Community Action Grant (SD Community Foundation)
Eligibility
South Dakota nonprofits and schools with community-focused education programs. The Community Action Grant prioritizes projects with clear community impact and measurable outcomes.
Program Goals
The SDCF Community Action Grant supports high-impact community programs in South Dakota. Education programs that create lasting community benefit — including STEM access, technology literacy, and workforce readiness — are strong fits.
Read the GrantApplication and Distribution
Applications submitted through the SDCF portal. The July 6, 2026 cycle is now closed. Monitor sdcommunityfoundation.org for the next cycle announcement.
Cycle Notes
Annual competitive cycle. The July 2026 deadline has passed. Monitor sdcommunityfoundation.org for the next cycle, typically announced in spring.
Grant Award Amount
Two award tiers: $20,000 standard and $50,000 for larger community-scale programs. The $50K tier requires evidence of broader community impact beyond the school.
Allowable Purchases
Forward Education Products for This Grant
These kits align to the learning outcomes this program funds.
- Coding for Good Kit — an all-in-one coding, robotics, and AI literacy toolkit using micro:bit for real-world challenges
- Climate Action Kit — a beginner-friendly STEM kit combining micro:bit sensors to code solutions for climate change and sustainability
- Forward Education Learning Platform — curriculum-aligned STEM lessons, coding tutorials, career profiles, and PD courses
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the two award tiers?
A $20,000 standard award and a $50,000 tier for programs with demonstrated, larger-scale community impact.
When is the next cycle?
The July 2026 cycle is closed. Monitor sdcommunityfoundation.org for the next announcement.
What makes a strong Community Action Grant application?
Clear community impact, measurable outcomes, and a plan for sustainability beyond the grant period.
Can individual schools apply?
Yes — South Dakota schools are eligible as direct applicants.
How can Forward Education help?
We help frame STEM programs in terms of community economic and workforce impact that aligns with SDCF community action priorities.
Need Help Writing Your Grant Application?
Forward Education works with schools and districts to build strong funding proposals.
- Curriculum alignment documents — South Dakota standards mapped to our kits
- Program quotes and pricing
- Letters of support
- Project ideas and scope-and-sequence
