Foundations
1,304
Total Assets
$4.7B
Total Giving
$1.4B
Active Grants
314
National Rank
#28
South Carolina Grants: Rural Infrastructure, Workforce Investment & Community Development Funding
South Carolina's grant ecosystem is anchored by a strong commitment to rural development and infrastructure investment, reflecting the state's diverse economic geography that ranges from the thriving Charlotte-adjacent Upstate corridor to the coastal Lowcountry and the historically underserved rural Midlands and Pee Dee regions.
The South Carolina Rural Infrastructure Authority (RIA) leads the state's infrastructure grant efforts, announcing more than $45 million in competitive grant funds for fiscal year 2025-2026.
Through two competitive funding rounds annually, RIA's Basic Infrastructure program helps communities comply with environmental quality standards and improve capacity, while the Economic Infrastructure program builds or enhances local infrastructure to support job-creating economic development.
Key State Programs
Rural Infrastructure Authority (RIA) Grants
More than $45 million annually in competitive grants through two funding rounds. The Basic Infrastructure program supports environmental compliance and capacity improvements, while the Economic Infrastructure program funds job-creating development projects in communities across South Carolina.
Community Development Block Grants (CDBG)
Federal HUD pass-through funding administered at the state level for non-metropolitan communities, supporting neighborhood revitalization, infrastructure improvements, housing programs, and economic development projects that benefit low- and moderate-income residents.
Rural Infrastructure Fund (RIF)
Targets Tier III and Tier IV counties designated by the Department of Revenue, providing financial assistance for infrastructure and economic growth activities in South Carolina's most underserved rural areas through the Department of Commerce.
Economic Development Set-Aside Program
Overseen by the Coordinating Council as the state's primary business development tool, this program assists companies locating or expanding in South Carolina by funding road improvements, site development, and related infrastructure through local government partnerships.
ReadySC and Apprenticeship Carolina
State-funded workforce training programs that help businesses train new employees while reducing employer costs. ReadySC provides customized training solutions for companies creating new jobs, and Apprenticeship Carolina supports registered apprenticeship program development.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the South Carolina Rural Infrastructure Authority?
The RIA administers more than $45 million in annual competitive grant funding through two rounds per year. The Basic Infrastructure program helps communities meet environmental quality standards and improve service capacity, while the Economic Infrastructure program funds local infrastructure projects that support job-creating economic development. Eligible applicants are typically local government entities and special purpose districts.
How does South Carolina's tier system affect grant eligibility?
The South Carolina Department of Revenue designates counties across four tiers based on economic indicators. Tier III and Tier IV counties, representing the state's most economically challenged rural areas, qualify for the Rural Infrastructure Fund and receive priority consideration for several other state programs. This tiered approach directs resources where economic development support is most needed.
What grants are available for South Carolina nonprofits?
South Carolina nonprofits can access USDA Rural Business Development Grants for projects benefiting small and emerging rural businesses, capacity-building grants of up to $10,000 for community-based organizations in eligible locations, CDBG-funded community development projects, and Southeast Crescent Regional Commission funding for infrastructure, business development, and workforce initiatives.
How can South Carolina businesses get workforce training grants?
ReadySC provides customized, no-cost training solutions for companies creating new jobs in South Carolina. Apprenticeship Carolina helps employers develop registered apprenticeship programs with tax credits and technical support. Both programs are designed to reduce training costs while building a skilled workforce pipeline for expanding and relocating businesses.
What federal pass-through grants does South Carolina administer?
South Carolina administers several major federal pass-through programs including CDBG for community development, HOME Investment Partnership for affordable housing, the National Housing Trust Fund, Emergency Solutions Grants for homelessness prevention, and HOPWA for housing assistance. The 2026-2030 Consolidated Plan establishes priorities for these programs over the next five years.
Explore
South Carolina Funding Resources
Top Foundations
Largest Foundations in South Carolina
| # | Foundation | Assets |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Darla Moore And Richard Rainwater Foundation | $658.1M |
| 2 | Joy Unspeakable Foundation | $463.9M |
| 3 | Bluecross Blueshield Of South Carolina Foundation | $357.9M |
| 4 | Movement Resources | $276.8M |
| 5 | Drs Bruce & Lee Foundation | $255.4M |
Active Grants