Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in South Dakota

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Individuals, families, organizations and businesses establish funds at the Foundation to carry out their charitable giving now and in the future.

Community Foundation of Henderson County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public charity, governed by a volunteer board of directors, that has been assisting donors fulfill their philanthropic dreams since 1982.

Our Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.

Scholarships

Community Foundation of Henderson County's Scholarship Program began in 1984. Thanks to the generosity of passionate donors, over 2,000 traditional and non-traditional students have been provided more than $10 million in scholarships to pursue higher education.

Paul and Linda Mulligan Scholarship for Business

This scholarship provides financial support to a graduate or graduating senior of a Henderson County public high school or Venice High School in Sarasota, Florida who is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Business at either a public or a private (non-profit) college or university. 

The schlarship is renewable.

Kalamazoo Community Foundation

Fueling Equity & Racial Justice Since 1925

KZCF is dedicated to our mission to create a thriving community where people, resources and expertise are mobilized to advance racial, social and economic justice in Kalamazoo County.

Scholarships & Education Grants

For All Levels of Education After High School

Kalamazoo Community Foundation is dedicated to creating pathways to higher education so students can thrive in their academic pursuits and for a lifetime. We oversee more than 60 scholarships and education grants (many of which are multiyear awards) for college, graduate school, career training and more.

Evelyn Prince Memorial Scholarship

The Evelyn Prince Memorial Scholarship was created to honor the memory of Evelyn Prince, an avid golfer and academic achiever. Her love for education and athletics continues to inspire, providing opportunities for young women who share her passion for golf and higher learning.

Multiyear Awar; Renews Annually

Kalamazoo Community Foundation

Fueling Equity & Racial Justice Since 1925

KZCF is dedicated to our mission to create a thriving community where people, resources and expertise are mobilized to advance racial, social and economic justice in Kalamazoo County.

Scholarships & Education Grants

For All Levels of Education After High School

Kalamazoo Community Foundation is dedicated to creating pathways to higher education so students can thrive in their academic pursuits and for a lifetime. We oversee more than 60 scholarships and education grants (many of which are multiyear awards) for college, graduate school, career training and more.

Gail & Hilda Oster Scholarship Fund

This scholarship was established through a bequest from the estate of Gail and Hilda Oster for the purpose of providing meaningful support to graduating high school seniors or graduates, who are residents of Van Buren County or graduating high school seniors or graduates of high schools within Van Buren County, who are planning to pursue or are pursuing bachelor's degrees in the fields of education, mathematics or science; or enrolling or enrolled in a Veterinary Technologist or Doctor of Veterinary Medicine programs. Additional application materials are required for this scholarship.

Multiyear Award; Renews Annually

Brian Thiele Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship, established by family and friends in memory of Brian Thiele, provides financial assistance to students who exhibit characteristics similar to those for which Brian is so fondly remembered. This includes playing varsity and/or club soccer, achievement of personal and academic goals, overcoming obstacles to meet his goals, competitive spirit, leadership and a special caring for community. Additional application materials are required for this scholarship.

KZCF scholarships may be applied to any items under your school’s cost of attendance (COA). Each school has a different COA that may include items such as tuition, fees, housing, transportation, food, health insurance, etc. Scholarship payments are sent directly to your institution. 

This scholarship is a one-time award, meaning that it will not repeat in subsequent years. The money awarded can be applied to your education costs alongside other scholarships or funding that you may receive, and there are no necessary steps once funds are sent.

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation

Founded in 1984, we are a 501(c)(3) public charity. Today, we manage more than 1,000 charitable funds, serving as the trusted stewards for more than $390 million in assets.

Our Community Investment team works with local nonprofits, schools and community leaders to identify gaps, assess critical needs and explore opportunities and possibilities. Our Philanthropy team works with individuals, families, advisors, businesses, and nonprofits, offering deep and broad experience and expertise in philanthropic strategy, charitable and organizational endowments, and legacy planning.

Scholarship Opportunities

The Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation manages one of the state's largest scholarship programs, awarding more than $500,000 in scholarships to local students each year. If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, it's likely we have a scholarship that can help you achieve your dream.

Equitable Sioux Empire Scholarship

Awarded to a graduating senior of an accredited public or private high school in the Sioux Falls area. Equitable employees, associates, immediate family members of employees, and associates of the Donor are ineligible for this award.

The AWS District Scholarships, offered by the American Welding Society, provide financial support for students pursuing welder training in certificate programs. Annually, up to 800 scholarships worth $1,000 each are available for those attending accredited trade schools or community colleges. Eligible applicants must reside within AWS District boundaries and plan to attend a qualifying institution. Funds can cover tuition, fees, and necessary supplies, promoting growth in the welding profession.

The Fine Arts Work Center in Provincetown offers a prestigious Writing Fellowship for emerging writers. This seven-month residency, running from October to April, provides a $1250 monthly stipend, private accommodations, and a $1000 exit stipend for relocation. With a legacy of supporting notable writers like Louise Glück and Jhumpa Lahiri, the fellowship emphasizes self-directed creative time. Application fees vary by date, starting at $40, to enhance accessibility for all applicants.

The Helen & Howard R. Marraro Prize in Italian History, awarded annually by the American Historical Association, honors exceptional works in Italian history, cultural history, or Italo-American relations. Established in 1897, this prestigious award recognizes books published in English by North American historians. Currently valued at $1,000, submissions for the 2025 award must have a copyright of 2024. Winners will be announced in October 2025, with a ceremony at the January 2026 AHA annual meeting in Chicago.

The Sarah Scaife Foundation Grant supports public policy initiatives that tackle significant domestic and international challenges. This grant is intended for publicly-supported non-profit organizations and does not extend to individuals or national fundraising groups. Proposals related to event sponsorships, capital campaigns, or organizations reliant on government funding are typically declined. The focus remains on impactful projects that align with the Foundation's mission.

Danial & Joeanna Smith Education Scholarship

The scholarship was established through a bequest from the estate of Danial and Joeanna Smith for the purpose of providing educational scholarships to permanent residents of Van Buren County and who are planning to pursue a bachelor's degree at a four-year college/university. Additional application materials are required for this scholarship.

KZCF scholarships may be applied to any items under your school’s cost of attendance (COA). Each school has a different COA that may include items such as tuition, fees, housing, transportation, food, health insurance, etc. Scholarship payments are sent directly to your institution.

This scholarship is a one-time award, meaning that it will not repeat in subsequent years. The money awarded can be applied to your education costs alongside other scholarships or funding that you may receive, and there are no necessary steps once funds are sent.

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Muskegon Surgical Associates Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the Muskegon Surgical Associates, P.C., who established the Muskegon Surgical Associates Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. The doctors in this surgical group wanted to fulfill their corporate responsibility and contribute back to the community. This scholarship award is for medical school students.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Harry & Helen Davidson Family Scholarship Fund

The Davidson Family Scholarship was established to honor the commitment to education and service to the Battle Creek community of Harry and Helen Davidson. Harry, who served as superintendent of the Battle Creek Public Schools for a number of years, who upon his retirement from the education field, became the first executive director of the Battle Creek Community Foundation. Much of Harry and Helen's work in this community can be exemplified today through development of our fine educational system, the growth of our Community Foundation, and a strong community value for the education of our young people.

Selkirk Pickleball Growth Program

At Selkirk, we are committed to growing the sport of pickleball by making it accessible to everyone. The Selkirk Growth Program enables schools and community programs worldwide to access Selkirk equipment.

Our original goal was to give away 3,000+ paddles a year; we have now given away more than 40,000 paddles since we started in 2019. As part of our Growth Program, we are donating gently-used paddles to:

Schools.

• First responders.
• Senior centers.
• Churches.
• Parks & recreation departments.
• Other community organizations looking to expand their programs.

We will also provide a discount on additional paddles, balls, and nets for schools and charities involved in the program.

VCA Charities offers the Ready for Rescue Grants to support animal welfare organizations in preparing pets for adoption. With a maximum award of $10,000, this program focuses on enhancing the mental and physical well-being of companion animals through various activities, including enrichment and training. Eligible organizations must be registered nonprofits dedicated to animal welfare, adopting out at least 500 pets annually. Applications are accepted twice a year, with deadlines approaching soon.

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Muskegon Eagles / Monsignor Kehren Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the Muskegon Eagles, Chapter 668, and Monsignor Kehren, who established the Muskegon Eagles Monsignor Kehren Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Monsignor Kehren served St. Mary's Church in downtown Muskegon for many years. When he died, Chapter 668 of the Muskegon Eagles established this in his honor. The award is supported through an annual bowling tournament held by the Eagles. Thanks to their generosity, the spirit of Monsignor Kehren endures as part of the Muskegon community, granting the lasting gift of education to the youth of Muskegon County.

The Ceramic and Glass Industry Foundation offers Kit Grants for teachers and community members to enhance materials science education through outreach projects. Applicants can request various science kits, including Materials Science Classroom Kits, Mini Kits, and Glass Kits, while adhering to specific limitations. The foundation aims to inspire the next generation of ceramic and glass professionals, ensuring all projects align with educational goals and promote student engagement with science.

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Margaret A. Wright Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Margaret Wright, who established the Margaret A. Wright Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Margaret worked as a secretary for the Norge Corporation, the County of Muskegon and Muskegon Construction. She enjoyed sewing, ice skating and exercising at the Y. When she passed, she left a gift through her estate to create a scholarship fund that will support will support Muskegon County graduates that are pursuing a specific trade or skill.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

J. K. Stanford Memorial Award Fund

Rose "Rossie" Miller, a passionate advocate for the community, and her family established this scholarship in memory of their loved one, J. K. Stanford, who was a talented auto mechanic. According to Rose, "my brother J.K. was so good of a mechanic, it seemed like he could simply listen to a car run and tell you what was wrong. He was a compassionate, kind-hearted person, who had a love of cars from an early age." Rose stated, "having received scholarship funds myself, I feel blessed to finally be able to give back to the community." The Stanford family witnessed the realities of not having certification and made a commitment to removing that barrier for others. This scholarship will benefit individuals obtaining certification as an auto or heavy equipment mechanic, an opportunity J.K. never had due to lack of funds. Recipients shall prove to be passionate about and persevere towards their educational goals while maintaining high academic standards.

The Ceramic and Glass Industry Foundation offers Project Grants of up to $2,500 to support innovative projects that enhance materials science education for the next generation of professionals. This grant aims to inspire creativity in training initiatives related to ceramics and glass, fostering community engagement. Eligible projects should focus on outreach and instructional activities, while ineligible requests include funding for research, equipment, or any commercial purposes. Join in advancing education in this vital field!

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Muskegon County Medical Society Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the members of the Muskegon County Medical Society, who established the Muskegon County Medical Society Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. This scholarship provides assistance to individuals pursuing projects or programs relating to health, science education and/or service.

Eastern Carolina Community Foundation

Eastern Carolina Community Foundation, founded in 2006, is the newest community foundation in South Carolina. We have a permanent endowment to meet the changing needs of the Pee Dee.

Eastern Carolina Community Foundation improves the quality of life in our area of South Carolina through inspired philanthropy and innovative community programs. We serve Chesterfield, Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Marion, Marlboro, and Williamsburg Counties.

Scholarships

Eastern Carolina Community Foundation partners with donors to administer 12 scholarship funds for the benefit of students in the Pee Dee. All scholarship opportunities are established through specific funds established at ECCF with criteria determined by the donor. 

The Michelle Yolanda Glenn Carey Scholarship

This fund provides a scholarship to a graduating Pee Dee area high school senior who plans to major in education and teach at the elementary level. The fund was established in memory of Michelle Yolanda Glenn Carey who dedicated twenty years to the teaching of kindergarten students at Theodore Lester Elementary School in Florence, South Carolina.

Peter & Inez Schonveld Scholarship

This scholarship was established through a bequest from the estate of Inez Schonveld to provide scholarship assistance to graduating high school seniors and graduates of the Kalamazoo Public School District.

KZCF scholarships may be applied to any items under your school’s cost of attendance (COA). Each school has a different COA that may include items such as tuition, fees, housing, transportation, food, health insurance, etc. Scholarship payments are sent directly to your institution. 

This scholarship is a one-time award, meaning that it will not repeat in subsequent years. The money awarded can be applied to your education costs alongside other scholarships or funding that you may receive, and there are no necessary steps once funds are sent.

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Reverend Moses J. Jones Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Reverend Moses J. Jones, who established the Reverend Moses J. Jones Endowment Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Born in 1898, Reverend Moses J. Jones was one of Muskegon's most beloved ministers. The Pastor of John Wesley A.M.E. Zion Church of Muskegon for 36 years, he founded the Urban League of Muskegon and received numerous honors including the Ambassador of Goodwill Award. Reverend Jones committed his life to building racial harmony in Muskegon. He helped establish this Scholarship in 1982 to make awards to deserving youths based on their contributions to their community, school, and church. Through this, Reverend Moses J. Jones continues to support the values of community awareness and harmony by granting the lasting gift of education to Muskegon-area youth. Reverend Jones died in 1989. His legacy lives on through this fund.

Daviess County Community Foundation

The Community Foundation is a charitable resource devoted to our local community. We help people make meaningful gifts that improve life in Daviess County, Indiana today and for generations to come.

The Community Foundation can help you...

• Make a difference where it matters
• Invest in the future of the community you love
• Create greater good together

Ronald Frette and Ann Frette 4-H Scholarship

Annual scholarship created by the Daviess County 4-H Club Association in honor of long-time supporters, Ronald and Ann Frette.

Award Amount

• $4,330 (multiple scholarships may be awarded from this amount).

The NIOSH Support for Conferences and Scientific Meetings (R13) program aims to fund high-quality scientific gatherings that enhance occupational safety and health research. It supports meetings that align with NIOSH's mission and priorities, encouraging the exchange of information on relevant topics. Applications should focus on advancing research in these areas, fostering collaboration among professionals. Note that training-only events are not eligible for funding under this program.

The NIOSH Support for Conferences and Scientific Meetings (U13) program aims to fund high-quality scientific gatherings that advance research in occupational safety and health. By promoting collaboration among experts, this program supports workshops and conferences aligned with NIOSH mission priorities. Federal involvement is significant, ensuring guidance and coordination throughout the award process. Applications for training-only events are not eligible, emphasizing the focus on comprehensive scientific discourse.

The Charles and Louis Lincoln Scholarship, awarded by the Erie Community Foundation, provides financial assistance to Erie High School students who are first- or second-generation Americans. This scholarship supports those with demonstrated scholastic ability and financial need, helping them pursue higher education. In 2023, over $800,000 was awarded to more than 500 students, reflecting the foundation's commitment to educational access and support for diverse communities.