The Grand Strand Chapter of the South Carolina Native Plant Society (SCNPS) is offering Spring 2025 Grant opportunities to support projects focused on native plants in the Inland Empire region of South Carolina, including Florence, Georgetown, Horry, Marion, and Williamsburg counties. This funding aims to help local organizations, community groups, and schools protect and restore native plant populations, as well as educate the public on the importance of these plants in sustaining ecosystems and promoting biodiversity.

The SCNPS recognizes the significant challenges faced by local communities in maintaining healthy environments, including the spread of invasive species and the loss of native plant habitats. This grant program seeks to support projects that can educate the public, engage youth, and restore vital ecosystems by utilizing native plants. Emphasis is placed on projects that involve cultural significance, rare species, or focus on removing invasive species to restore native habitats. The program offers grants of up to $1,500 per project, with a goal of funding 3 to 4 projects in Spring 2025.

The grant application process includes submitting a detailed proposal, project budget, and support letters, including written permission for use of the project location if applicable. A 10-week timeframe is given for project implementation, and grant recipients will be required to provide a final report detailing the project’s outcomes, which may include public presentations, blog posts, or site tours. Special consideration is given to projects that include matching funds, multiple partners, and high community engagement.