Grants Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ: Where to Apply for Grants?

Q: How do I begin the grant application process?

A: To apply for the Discover SC Web Grant, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Discover SC Web Grant Portal: Go to the official website of the Discover SC Web Grant. The portal is the central hub for applying and managing your grant submission.
2. Register/Sign Up: If you don’t already have an account, you will need to sign up. Click on the “Register” button to sign up. You will need to provide basic information about yourself and your organization. Pro-Tip-Make sure to select SC250-SC American Revolution Sestercentennial Commission Under Program of Interest.  
3. Log In and Complete the Application: After your account is activated, log in using your credentials. Navigate to the application section and fill out the necessary sections. You will be asked to provide details about your project, deliverables, outcomes, expected impact, and budget. 

Submit Your Application: Review all information for accuracy and then submit your application via the portal. Be sure to adhere to any document upload requirements or specific submission guidelines.

FAQ: Does my project meet the requirements for an SC250 grant?

Q: How do I know if my project is eligible for funding from SC250?

A: To be eligible for SC250 grant funding, your project must fall within the historical scope and mission of SC250. Specifically, projects must focus on the period between 1770 and 1783, which encompasses the key years leading up to and during the American Revolution.

Projects may include (but are not limited to):

• Historical research, exhibits, or publications related to South Carolina’s role in the Revolutionary era
• Public programs or events that educate and engage audiences on Revolutionary War themes
• Preservation or interpretation of Revolutionary War sites or artifacts

Projects that do not clearly relate to this 1770–1783 timeframe and to South Carolina’s role in the American Revolution are not eligible for SC250 funding.

If you’re unsure whether your project fits within this purview, we encourage you to contact the SC250 team for guidance before submitting your application.

FAQ: What items are not funded under SC250 grants?

Q: Can I use grant funds to cover travel expenses (e.g., airfare, lodging, food, insurance)?

A: No, travel expenses are not covered under this grant.
Travel costs—including airfare, transportation, lodging, and meals—are not eligible for reimbursement or direct payment through this funding. If your proposed activities require travel, you will need to secure alternate funding to support those costs. 

Insurance is also not eligible for funding. SC250 does not pay for fireworks or drone shows.

FAQ: Is there a match requirement for Major and Premier Project Grants?

Q: Do Major and Premier Project Grants require a funding match?

A: Yes, both Major and Premier Project Grants have a match requirement.
Applicants must provide a cash match equal to a percentage of the total project cost, as outlined in the grant guidelines. In-kind contributions (e.g., donated services, volunteer time, or materials) do not count toward the required match and will not be accepted as part of the matching funds.

This requirement ensures financial commitment and project sustainability beyond the scope of the grant itself. 

Please refer to the grant program guidelines for specific match ratios and documentation requirements.

FAQ: When is the deadline for Major and Premier Project Grant applications?

Q: What are the upcoming deadlines for Major and Premier Project Grant applications in FY26?

A: The upcoming application deadlines for FY26 are as follows:

• September 26, 2025
• December 12, 2025
• March 26, 2026
• June 26, 2026

Applications must be submitted by 3:00 PM on the deadline date to be considered.

FAQ: What documentation is required for grant applications?

Q: What documentation must be submitted with my application?

A: All applicants using a fiscal agent must submit the following required documents as part of their application:

1. Fiscal Agent’s Signed W-9 Form – The W-9 must be current and signed by an authorized representative.
2. Fiscal Agent’s Adopted Budget for the Current Fiscal Year – This should reflect the organization’s planned revenues and expenditures.
3. Fiscal Agent’s Operating Financial Statement for the Last Fiscal Year – A final or year-end financial statement showing actual revenues and expenses.
4. Newly Established  Fiscal Agent Documentation (if applicable) – If the fiscal agent is newly established and lacks some of the financial documents listed above, provide supporting materials that confirm the organization’s creation and legal status.

FAQ: What additional documents are required for non-profit applicants?

Q: I am applying as a non-profit organization. What additional documents do I need to submit with my grant application?

A: Non-profit organizations must provide the following documentation in addition to the standard application materials:

1. IRS 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(6) Determination Letter
   This is the official IRS letter confirming your tax-exempt status.
   Note: The EIN confirmation letter is not sufficient.
2. Secretary of State Annual Charity Registration Letter
   Must be current and valid (not expired). This confirms your organization is in good standing.
3. List of Current Board Members
   Include full names, titles, and affiliations (if applicable).

Mission Statement of the Non-Profit
A brief description of your organization’s mission and primary purpose.

FAQ: What is the start date for grant-funded project work?

Q: When can I begin work on my project and have expenses covered by grant funds?

A: Only project work that begins on or after the date listed on your official award letter is eligible for grant funding.

Any work or expenses incurred before the award date are not covered by the grant and will not be reimbursed. The award letter will clearly state the grant start date—this is the earliest point at which grant-funded activities and spending may begin.

To ensure compliance, do not begin project work or incur costs until you receive your award letter and confirm the official start date.

FAQ: When will the remainder of grant funds be received? 

Q: When will I receive the remaining 20% of my grant funds?

A: The remaining 20% of your grant funds will be reimbursed after the final report is approved. Once your final report has been reviewed and accepted, the funds will typically be released within 2 to 4 weeks.

Q: Why is the final report required for the release of the remaining funds?

A: The final report serves as a summary of your progress, outcomes, deliverables, and any financial expenditures related to the grant. It ensures that the project was completed in accordance with the grant’s objectives and that the funds were used appropriately. The report must be approved to confirm that all conditions have been met before the remainder of the funds is released.

Q: What happens if my final report is not approved?
A: If the final report is not approved, the release of the remaining funds will be delayed. You will be given the opportunity to address any issues or provide additional information needed for approval. Once the report meets all requirements, the funds will be released.