The Jim Hess Community Forward Grant

The Jim Hess Community Forward Grant, offered by the Black Hills Area Community Foundation (BHACF), provides targeted support to nonprofit organizations serving the Northern Hills region of South Dakota. Honoring the legacy of Dr. James (Jim) Hess, a long-time resident of Spearfish, educator, entrepreneur, and community leader, the grant reflects his deep commitment to collaboration, innovation, and local engagement. Each year, BHACF awards two grants of $15,000 to eligible nonprofits that demonstrate creativity, community partnerships, and sustainable practices. The grant supports both new and ongoing projects across a wide range of funding areas, as long as the activities are located within Butte, Lawrence, or Meade Counties in South Dakota. Eligible applicants include IRS-designated 501(c)(3) public charities, schools, government entities, and religious organizations. However, the grant does not fund projects that involve religious or political activity, fundraisers, debt retirement, capital campaigns, or those seeking reimbursement for previously incurred expenses. Applications must also not involve legislative lobbying or discriminatory practices. The 2025 application cycle opens on September 1 and closes on October 13. Following the application deadline, the BHACF Grants Committee will select recipients and notify the awarded organizations. Awardees are expected to sign a grant agreement within one week of notification and will be required to submit a final report upon completion of the funded project. Organizations new to BHACF's grant portal must first create an account before applying. All applications are submitted online, and questions regarding the process or account access can be directed to Carrie Robley at carrie@bhacf.org. The Jim Hess Community Forward Grant embodies the spirit of Jim Hess’s philanthropic legacy by supporting organizations that enhance quality of life in the Northern Hills through inclusive, community-focused, and impactful initiatives.