South Dakota Community Foundation Launches Major Grant Initiatives for 2026

Northeast Radio SD News – South Dakota - The South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF) Board of Directors has approved three new strategic initiatives to support nonprofit organizations across the state. Beginning in January 2026, the foundation will open funding opportunities focused on Child Wellbeing, Housing, and Workforce Development.

These new initiatives will be supported through the South Dakota Fund grant program. The SDCF Board unanimously approved the focus areas during a recent meeting, citing them as critical needs for communities throughout South Dakota.

To support these efforts, SDCF is increasing grant caps significantly for these specific sectors. Nonprofits may apply for up to $50,000 for planning and development projects, and up to $100,000 for implementation projects.

The three focus areas are defined as follows:

·        Child Wellbeing: Addressing issues impacting development at all stages of a child’s life.

·        Housing: Supporting the development, access, and sustainability of affordable housing options.

·        Workforce Development: Enhancing workforce skills and improving employment opportunities.

“These initiatives represent a bold step forward in tackling the critical issues that affect the daily lives of South Dakotans,” said Ginger Niemann, SDCF Senior Program Officer. “We are committed to empowering nonprofits with the resources they need to drive meaningful, lasting change.”

Nonprofits interested in these funds must demonstrate how their proposed projects align with one of the three new initiative areas. Applications will be accepted through the SDCF online grant portal on a rolling basis, starting with a Letter of Inquiry (LOI).

In addition to these new high-value grants, the South Dakota Fund will continue its traditional grantmaking operations. Grants of up to $20,000 will remain available for the foundation’s six ongoing focus areas: Culture, Economic Development, Education, Financial Literacy, Health, and Human Services.

For more information on funding opportunities, visit www.SDCommunityFoundation.org.