Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in South Dakota

The Meinders Retail Florist Education Grant Fund, established in September 2021 by Herman and LaDonna Meinders, aims to support the floral industry by providing grants for reduced or free registration fees to industry events. With an initial contribution exceeding $500,000, the fund promotes educational initiatives that attract young talent and address industry challenges. Managed by the AFE Education Committee, it is expected to distribute over $10,000 in its first year, ensuring sustainable support for vital educational programs.

The NEA Big Read Grant, managed by Arts Midwest, aims to foster community engagement through shared reading experiences. This initiative funds nonprofit organizations to host diverse reading programs, encouraging cross-cultural understanding and creativity. With grants ranging from $5,000 to $20,000, organizations can conduct book discussions, workshops, and creative events to strengthen community ties and promote civic engagement. The program highlights local voices and invites participation from various audiences, creating a vibrant literary culture.

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

Kenneth Erickson Auto Mechanic Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Marguerite Winter and Marilyn Lynn, who established the Kenneth Erickson Auto Mechanic Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Kenneth Erickson was born at the end of the pre-car era. His father, a rural mail carrier, delivered mail by horse and buggy. When cars came along young Kenneth was fascinated by them and scavenged parts to build a yellow roadster, which he drove for several years. After a short stint at Continental Motors he decided to follow his passion and got a job as an auto mechanic. Eventually he opened his own business, Erickson's Garage, on Center Street in North Muskegon where he sold gas and repaired cars and trucks for over 40 years. In establishing the Kenneth I. Erickson Automobile Mechanic Scholarship, Ken's daughters, Marilyn Lynn and Marguerite Winter hope to support young people who would like to turn their passion for cars and motors into a life's work.

The Communities Outreach Programme by the Islamic Development Bank aims to enhance the socio-economic development of Muslim minority communities in non-member countries. Established in 1981, it focuses on education, health, and capacity building to empower these communities. The programme supports initiatives that foster entrepreneurship, women's empowerment, and youth development, ensuring inclusive growth. By addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, it strives to improve living conditions and promote productivity, ultimately contributing to sustainable development in diverse regions.

The Samaritan Hospital Medical Staff/Ashland County Physicians Medical School Scholarship, established in 1996, offers two $1,500 scholarships to Ashland County residents pursuing MD or DO degrees at accredited medical schools in Ohio. This initiative reflects gratitude for past medical education and aims to encourage recipients to return to their community for practice. Eligible applicants can reapply for a maximum of four years, fostering a commitment to local healthcare.

The Veterans Cemetery Grants program, administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, provides financial assistance to establish, expand, and improve Veterans cemeteries across the United States. With over $910 million awarded, this initiative ensures that state and tribal governments can maintain these sacred sites, supporting the interment of Veterans and their eligible family members. Grants cover up to 100% of project costs, reinforcing the commitment to honor those who served.

Wayne Hawkins Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship benefits students who are children of employed or independent, exclusive sales representatives or insurance agents of Alfa Mutual Insurance Company or its insurance affiliates or subsidiaries. Awarding is based on academic achievement.

Application Requirements:

• High School Transcript

Community Foundation for Muskegon County

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

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Scholarships

Our scholarship funds seek to empower and encourage Muskegon County residents to pursue their dreams, hone in their gifts, and give back to our community.

If you’re a high school or homeschooled senior, current college student, early college senior, or adult learner, the Community Foundation for Muskegon County may have a scholarship for you. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with over $1 million committed to students in over 500 new and renewed scholarships awarded each year.

Foundation for MCC - Richard Kraft/Suzanne Kraft Mateer Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Richard H. Kraft, who established the Richard Kraft/Suzanne Kraft Mateer Scholarship of the Foundation for Muskegon Community College. Richard graduated from Muskegon Community College in 1949 and then continued his education at Michigan State University obtaining an engineering degree. He started and operated a successful consulting and engineering firm in Flint. He believes that starting at Muskegon Community College was the best thing he ever did before continuing his education. This scholarship is presented to graduating seniors of Muskegon, Ottawa, Oceana and Newaygo County high schools who will be attending Muskegon Community College, then pursuing a degree at any accredited college or university.

Community Foundation for Muskegon County

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

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Scholarships

Our scholarship funds seek to empower and encourage Muskegon County residents to pursue their dreams, hone in their gifts, and give back to our community.

If you’re a high school or homeschooled senior, current college student, early college senior, or adult learner, the Community Foundation for Muskegon County may have a scholarship for you. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with over $1 million committed to students in over 500 new and renewed scholarships awarded each year.

Foundation for MCC - Edward H. & Wilma Kyvig Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the Kyvig family, who established the Edward H. & Wilma Kyvig Scholarship of the Foundation for Muskegon Community College. The Kyvig family established this scholarship to honor their parents, Edward and Wilma who both were instructors at Muskegon Community College. Edward and Wilma were very passionate about education and the importance of students obtaining a college degree. This scholarship was established to assist a student of good academic standing who shows potential and who is deserving of financial assistance.

Wyndall Ivey Scholarship

The scholarship has been established in memory of Attorney Wyndall Ivey, a 1992 graduate of Sidney Lanier High School (Lanier Academic Motivational Program), the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and Washington and Lee University School of Law. Eligible applicants must have a minimum 3.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale and plan to attend an accredited two-year or four-year college or university. Two $500 scholarships will be awarded.

Application Requirements:

• High School Transcript, Essay and References

Community Foundation for Muskegon County

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

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Scholarships

Our scholarship funds seek to empower and encourage Muskegon County residents to pursue their dreams, hone in their gifts, and give back to our community.

If you’re a high school or homeschooled senior, current college student, early college senior, or adult learner, the Community Foundation for Muskegon County may have a scholarship for you. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with over $1 million committed to students in over 500 new and renewed scholarships awarded each year.

Eleanor Polley Women's Golf Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Dennis Sruba and Joanne Polley, who established the Eleanor Polley Women's Golf Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County in memory of Eleanor Polley. Eleanor Polley was Executive Director of the White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce when she died suddenly in 1995 at the age of 49. She was an untiring booster of the White Lake area and Muskegon County as a whole. She was also an avid promoter of women's golf. The Eleanor Polley Women's Golf Scholarship Fund was established in Eleanor's memory as part of the White Lake Community Fund by her family, her many friends, and the White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. It will provide scholarships to women college students who are also avid golfers.

The Don Rossi Scholarship, established by the National Golf Course Owners’ Association in 1993, supports college juniors and seniors majoring in Sports Administration or related fields. This scholarship aims to foster careers in golf-related industries, encouraging students nationwide to pursue their aspirations. Funded by the Coastal Community Foundation, it reflects a commitment to education and community growth, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder talented individuals from achieving their goals.

The OREF Michael P. Kelly Sr Leadership Fellowship Program is a one-year virtual fellowship aimed at developing leadership skills in orthopedic residents. The program includes individual coaching, clinical research mentoring, educational opportunities, and an annual leadership retreat. It prioritizes candidates like orthopedic residents (PGY3-PGY5), fellows, and early-career surgeons who show a commitment to orthopedic clinical research and leadership in the orthopedic community.

Community Foundation for Muskegon County

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

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Scholarships

Our scholarship funds seek to empower and encourage Muskegon County residents to pursue their dreams, hone in their gifts, and give back to our community.

If you’re a high school or homeschooled senior, current college student, early college senior, or adult learner, the Community Foundation for Muskegon County may have a scholarship for you. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with over $1 million committed to students in over 500 new and renewed scholarships awarded each year.

JJohn E. and Bernice L. Sydnor Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Bernice Sydnor, who established the John E. and Bernice L. Sydnor Memorial Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. John E. Sydnor made community and education his lifetime passions. He served a long list of civic organizations, including the Community Foundation as a Trustee and supporter. His 38-year career as an educator has left a permanent mark of excellence on his community. The Foundation was one organization to which John chose to leave a contribution. The John E. Sydnor Memorial will present scholarships to African-American students graduating from Muskegon County high schools and attending an accredited college, university or technical/trade school. The youth and educators of John Sydnor's community will feel his strength forever, as this gift to Muskegon keeps John Sydnor's passion for education alive.

The SAA First Book Award, presented by the Shakespeare Association of America (SAA), honors the legacy of Jerome Singerman and supports early career scholars. This prestigious award recognizes the best monograph with a significant Shakespeare component, published as the first book by a current SAA member between September 1, 2024, and September 1, 2025. The award will be announced during the SAA’s Annual Luncheon, celebrating contributions to Shakespeare studies.

The J. Leeds Barroll Dissertation Prize, awarded by the Shakespeare Association of America, honors exemplary doctoral work with a significant focus on Shakespeare. This prestigious award is conferred annually during the SAA’s Annual Luncheon. To be eligible, applicants must be SAA members in good standing, and dissertations must be approved between September 1, 2024, and September 1, 2025. This prize encourages innovative research and scholarship in Shakespeare studies.

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

Swenson Family Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Leland L. Swenson, who established the Swenson Family Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Dr. Leland Swenson practiced orthopedic surgery in Muskegon from 1949-1978 and worked at Hackley Occupational Health Clinic, completing orthopedic disability evaluations from 1985-2005. The Swenson family wished to continue with their charitable actions, and believe the Community Foundation would carry out their wishes. The Swenson Family Scholarship is designed to provide scholarships to students throughout Muskegon County.

The Faculty Travel Grant for AGU Annual Meeting supports early-to-mid career faculty from under-resourced institutions, including community colleges and minority-serving institutions. This program aims to facilitate attendance at the AGU Annual Meeting, which attracts over 22,000 geoscience professionals globally. Awardees receive a $1,700 travel stipend, access to professional development workshops, and networking opportunities, enabling them to enhance their research and teaching capabilities through collaboration and innovation.

About AWS

We Move Welding Forward

Founded in 1919, the American Welding Society is a nonprofit organization with a global mission: to advance the science, technology, and application of welding and allied joining and cutting processes worldwide, including brazing, soldering, and thermal spraying.

By fostering knowledge, embracing change, and providing real-world opportunities through scholarships, fellowships, and workforce development, AWS provides the tools to help members succeed—and to inspire future generations of welding professionals.

Welder Training Scholarship

The AWS Welder Training Scholarship is for students seeking welder training in a certificate program less than two years in length through a trade school, community college, or other facility providing welder training.

Up to 800 - $1,000 Welder Training Scholarships will be awarded annually.

Coast Guard Foundation

Founded in 1969, we’re a vital partner to the U.S. Coast Guard—tackling the toughest challenges confronting our heroes.

We’re there for members from enlistment to long after retirement, and our work strengthens the entire community. Through close collaboration with Coast Guard leadership, we’re able to respond to new and emerging needs effectively. Our investments support families, bolster unit morale, honor the Coast Guard’s mission at the national level, and more. Every day, Coast Guard members risk their lives to protect our country. When we stand together and show them our appreciation, we can ensure they remain always ready—no matter what.

Coast Guard Foundation Captain Ernest W. Fox Perpetual Scholarship

Brief Description

This application is intended for qualified active duty Coast Guard, civil service employee personnel or their dependents (child or spouse) at the CG Aviation Logistic Center (ALC)

The scholarship will be used for preparatory, collegiate, postgraduate, professional and vocational education, formal or informal training which develops the talents and potential of the beneficiary.

The Fox family established this annual Perpetual Scholarship to honor the memory of their late son/brother Captain Ernest W. Fox, and as a means of expressing their appreciation to the men and women who work at the CG Aviation Logistic Center (previously Aircraft Repair & Supply Center).

The James P. Jackson Scholarship, provided by the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, aims to support graduating seniors from Muskegon County High Schools pursuing an Accounting degree. Established by the Jackson family in memory of James P. Jackson, this scholarship reflects a commitment to empowering students to achieve their educational goals. The Community Foundation manages an extensive scholarship program, offering over $1 million annually to help students realize their dreams and contribute to the community.

Community Foundation for Muskegon County

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

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Scholarships

Our scholarship funds seek to empower and encourage Muskegon County residents to pursue their dreams, hone in their gifts, and give back to our community.

If you’re a high school or homeschooled senior, current college student, early college senior, or adult learner, the Community Foundation for Muskegon County may have a scholarship for you. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with over $1 million committed to students in over 500 new and renewed scholarships awarded each year.

Jackson-Merkey Contractors Educational Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Steve Jackson and Gary Merkey, who established the Jackson-Merkey Contractors Educational Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Steve Jackson and Gary Merkey have been friends since high school and business partners for many years now. They were really excited to start this find and wish they had thought of it long ago. This scholarship will benefit Muskegon County high school graduates working toward any degree but with a preference given to students pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering or Constuction Management.

Community Foundation for Muskegon County

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

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Scholarships

Our scholarship funds seek to empower and encourage Muskegon County residents to pursue their dreams, hone in their gifts, and give back to our community.

If you’re a high school or homeschooled senior, current college student, early college senior, or adult learner, the Community Foundation for Muskegon County may have a scholarship for you. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with over $1 million committed to students in over 500 new and renewed scholarships awarded each year.

Hispanic Community Services Coaltion Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the Hispanic Community Services Coalition, who established the Hispanic Community Services Coalition Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. The Mission of the Hispanic Services Coalition of Muskegon County is to serve the Hispanic community through education, health information and services as an instrument in improving their quality of life. HCSC promotes the Hispanic culture within Muskegon County and acts as a cultural reference. This scholarship is for a Hispanic or Latino graduating seniors who are residents of and/or attend high school in Muskegon County.

Spinoso Masters Scholarship

Created through the generosity of John and Vivian Spinoso, this Pass Through Fund provides scholarship support for up to $10,000 to deserving students to cover tuition costs of post-undergraduate studies. Eligible applicants must have graduated from a DeKalb County high school but do not need to currently live in DeKalb County, IL.

The Transformational Partnerships Fund offers catalytic grants of up to $100,000 to support partnerships among degree-granting institutions, focusing on student-centered solutions. These grants aim to explore innovative collaborations that enhance stability and success for students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. Eligible institutions must demonstrate a commitment to transformational partnerships, with priority given to those serving diverse populations and improving educational outcomes. Interested applicants can find more information on the grant process and criteria.

The IATSE Local 798 Fund offers emergency financial assistance to performing arts and entertainment professionals facing unexpected critical needs. This support helps cover essential living expenses, including housing, utilities, and healthcare, to prevent eviction or service shut-offs. Eligible applicants must be union members for at least two years and have experienced unforeseen financial hardship due to circumstances beyond their control, such as injury or natural disasters.

Scholarship amounts vary depending on the scholarship applied for. Applicants are encouraged to apply for as many awards as they are eligible to increase the likelihood of receiving one or more awards.

Scholarships can be used for cost of attendance, direct education expenses, including tuition, books, and/or other school-related fees.

If you receive an award, be sure to complete your scholarship acceptance form (online portal). Scholarship awards are paid directly to the academic institution by the end of August.

Renaissance Education Scholarship Fund

This Fund was created in 2007 by retired Sycamore teacher Yvonne Johnson and provides scholarship support to an individual who has been in the work force and desires to return to the academic world in pursuit of a college degree. The award is renewable up to three consecutive years following the initial award and can be used for tuition at any accredited university or community college for expenses associated with undergraduate study. The recipient can seek a degree in any field of study, but must demonstrate evidence of interest in the chosen field. This scholarship is administered by the Community Foundation.