Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in South Dakota

Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County. We use distributions from the more than 500 charitable funds — created by generous, local donors — to award more than $2.5 million in grants and scholarships each year to many of the humanitarian, educational and cultural organizations in this remarkable community we call home.

Marion Community Foundation is the area’s leading philanthropic organization, providing charitable donors the opportunity to easily create endowment funds to benefit and support our community through grants and scholarships. We serve communities throughout Marion County through philanthropy, leadership, and civic engagement.

Helen M. Thew Memorial Scholarship

Dorothy Ellen Thew, a lifelong member of the Marion community, left, as part of her legacy, a gift to create three scholarship funds at Marion Community Foundation. Dorothy, a noteworthy person in her own right, designated that three scholarship funds be created from her estate to honor beloved members of her family. The Helen M. Thew Memorial Scholarship honors her sister’s love of music and dedication to education.

Well educated, Dorothy was a 1936 graduate of Marion Harding High School and attended Hunter College, and Indiana, East Carolina, and Toledo universities. She enlisted in the U.S. Navy Waves in 1943 and had a naval career which spanned 30 years. Dorothy worked at the selective service board from 1943-1955 and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Marion Depot until its closing in 1961. She retired from the Columbus Defense Supply Center in 1979.

Her civic involvements mirrored her military career. She was a lifetime member of the American Legion and a Plank-Owner of the Navy Lone Sailor Memorial Association and Fleet Reserve Association, as well as the National Association of Retired Federal Employees, American Association for Retired Persons, the American and Marion County Historical societies, Marion Senior Citizens and Central Christian Church of Marion.

The Veterans' Scholarships, established by the American Australian Association, provide financial support to post-9/11 military veterans from Australia and the USA. Scholarships of up to $40,000 are available for those pursuing full-time undergraduate studies in the respective countries. Since 2017, over $2.8 million has been awarded, fostering educational opportunities that enhance skills and promote successful careers after military service. Eligibility criteria include being an honorably discharged veteran and planning to study full-time.

The Thoracic Surgery Foundation

The Thoracic Surgery Foundation is the premier philanthropic organization in cardiothoracic surgery, with nearly four decades of dedicated investment in the work of cardiothoracic surgeons and professionals. TSF is committed to improving patient care through support for research, education, innovation, and humanitarian outreach, aiming to advance heart and lung health for all.

As the charitable heart of The Society of Thoracic Surgeons, TSF collaborates globally to drive progress in cardiothoracic surgery. Through the efforts of TSF and its worldwide partners, patients with heart and lung disease experience improved longevity and a high quality of life.

STS Perioperative & Critical Care Conference Resident Scholarship

Purpose

This Resident Scholarship allows CT surgery residents to attend the STS Perioperative & Critical Care Conference. The scholarship covers course registration fees, two nights' lodging at the host hotel, and and expense reimbursement of eligible travel expenses.

Course Description

Attendees of the 2026 STS Perioperative & Critical Care Conference will explore the latest techniques and management strategies in cardiovascular and thoracic (CVT) critical care and enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS). This two-day event features dynamic and interactive presentations, hands-on demonstrations, scientific abstracts, and expert panel discussions designed for all members of the CVT perioperative and critical care team. Learn more here.

The Wilmington Country Club Centennial Scholarship, managed by the Delaware Community Foundation, offers a one-time award of $2,000. This scholarship is aimed at current or former employees of SoDel Concepts in Sussex County who are pursuing a degree at an accredited institution. In 2024-2025, the DCF awarded a record $850,000 in scholarships to support students' educational pursuits, promoting equity and opportunity in Delaware.

Robert Jordan Memorial Scholarship

Robert Jordan attended Mifflin High School, joined the military upon graduation, loved to drive, hard worker, fun-loving, well respected, a leader. Married to Donna, father of four, grandfather of six.

Award Amount:

• $1,000

The Lisa and Douglas Goldman Fund, a private foundation established in 1992, is dedicated to enhancing the Jewish community by awarding grants that foster inclusivity and vibrancy. The fund invites proposals from organizations committed to combating antisemitism and supporting progressive initiatives such as climate action and reproductive rights. Eligible applicants must hold 501(c)(3) status and can submit one request per year, focusing on projects in the San Francisco Bay Area or nationally.

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.

Outstanding Youth Club Awards

The Outstanding Youth Club Award is presented to the club that has demonstrated noteworthy achievement in all aspects of club operation.

All Club Award recipients receive:

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

Greenville County Fire Chiefs’ Association Scholarship

In 1995, the Greenville County Fire Chiefs’ Association established a scholarship fund to promote higher education for firefighters and their spouses or children.

Funding

• A minimum of $5,000 will be awarded annually and the number and amount of each award will be determined annually.
• Scholarship funds are paid to an approved educational institution in the name of the student.
• Scholarship funds are awarded for one academic year and are not subject to automatic renewal. 

The Veterans' Scholarships program, established by the American Australian Association, offers financial support to post-9/11 military veterans from Australia and the USA for graduate studies. With over $2.8 million awarded, eligible veterans can receive up to $40,000 for tuition, travel, and living expenses. This initiative fosters educational opportunities and career development, encouraging veterans to pursue their academic goals in each other's countries.

Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County. We use distributions from the more than 500 charitable funds — created by generous, local donors — to award more than $2.5 million in grants and scholarships each year to many of the humanitarian, educational and cultural organizations in this remarkable community we call home.

Marion Community Foundation is the area’s leading philanthropic organization, providing charitable donors the opportunity to easily create endowment funds to benefit and support our community through grants and scholarships. We serve communities throughout Marion County through philanthropy, leadership, and civic engagement.

Marion Rotary Club Scholarship

For more than 110 years, Rotary members have been addressing challenges around the world. Rotary links 1.2 million members to form an organization of international scope. It started in 1905 with the vision of one man, Paul Harris, in Chicago. He formed Rotary so professionals with diverse backgrounds could exchange ideas, form meaningful, lifelong friendships, and give back to their communities. Rotary is truly international. Only 16 years after being founded, Rotary had clubs on six continents. Today, members in nearly every country are committed to service.

Locally, the Marion Rotary Club was chartered in 1922, as club number 1051, with 23 charter members led by Fred Guthery, the first president. The Marion Rotary Club, along with the Marion Rotary Foundation, which was incorporated in 1959, has contributed to many organizations and scholarships over the years. 

The Marion Rotary Club’s Scholarship Fund migrated to Marion Community Foundation in 2017. It provides scholarship support for Marion County high school seniors.

Our Story

Established over 50 years ago, our founders redefined local philanthropy, fostering connections around a shared sense of place and purpose. As Virginia's largest community foundation, we bring people together to pool resources, co-create solutions and align actions for impactful change in the Richmond region.

Scholarships are offered to students living in the Richmond region and other Virginia locations. Each scholarship was established by a generous individual, family, or organization with a desire to assist high school students, recent high school graduates, and adult learners to continue their education. 

Mary Davidson Bryan Scholarship

The Mary Davidson Bryan Scholarship was established by the family of Mary Davidson Bryan to benefit academically qualified graduates of high schools in Bedford and Rockbridge Counties.

Awards

• (2) $2,000

Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County. We use distributions from the more than 500 charitable funds — created by generous, local donors — to award more than $2.5 million in grants and scholarships each year to many of the humanitarian, educational and cultural organizations in this remarkable community we call home.

Marion Community Foundation is the area’s leading philanthropic organization, providing charitable donors the opportunity to easily create endowment funds to benefit and support our community through grants and scholarships. We serve communities throughout Marion County through philanthropy, leadership, and civic engagement.

Marion Rotary Club’s Catherine Ferguson Scholarship

For more than 110 years, Rotary members have been addressing challenges around the world. Rotary links 1.2 million members to form an organization of international scope. It started in 1905 with the vision of one man, Paul Harris, in Chicago. He formed Rotary so professionals with diverse backgrounds could exchange ideas, form meaningful, lifelong friendships, and give back to their communities. Rotary is truly international. Only 16 years after being founded, Rotary had clubs on six continents. Today, members in nearly every country are committed to service.

Locally, the Marion Rotary Club was chartered in 1922, as club number 1051, with 23 charter members led by Fred Guthery, the first president. The Marion Rotary Club, along with the Marion Rotary Foundation, which was incorporated in 1959, has contributed to many organizations and scholarships over the years. 

The Marion Rotary Club Catherine Ferguson Scholarship migrated to Marion Community Foundation in 2017. It honors the late Catherine Ferguson, the first woman inducted into the Marion Rotary Club and its long-standing club secretary. It provides financial support for Marion County graduating seniors. Recipients will have been a resident of Marion County for at least two full years and maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 or higher.

Twylla and Lloyd Fisher Scholarship

The scholarship was founded by Lloyd Edison Fisher, Jr. and his wife of 47 years, Twylla Peterson Fisher. Lloyd was born on October 23, 1923 in Medina, OH, and was awarded a Stadium Cooperative Scholarship at The Ohio State University (OSU), but his college years were interrupted by World War II. He served in the United States Army, attaining the rank of staff sergeant and engaged in combat in Europe, followed by occupation duty in Japan.

He returned to OSU to complete his undergraduate degree and graduated summa cum laude from The Ohio State University College of Law, where he was editor-in-chief of its law review publication. Lloyd began his legal career with Ohio’s Department of Taxation, before electing to become a trust officer with the Huntington National Bank. He subsequently joined the Columbus law firm then known as Alexander, Wenger, & Holschuh; which later merged with Porter Wright Morris & Arthur. After practicing law for nearly 63 years, Lloyd retired from the firm. Lloyd was an active member of Maple Grove United Methodist Church and was instrumental in establishing a robust pension program for retired clergy.

Award Amount:

• Minimum $500

Twylla and Lloyd Fisher Scholarship for Small, Private Colleges

The scholarship was founded by Lloyd Edison Fisher, Jr. and his wife of 47 years, Twylla Peterson Fisher. Lloyd was born on October 23, 1923 in Medina, OH, and was awarded a Stadium Cooperative Scholarship at The Ohio State University (OSU), but his college years were interrupted by World War II. He served in the United States Army, attaining the rank of staff sergeant and engaged in combat in Europe, followed by occupation duty in Japan.

He returned to OSU to complete his undergraduate degree and graduated summa cum laude from The Ohio State University College of Law, where he was editor-in-chief of its law review publication. Lloyd began his legal career with Ohio’s Department of Taxation, before electing to become a trust officer with the Huntington National Bank. He subsequently joined the Columbus law firm then known as Alexander, Wenger, & Holschuh; which later merged with Porter Wright Morris & Arthur. After practicing law for nearly 63 years, Lloyd retired from the firm. Lloyd was an active member of Maple Grove United Methodist Church and was instrumental in establishing a robust pension program for retired clergy.

Award Amount:

• $2,400

Tampa Jazz Club

The Tampa Jazz Club was incorporated as a non- profit organization in 1995, with the objective of “generating interest in preserving, understanding and performing jazz.”

Tampa Jazz Club Scholarship

The Tampa Jazz Club is committed to encouraging talented young jazz students and to presenting great live jazz in Tampa.

Since 2003, we have awarded Tampa Jazz Club scholarships to graduating area high school seniors who went on to study jazz performance or education. To date, we have awarded $24,750 to 22 graduates.

The Open Door Scholarship

This fund was created by a donor family who believes that education is the cornerstone to a life of opportunity, security, choice, and continued growth. The aim of the Open Door Scholarship is to do just that – help open the door to driven, hardworking students who share the donor family’s belief in the power of education and who seek to use that education to thrive.

Award Amount:

$10,000 payable over four years at $2,500 per year

The FY 2027 State and Regional Primary Care Association (PCA) Cooperative Agreements aim to enhance the technical assistance provided to Health Center Program award recipients and look-alikes. This initiative focuses on improving access to preventive and primary health care, managing chronic diseases, and ensuring a capable health center workforce. By implementing value-based care strategies and leveraging data for operational improvements, the program seeks to support the health of vulnerable communities effectively.

The Ethel Zwiebel Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of the North State, supports Shasta County students majoring in music who demonstrate financial need. This award is open to graduating high school seniors and Shasta College students completing their two-year music program. By fostering educational goals, this scholarship aims to empower young musicians to pursue their passion for music in higher education.

The Kids to Parks Day School Grants Program offers funding up to $1,000 for Title I schools in the U.S. to enhance student engagement with parks and public lands. This initiative encourages hands-on learning experiences through outdoor activities and stewardship projects, promoting environmental education and healthy lifestyles. Eligible classrooms can apply, emphasizing student involvement in the application process. The program aims to empower students and teachers to foster a deeper connection with nature and their communities.

The ASH Quality Improvement Training Institute (QITI) is a 16-month hybrid training program designed for North American hematology care teams. It aims to empower clinicians as leaders in quality improvement, enhancing patient outcomes and experiences. Participants engage in in-person and virtual workshops, collaborating with faculty to develop clinical quality improvement projects. Key curriculum highlights include multi-disciplinary team strategies, quality improvement assessment tools, and skills for presenting QI work effectively.

The Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (NRSA) Short-Term Institutional Research Training Grant (T35) provides funding to domestic institutions for developing research training opportunities for predoctoral students in biomedical, behavioral, and clinical research. This grant supports short-term research training for health professional students and aims to enhance their exposure to health-related sciences, fostering interest in research careers.

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Vera DoLean Ginn Kiwanis Scholarship

Shelby County resident pursuing a career in elementary education. 

Selection based upon:

• Intent to pursue the field of elementary education, financial need, academic ability, community and school service, recommendations.

Awards

• Two $1,000 scholarships

Sam A. Mills Memorial Scholarship

Applicant must be a graduate of a Henderson County public high school who is pursuing an undergraduate degree in an accredited school on a full-time basis. The applicant must demonstrate financial need and show scholastic achievement and good citizenship.

Amount

• $1000

About Community Foundation of Henderson County

• Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.
• Vision: Community Foundation of Henderson County is a highly visible, philanthropic leader directed by an engaged and committed board, staffed by qualified employees, empowering donors at all levels to invest in professionally managed charitable funds that address community needs.

Haddy Harrington Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is to provide financial assistance for students who have demonstrated a passionate desire for advanced education in art or writing. Applicant must be a graduate of a Henderson County high school with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

This is a renewable scholarship.

Foundation

The Bureau County Farm Bureau Foundation was established in 1991 by members of the Bureau County Farm Bureau. The mission of the Farm Bureau Foundation is “To carry out charitable, scientific, literary and educational work that benefits Bureau County farm families and agriculture.”

The Foundation supports agricultural programs aimed at:

• Scholarship
• Education
• Leadership
• Research

Bureau County College Student Agricultural Scholarship

To provide for persons studying agriculture and agriculture-related fields including but not limited to education, vet medicine, and leadership development.

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Betty Lee Riggs Hughes Nursing Scholarship

A Shelby County resident pursuing a Registered Nursing degree. 

Selection based upon (in order of priority):

• Demonstrate the empathy, compassion, and requisite patience in order to enjoy and devote oneself to a long and fruitful nursing career, financial need, academic ability, recommendations, demonstrated community and school service.

Awards

• One $1,000 scholarship

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Tom and Sandy Shoemaker Skills Scholarship

Adults or graduating seniors who reside in Shelby County, Ohio or in the School Districts of Shelby County, Ohio, who are enrolling in an accredited adult educational program or trade school or pursuing an Associate’s Degree shall be eligible to apply.

Selection based upon:

• Demonstrated interest and passion for a specific career path, demonstrated work experience, demonstrated community or school service and recommendations.

Awards

• One $1,000 scholarship