Beyond Idea Grants
Forecasted
Beyond Idea Grants support community organizations in developing, testing, and spreading ideas that address South Dakota needs, strengthen community-based problem solving, and advance equitable change.
Funder: South Dakota Community Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): July 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: $5,000–$100,000 per year; developing ideas capped at $50,000 per year
Summary: Supports community-based projects that develop, test, and spread ideas to meet South Dakota needs and advance equitable change.
Key Information: Applicants should be public nonprofits verified under IRS Publication 78 or work through a verified fiscal sponsor.
Description
The South Dakota Community Foundation’s Beyond Idea Grant (BIG) Program supports community-based problem solving in partnership with the Bush Foundation. It funds innovative projects and ongoing, well-established efforts that develop, test, and spread ideas to make the region better for everyone. The program also aims to inspire, equip, and connect leaders to lead equitable change more effectively across South Dakota.
BIG prioritizes realistic projects grounded in community needs, meaningful local investment, and stakeholder engagement. Thoughtful, inclusive approaches with strong community support receive particular consideration. Applicants should demonstrate the capacity to execute their proposed plan or explain how they will address capacity needs. Funding is distributed statewide, with review informed by community leaders representing different South Dakota communities and life experiences.
