Best Blount County Grants for Nonprofits in Tennessee

The Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation offers competitive grants for municipalities to establish Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facilities (HHWCF). Eligible applicants include municipalities with populations over 100,000 and those meeting specific criteria under T.C.A. §68-211-828. Grants support the creation of permanent collection sites and temporary infrastructures. Eligible projects encompass safety equipment, signage, and operational reimbursements. Ineligible applicants include those with outstanding balances on previous grants. This initiative aligns with the state's solid waste management goals.

The Boyd Foundation, established in 2017 by Jenny and Randy Boyd, aims to improve the greater Knoxville area through strategic investments in education, arts, animal welfare, and mental health. With a focus on community strength and sustainability, the foundation supports various local organizations and initiatives. Their commitment to philanthropy reflects the family's dedication to enhancing the quality of life in Tennessee, ensuring meaningful change for those in need.

The CNS Y-12 Community Investment Fund, established by Consolidated Nuclear Security, LLC, supports local communities in Oak Ridge, TN and Amarillo, TX. Since its inception in 2015, it has awarded over 205 grants to more than 120 nonprofits. With grants ranging from $2,000 to $15,000 for one-year terms, organizations are encouraged to address funding priorities such as mental health support and early learning. The fund reflects a commitment to enhancing community welfare through strategic resource allocation.

The Economic Development Fund for East Tennessee Grant Program, established in 1991, aims to support charitable and economic initiatives that foster regional economic growth. Organizations eligible for funding must operate within East Tennessee's 25-county service area and provide necessary documentation, including nonprofit status. Grants, ranging from $5,000 to $6,500, will be awarded for one-year terms starting August 1, 2024, with applications opening in August 2024.

The Youth Endowment Fund Grant, managed by the East Tennessee Foundation, supports innovative solutions to challenges faced by youth within a 25-county service area. Grants of up to $20,000 are available for projects focusing on early childhood education, health drivers, and the prevention of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). Eligible organizations must demonstrate a commitment to serving youth and adhere to non-discrimination policies. This initiative aims to foster stronger, healthier communities through impactful youth programming.

The Harry W. and Carolyn W. Galbraith Memorial Fund Grant supports animal care organizations focusing on spaying and neutering programs for cats and dogs. Established in 2014, it awards grants ranging from $3,000 to $5,000 for one-year terms beginning August 2024. Eligible organizations must be located within the Foundation's service area and provide services primarily to low-income pet owners. Funds may also cover rabies vaccinations, enhancing overall animal welfare in the community.

The Radio Systems Corporation Grant aims to enhance animal welfare and support youth development by allocating a portion of corporate profits to charitable organizations. Eligible applicants must be located in Knox County and the surrounding eight counties in Tennessee. The grant prioritizes shelters, rescues, and training centers, focusing on initiatives that benefit both animals and young people in the community. This commitment reflects Radio Systems Corporation's dedication to giving back and fostering a positive impact.

The TAC Small Urban Partnership Support Grant provides competitive operating support to arts organizations in Tennessee's urban counties. Eligible organizations must have a minimum budget of $30,000 and can request up to 20% of their cash operating expenses. A one-to-one dollar match is required. Applicants must demonstrate a history of funding from the Tennessee Arts Commission and meet specific eligibility criteria related to IRS status and recognized art forms.

The In These Mountains: Infrastructure Grants, offered by South Arts, aim to preserve and promote the folk arts and traditional culture of Central Appalachia. This initiative supports non-profit organizations in Kentucky, North Carolina, and Tennessee, focusing on enhancing the resources necessary for sustaining and advancing traditional arts. Grants of up to $30,000 are available to address non-programming expenses, ensuring the continuity of cultural practices while prioritizing inclusivity and accessibility.

ATI Physical Therapy is dedicated to enhancing community health and wellness through its sponsorship and donation initiatives. With a mission to exceed customer expectations, ATI actively engages in philanthropic efforts that improve lives and promote quality care beyond clinic walls. They encourage requests for support while emphasizing a review process that ensures timely responses. Partnering with local organizations, ATI aims to elevate awareness of health and wellness, impacting thousands of lives each year.

The TAC Arts Project Support grant provides funding for diverse arts projects that enhance community vitality in urban areas. Eligible applicants, including Tennessee-based nonprofit organizations and local government entities, must match the requested grant amount dollar-for-dollar. Projects may encompass various art forms such as visual arts, music, and theater, promoting engagement and accessibility. Applicants should carefully review ineligibility criteria to ensure their proposals align with the funding philosophy.

The Thompson Charitable Foundation, established in 1987, aims to enhance the quality of life for communities in Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia. It focuses on funding nonprofit projects in health services, education, and community development. Grants are available for matching funds and capital projects but do not support endowments or religious activities. Preference is given to applicants previously funded by TCF. Interested organizations must submit a Letter of Inquiry before the application deadline.

The First Horizon Foundation Grant supports organizations in East Tennessee, focusing on areas such as arts, education, environment, financial literacy, and health services. Grants are available to eligible entities in cities like Knoxville, Maryville, and Chattanooga, while individuals and certain organizations, including K-12 schools and political groups, are ineligible. This initiative aims to strengthen communities through strategic investments.

The Brinker International Charitable Giving Program focuses on giving back to communities through support for kids, hunger, and education. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501c(3) non-profits and submit requests at least six weeks prior to events. The program does not support individuals, political or religious organizations, or explicit discrimination policies. Funding is provided through monetary donations or in-kind contributions like dining certificates.

The Katie Rose Martin Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, honors the spirit of Katie Rose, a dedicated student with aspirations in cosmetology. This fund supports high school graduates and second-career adults attending accredited Tennessee cosmetology schools. By fostering educational opportunities, the scholarship aims to empower individuals to achieve their dreams in the beauty industry, ensuring Katie's legacy of hard work and determination lives on in future generations.

The Y-12 FCU Gives Foundation Grant aims to combat childhood hunger in Tennessee by providing financial support to local organizations dedicated to this cause. Grants are awarded based on alignment with the Foundation's mission to nourish underprivileged children. Eligible organizations must be based in specific counties and ensure that funds remain local. The Foundation also offers additional support, such as volunteers and educational sessions, to enhance the impact of funded programs.

The Educational Foundation of America (EFA) supports the Reproductive Health & Justice Grant Program to enhance access to abortion and contraception throughout the U.S., particularly in Appalachia, Alabama, and Florida. EFA funds innovative organizations that advocate for reproductive rights, provide direct support to abortion services, and leverage impact investing strategies. This commitment aims to ensure reproductive freedom, foster equity, and promote sustainability in underserved communities.

Spectrum Digital Education Grants support nonprofit organizations in educating communities about broadband benefits and usage. These grants aim to bridge the digital divide, particularly for seniors and those with disabilities or ethnically diverse backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate community partnership, address specific needs, and provide measurable impact metrics. With a focus on financial feasibility and meaningful outcomes, this initiative ensures that underrepresented urban and rural communities gain access to essential digital resources, fostering long-term improvement in their lives.

The CALT Black Appalachian Storytellers Fellowship, supported by the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation, celebrates and preserves the rich traditions of Black Appalachian storytelling. This fellowship honors those who embody the history and culture of African Americans in the region. Each year, fellows are recognized at the National Black Storytelling Festival and Conference, receiving awards crafted by Dr. Dena Jennings. The program fosters a deeper understanding of these traditions and invites fellows to share their stories at future events.

The Area Development Grant Program, managed by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), supports economic growth in Appalachia through investments in critical infrastructure and workforce development. Targeting 423 counties across 13 states, the program encourages local communities to collaborate with state governments to identify and implement impactful projects. Key focus areas include enhancing utilities, promoting entrepreneurship, and strengthening local leadership. This initiative aims to uplift the 26 million residents of Appalachia, fostering sustainable economic opportunities.

The Self-Sustainability Granting offered by the Women’s Fund of East Tennessee aims to empower low-income women and girls by providing one-time grants to agencies that support their journey towards independence. This initiative focuses on addressing urgent needs and expanding services, ensuring a lasting impact in the community. By aligning with the fund's mission, these grants foster resilience and promote sustainable futures for families in East Tennessee.

The Tennessee Appalachian Regional Commission Funding supports economic development projects in middle and east Tennessee. Grants can reach up to $1,000,000 for construction and $500,000 for non-construction projects. Priorities include water and wastewater services to industries, basic services in rural areas, and unique community opportunities. This funding aims to enhance the quality of life and foster self-sustaining development in the Appalachian region.

The Senator Carl O. Koella, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Tennessee Lobbyist Association in memory of State Senator Carl O. Koella, aims to support bright young individuals from East Tennessee pursuing internships in the Tennessee State Legislature. With over 30 years of impactful philanthropy, the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee fosters positive change by connecting donors with community needs, ensuring that resources effectively contribute to a thriving and inclusive future.

The Arts Fund for East Tennessee Grant Program, established in 1986, supports artistic excellence and cultural diversity in East Tennessee. In 2024, it aims to sustain cultural traditions and encourage diverse artistic expressions. Grants ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 will be awarded for two-year terms starting July 1, 2024. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and those with fiscal sponsors, focusing on outreach to underserved populations and grassroots art initiatives.

The LGBTQ Fund Grant Program, offered by the Appalachian Community Fund, supports grassroots social change in Central Appalachia. It prioritizes funding for organizations that promote inclusivity and tackle systemic issues affecting LGBTQ communities, particularly youth. Grants are available to community-led organizations with a focus on building capacity and addressing social, economic, and racial justice. This initiative embodies a commitment to collective action and resource-sharing, fostering positive transformation in Appalachian communities.

Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development

The mission of the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development is to work as a team to promote workforce and economic development and improve workplace safety and health throughout Tennessee.

Rural Workforce Initiatives

Rural communities in Tennessee often struggle to access quality healthcare due to factors like limited facilities, long travel distances, workforce shortages, and high costs. The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development (TDLWD) is leading efforts to address workforce shortages across various industries, with healthcare as a priority.

Rural Healthcare Initiatives Grant 

The Program's Purpose

The Rural Healthcare Initiatives grant program aims to leverage existing healthcare training structures and expand apprenticeship and Workforce Development Initiatives to strengthen the pipeline of healthcare professionals in rural communities.

Financial support will be provided to sponsoring entities to offer training, certification, and apprenticeships, while also addressing ancillary costs like transportation, childcare, and examination fees that create barriers for participants.

Where will the grant provide services?

Potential recipients must identify a desired service area in their application. Service area must be in the 91 counties outside the major metropolitan counties of Davidson, Hamilton, Knox, and Shelby. Entities located within the counties of Davidson, Hamilton, Knox, and Shelby may apply for funding if funding is utilized for programing located in one of the other 91 counties in Tennessee. The service area must identify the need for the designated training or certification of the population based on county and regional employment opportunities and needs using local/state data and Labor Market Information. The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development will consult with applicants to ensure services are offered equitably across Tennessee.

What is the total grant award amount?

Applicants will propose their desired funding amount up to a maximum of $250,000 and will use the guidance found in this document.

How will subrecipients receive funds?

This is a reimbursable grant. Recipients will be required to submit requests at least once per month with supporting documentation to be reimbursed for allowable costs. Recipients must use The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development’s grant system, SmartSimple, for submissions. 

Learn more here.

The Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization (POWER) Initiative aims to revitalize communities impacted by coal industry transitions. This initiative provides funding for projects that diversify local economies, enhance job training, and create new employment opportunities. By fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, the POWER Initiative supports strategic investments that align with regional economic development plans, ensuring a more resilient future for coal-affected areas.