applicants’ motivation, financial need, and personal experiences.

Maintenance

In order to maintain the scholarship each year, the recipient must maintain a minimum overall 3.0 GPA throughout his/her college studies.

Community Foundation of the North State

The Community Foundation builds trust through relationship, integrity, and by providing safe places for donors to give their resources.

We are a nonprofit, public charity serving the people of Shasta, Siskiyou and Tehama counties, with a mission to impact the region through the power of giving.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of the North State manages many scholarship funds that are awarded to graduating high school seniors as well as students already in an undergraduate program. Some scholarships were started by families or individuals; others by businesses or organizations. All scholarships share one important focus: helping young people reach their educational goals.

The Tom and Nancy Driscoll Foundation Scholarship

Nancy Driscoll’s lifetime wish was to support young women in discovering their “magic.” Whether working directly with young people or coaching board and staff members at organizations large and small, Nancy always found a way to inspire, lift up, and empower.

Nancy was also a protector of nature. Nancy felt that the forests and mountains of Northern California were her temple, and she worked tirelessly to protect wild and sacred places and to bring our community into nature’s presence.

The Tom and Nancy Driscoll Foundation Scholarship was established to benefit and support Siskiyou County high school graduates planning to attend an accredited two or four-year college or vocational school.

The Most Valuable Student Award, offered by the Elks National Foundation, provides scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $7,500 annually for U.S. high school seniors pursuing a four-year degree at accredited colleges or universities. This initiative aims to support students who demonstrate academic excellence and community involvement, ensuring they have access to education that fosters personal and professional growth. For more information, please visit the Elks Foundation website.