Best South Dakota Grants for Nonprofits

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant opportunity for schools to implement the PLTW Engineering program for the 2025-2026 academic year and beyond. Eligible institutions include public, private, and charter schools located in the US. Grant recipients will receive funding to cover participation fees and training costs. Total funding amounts to $16,000, distributed over three years. Schools are encouraged to create pathways for students in engineering through this initiative.

4-H Club Foundation of Tripp County

This application qualifies members of the 4-H Club Foundation of Tripp County Scholarship and the Harold & Twila Zink Scholarship. The number and amount of the scholarship are based on applicants and merit.

To provide financial support to current and past students of the Tripp County area pursuing post-secondary education at a South Dakota institute with preference given to participants in Tripp County 4-H.

The Windgate Charitable Trust Grant supports contemporary craft and visual arts in the U.S. It offers funding for fellowships, residencies, educational outreach, and materials for craft programs. The foundation prioritizes strengthening visual arts in colleges and expanding K-12 art-integrated programs, providing opportunities for artists and educators to enhance their skills and foster creativity among students. Organizations with previous funding from Windgate can apply through the grantee portal.

Curtis Marvin Hohn Endowment

To provide financial support to South Dakota students attending an in-state institution of higher learning and that demonstrate a commitment to public service.

Applicants for the Curtis Marvin Hohn Legacy Scholarship will reflect the values that embodied Curt Hohn's life. These characteristics may include, but are not limited to:

• Personal integrity, individual character, and courage
• Leadership in school and community
• Demonstrated involvement in civic affairs
• Participation in organizations that shape the school and community
• Individual leadership to reform policies that benefit the public good of the school and community
• Demonstrated work ethic in the school and community
• Demonstrated interest in national and global issues that impact the public interest
• Demonstrated interest in humanitarian issues

This scholarship was established to celebrate the life and accomplishments of Curtis M. Hohn, a prominent figure in South Dakota's water policy landscape, renowned for his service as a public servant, community activist, and leader. Curtis held several key positions, including serving on the staff of U.S. Senator George McGovern, directing the United Family Farmers organization, and managing the Oahe Conservancy Subdistrict. He played a crucial role in assessing the Oahe Irrigation Project and negotiating legislative settlements for alternative water projects. Moreover, Curtis led negotiations between the local Oahe Subdistrict with Congress and the U.S. Department of the Interior. Notably, he played a pivotal role in the implementation of South Dakota's first major pipeline project utilizing Missouri River water.

Curt was an avid reader of history. His lifetime commitment of political courage and public service are reflected in the words of Robert F. Kennedy, a man Curt deeply admired and often quoted - "Few will have the greatness to bend history itself; but each of us can work to change a small portion of events, and in the total of all those acts will be written the history of this generation."

David Kranz - Argus Leader Media Journalism Scholarship

Scholarship award up to $5,000.

To provide financial support to journalism students.

Darren R. Mallow Scholarship

To provide financial support to South Dakota National Guard members and their children to attend college, university, or technical school. Established by Robert & Shirley Mallow in memory of their son.

Col (Ret) Bob and Shirley Mallow established the Darren R. Mallow Scholarship in remembrance of their son who was an outstanding guard member whose life was tragically cut short by a fatal civilian helicopter accident in the summer of 1999.

Dr. James C. Schmulbach Memorial Scholarship

To provide financial support for a scholarship as recommended by the Dakota Chapter of the American Fisheries Society.

South Dakota Community Foundation

As a statewide community foundation, we work with donors, nonprofits and community leaders to strengthen philanthropy in South Dakota every day.

Scholarships

At South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF), we proudly manage more than 350 scholarship funds in partnership with generous donors who are committed to supporting students. These scholarships offer countless opportunities to help ease the financial burden of continuing their education.

Mansour Karim Scholarship

To provide financial support for nursing students attending Capital University Center in Pierre, SD.

Casey’s Donation Requests support vital community needs in Education, Hunger, and Community Servants. Eligible 501(c)3 organizations within Casey’s communities can apply through the online Donation Request Form. Requests are reviewed continuously, with feedback provided via email within one month. Priority is given to organizations that haven't received donations in the current giving calendar year, which runs from May 1 to April 30.

Gene Abdallah Scholarship

To provide financial support to students interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement.

Esther Edie Environmental Scholarship

In 1972, Esther Edie brought together several small environmental protection groups from around the state to form the South Dakota Resources Coalition (SDRC). SDRC’s mission was to preserve and enhance our environment, protect our natural resources, and encourage citizens and businesses to adopt sound environmental practices. In its 40-year existence, SDRC fulfilled its mission through education, legislative advocacy, and litigation. Esther Edie was an effective leader in SDRC’s many projects until she died in 2006.

To provide financial support to students attending a college or university in South Dakota, who is pursuing a career in one of the following areas: Environmental Science, Environmental Geography, Environmental Sociology, Natural Resource Management, or Environmental Law.

The Mary Chilton DAR Foundation offers Regular Grants ranging from $1,000 to $15,000 to support projects aligned with their mission of promoting historic preservation, education, and patriotism within South Dakota. Eligible projects include the preservation of historical memorabilia, support for local museums, and educational opportunities. Notably, the foundation does not fund student scholarships or capital campaigns, ensuring a focus on community engagement and historical significance.

The Express Health Information Outreach Awards aim to enhance public health by increasing access to biomedical information for U.S. health professionals and the general public. These awards support projects that improve health information literacy among consumers and caregivers, ensuring they can effectively find and utilize health information. Focused on partnerships and outreach to underrepresented communities, the initiative seeks to promote healthy behaviors, prevent illness, and improve health outcomes through informed decision-making.

The MCDARF Mini-Grants provide funding of less than $1,000 for small projects that promote historical interest, education, and genealogy. Ideal applicants should focus on enhancing local museums, supporting historical events, and fostering patriotism through various programs. The grants encourage community involvement and require matching contributions from other sources. However, applications for student scholarships and funding for capital campaigns are not accepted. These grants aim to make a meaningful impact on American heritage.

Career and Technical Education

The goal of the South Dakota Department of Education is for all students to graduate college, career, and life ready. The Division of College, Career and Student Success provides support for students' preparations for postsecondary education and the workforce. Services are connected to approved Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs, work-based learning, student organizations and more. In-line with the department's aspiration, DCCSS works to ensure students not only graduate from high school, but that they are prepared to navigate the transitions and life events that come after high school.

Workforce Education Grants

In 2013, the South Dakota Legislature established the Workforce Education Fund through SB 235. Part of that fund was designated to provide grants for Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs in secondary schools.

The Workforce Education Grants provide school districts and private, nonprofit entities who provide specialized training in South Dakota the opportunity to make transformative change in career and technical education programs. High quality CTE programs give students the knowledge, skills and experiences to be well prepared for postsecondary education and the workforce. Partnerships among secondary education, postsecondary education, and business & industry lay the foundation for modern CTE programs.

Grant Purpose & Eligibility

The Workforce Education Grants are designed to support and align secondary school CTE systems with South Dakota's postsecondary education programs and workforce needs, developing the state's talent pipeline for workforce development and economic growth. Projects are meant to serve middle and high school students.

Eligible applicants are Local Education Agencies (LEAs) with projects designed to serve middle and high school students. The LEAs who are awarded grants will serve as fiscal agents through the completion of their projects. All applications must demonstrate commitment by all grant partners to the grant project and its sustainability following the conclusion of the grant.

The Tobacco Prevention & Cessation RFA aims to support community-driven initiatives that promote tobacco-free lifestyles in South Dakota. With a focus on collaboration among local organizations, this funding opportunity seeks to implement strategies outlined in the SD-TCP State Plan, which emphasizes long-term changes to reduce tobacco-related health issues. By fostering partnerships and investing in impactful projects, the RFA is dedicated to decreasing the prevalence of tobacco use and its associated harms in the state.

501(c)(3) nonprofits in South Dakota that breed, raise, and train assistance dogs or guide dogs can apply for Patterson Dental Foundation’s Assistance Dog Program Grants, with awards up to US $35,000 for capital projects, personnel, puppy raising, or program support. Eligible organizations must be ADI or IGDF members or candidates serving Patterson Companies service areas in the U.S. and Canada.

The South Dakota Fund Grants provide financial support to non-profit organizations across South Dakota, focusing on culture, economic development, education, and health services. Grants typically range from $2,000 to $20,000, with exceptions possible. Applicants must be public, non-profit organizations or partner with a verified fiscal sponsor. The fund encourages community involvement and matching funds to enhance project sustainability and success.

The South Dakota Freedom Scholarship aims to alleviate the financial burden of higher education by providing need-based scholarships to students from diverse economic backgrounds. To qualify, applicants must be South Dakota residents, complete their FAFSA, and commit to living and working in the state post-graduation. This initiative not only supports students in achieving their bachelor's degrees but also contributes to building a skilled workforce in South Dakota.

Rob-See-Co is an independent seed company with regional expertise, providing customers access to leading genetics and traits through the Rob-See-Co and Innotech® seed brands. Rob-See-Co also sells Masters Choice specialty silage and forage products, as well as Streamline Ag seed-driven crop inputs. Rob-See-Co works alongside its customers, building strong relationships and helping them plant the right seed for their long-term success, while keeping the process friendly, straightforward, and simple. 

Rob-See-Co Library Grant

In recognition of National Library Day, Rob-See-Co, an independent seed company located in Elkhorn, Neb. is proud to announce the continuation of its Rural Library Grant program.

Originally launched in 2023 to commemorate the company’s 10th anniversary and honor Agnes Robinson’s dedication to the rural library in Waterloo, NE, the program continues to hold special meaning. Agnes, great-grandmother of Jim Robinson, CEO of Rob-See-Co, was a passionate advocate for rural libraries. Today, the program extends support to libraries across rural communities within the company’s footprint. 

The focus areas for grant distributions from the Rob-See-Co Rural Library Grant program will assist local libraries with expanding book collections, core educational programs for adults or children, and computer or software upgrades. Examples of this would be new books, expansion of school visits or field trips, digitizing research materials, support for funding traveling exhibits and speakers.

Rob-See-Co will award ten grants to selected rural libraries across CO, IA, KS, MD, MI, MN, ND, NE, OH, OK, PA, SD, TX and WI. Funds may be used for core educational, preservation and interpretive purposes, including collection development, facility improvements, traveling exhibits, guest speakers, staff training, programming, and publications. 

Focused on rural economic development, USDA Rural Development invites South Dakota public entities, nonprofits, tribes, and educational institutions to apply for Rural Business Development Grants. Eligible projects support small rural businesses through training, technical assistance, facilities, infrastructure, revolving loan funds, and community or technology-based economic development, with awards ranging from US $10,000 - US $500,000.

The CHS Foundation supports initiatives that benefit the agriculture industry, focusing on 501c3 organizations within specific states. Their funding is aimed at empowering cooperative growth and sustainable practices. Local projects may also be eligible through the CHS Seeds for Stewardship program. However, funding is not available for individuals, sports teams, or religious groups, ensuring that the support remains directed towards community and cooperative development.

The René M. Vandervelde Research Grant, offered by the Association of Applied Paleontological Sciences, provides $1000 annually to support students and researchers in marine paleontology, geology, or stratigraphy of the Late Cretaceous Pierre and Bearpaw Shales in North America. Established in 2007 with the support of Korite® International, the grant aims to promote scientific research and publications about the unique fauna and flora found in these geological deposits.

Focused on real estate and housing, USDA Rural Development invites South Dakota government and private nonprofit organizations and federally recognized Tribes to seek funding for mutual self-help housing technical assistance. Grants support supervising very-low- and low-income rural families as they build their own homes, plus recruiting participants and helping with loan applications.

The CHS Foundation offers funding for innovative projects in precision agriculture and data analytics. This annual grant program supports colleges and universities focusing on enhancing agronomy and ag mechanics curriculum. Applications are accepted from April 15 to May 31, with priority given to initiatives that foster hands-on learning and technology development. Eligible projects should emphasize data analysis and improve students' understanding of agricultural technology, while adhering to funding guidelines.

The NIOSH Miner Safety and Health Training Program aims to enhance health and safety training for miners in the Western United States. With mining fatalities significantly higher than the national average, this initiative seeks to address critical training needs by developing effective programs, increasing qualified instructors, and ensuring compliance with existing safety guidelines. By focusing on culturally appropriate training methods and collaborative efforts with other agencies, the program aims to reduce injuries and fatalities in the mining sector.

The South Dakota Department of Health offers Civil Money Penalty (CMP) funds to enhance the quality of life for nursing home residents. These funds are derived from penalties imposed on facilities not meeting Medicare and Medicaid standards. Eligible projects include support for residents during facility closures, relocation assistance, and initiatives that promote resident and family engagement in care quality. The program aims to reinvest CMP revenues to benefit vulnerable populations in the state.