Best Grants for Capital Funding in Tennessee

State and local agencies, local governing boards, nonprofits, tribes, and higher education institutions in eligible Tennessee Appalachian counties can apply for Appalachian Regional Commission’s Area Development grants to fund critical infrastructure and workforce or business development projects. This program can support capital projects such as water and wastewater systems, transportation networks, broadband, and other public infrastructure investments.

Tennessee 501(c)(3) organizations developing educational testing, support materials, or innovative learning projects can apply for Dunn Family Foundation grants; awards US $5,000 - US $25,000 for project costs. Initial grants fund specific projects, with potential for later operating or capital support connected to previously funded work.

Tennessee 501(c)(3) nonprofits seeking support for health, human and social services, education, youth, seniors, or community services can apply for capital or operating funding. Focused on improving quality of life, Memorial Foundation prioritizes data-driven, trauma-informed organizations serving counties in the former Nashville Memorial Hospital service area; a GivingMatters.com profile is required.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

Nonprofit land trusts and, in special cases, public agencies in Tennessee can secure capital funding for permanent conservation easements or fee purchases of large forest blocks on the Southern Cumberland Plateau. With a mission to protect climate-resilient habitats, Open Space Institute provides grants and low-interest loans for high-priority land acquisitions and related transaction costs.

Nonprofit organizations providing health, education, or humanitarian services can seek support for programs benefiting marginalized communities in Tennessee and worldwide. Semnani Family Foundation provides global human and social services groups with funding that may help with facilities or other capital-related needs while prioritizing healthcare access, disaster relief, women and children’s health, and support for vulnerable populations.

Established 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving Davidson County residents with budgets over $250,000 can seek Frist Foundation support for capital projects and other capacity-building efforts that expand services or strengthen long-term sustainability. With a mission to improve quality of life, the foundation provides Tennessee organizations with general, technology, and selected operational grants in areas like arts, food insecurity, health disparities, and housing.

Nonprofits, federally recognized tribes, and higher education institutions in Tennessee can access USDA support to capitalize rural microloan revolving funds and provide training and technical assistance to micro-entrepreneurs. Focused on rural entrepreneurship and microfinance, this program offers up to US $500,000 in loans plus technical assistance grants for working capital, equipment, refinancing, and real estate improvements.

Tax-exempt public charities in Tennessee and the broader six-state region seeking capital support for facilities or major improvements may be eligible for grants supporting education, youth development, human services, public spaces, and cultural institutions. Grants from J. Bulow Campbell Foundation prioritize capital projects, with strongest emphasis on organizations in Atlanta and Georgia and Christian-based educational institutions.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations undertaking capital or programmatic projects in Tennessee’s Shelby, Fayette, and Tipton Counties, plus nearby Crittenden (AR) and Desoto (MS), can seek funding for health, education, social justice, arts, or community enhancement initiatives. The Assisi Foundation of Memphis supports efforts that strengthen community well-being and organizational capacity in the Mid-South region.

Focused on operating support for arts organizations, this Tennessee Arts Commission program helps Tennessee-chartered 501(c)(3) arts nonprofits in designated urban counties cover a portion of their cash operating expenses. Eligible groups with budgets of at least $30,000 and a history of Commission funding can request up to US $45,000 with a 1:1 cash match.

Local government entities and 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organizations in rural Tennessee counties can seek capital funding to build, renovate, or expand arts and cultural facilities. Grants from Tennessee Arts Commission help Tennessee communities upgrade stages, improve cultural facilities, enhance accessibility, and invest in infrastructure that supports ongoing arts programming and creative placemaking.

Local governments and Tennessee 501(c)(3) nonprofits can seek US $3,000 - US $30,000 for arts-driven projects that enhance the physical and social character of their communities. Grants from Tennessee Arts Commission help Tennessee communities revitalize downtowns or neighborhoods, transform liabilities into assets, and develop arts-based initiatives that may include capital elements like equipment integral to the project.

Nonprofit conservation and community organizations, municipalities, Tribal Nations, and agencies in Tennessee can access funding through The Nature Conservancy’s Resilient and Connected Appalachians Grant Program for fee and easement acquisition projects, up to US $100,000. Eligible projects protect resilient, connected lands within the Appalachians and include strong community benefits, engagement, and equity-focused outcomes.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations focused on health, basic needs, or education in Tennessee can seek general operating, program, or invitation-only capital support. HCA Foundation’s Middle Tennessee Fund prioritizes groups headquartered in select Middle Tennessee counties with budgets between $500,000 and $20,000,000 that engage HCA Healthcare colleagues through board service and volunteer involvement.

Nonprofit organizations in select Tennessee counties seeking capital or matching funds for health, education, human services, or community development projects can apply for Thompson Charitable Foundation support. Eligible counties include Knox, Anderson, Scott, and Blount, with funding focused on improving quality of life through facilities, infrastructure, or other capital needs.

West End Home Foundation provides Tennessee senior services and aging-focused nonprofits with program and capital funding to support older adults. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations must serve adults 60+ in Cheatham, Davidson, Robertson, Rutherford, Sumner, Williamson, or Wilson counties and demonstrate capacity for measurable outcomes that promote dignity, connection, and successful aging.

Rural public entities and nonprofit organizations in Tennessee can seek funding for capital projects and technical assistance that support small rural businesses. Focused on rural development, USDA Rural Development invites eligible applicants to improve facilities, infrastructure, transportation, business incubators, and related community economic development through Opportunity and Enterprise Rural Business Development Grants, with awards ranging from US $10,000 - US $500,000.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.

Tennessee 501(c)(3) organizations seeking capital or major capacity-building support for education, healthcare, or community and social services can access funding through Joe C Davis Foundation’s Transformational Grant. These one-time awards back facilities, technology, and other large initiatives for stable, proven nonprofits primarily serving the Nashville area.

Senior centers in Tennessee can apply for capital funding of US $5,000 - US $50,000 to support building improvements and equipment that enhance resources, activities, and social connection for older adults. Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging administers these one-time Senior Center Capital Grants statewide.

Focused on capital maintenance and improvements, this program invites Tennessee museums that are 501(c)(3) nonprofits or affiliated with a governmental entity to seek US $5,000 - US $100,000 for facility upgrades. Eligible projects include building, bathroom, roof, HVAC, accessibility, and electrical improvements that support the museum’s mission and public service.

Lawson Family Foundation

The Lawson Family Foundation was established by Phil Lawson in 2020 to serve as a catalyst for the development of a more healthy, prosperous, and inclusive Knoxville community. As a private grantmaking foundation, the Lawson Family Foundation focuses support on organizations involved in the areas of Justice & Economic Mobility, Education & Youth Development, Prevention of Exploitation & Violence, and Community Health & Food Security. 

Driven by the belief that every life has equal value, the Lawson Family Foundation exists to support efforts that promote justice and opportunity in all aspects of society, primarily in Knoxville, Tennessee. In doing so, it seeks to achieve a positive impact in marginalized communities that will last for generations.

Lawson Family Foundation Community Health & Food Security Grant

Access to basic healthcare and nutritious food is essential for individual well-being and community resilience. However, many families in the Knoxville area lack access to healthy food, preventative care, and wellness resources—contributing to persistent physical and mental health disparities, particularly in historically underserved communities.

The Foundation supports programs that expand access to nutritious food, promote healthy lifestyles, and strengthen community-based health resources. 

Lawson Family Foundation

The Lawson Family Foundation was established by Phil Lawson in 2020 to serve as a catalyst for the development of a more healthy, prosperous, and inclusive Knoxville community. As a private grantmaking foundation, the Lawson Family Foundation focuses support on organizations involved in the areas of Justice & Economic Mobility, Education & Youth Development, Prevention of Exploitation & Violence, and Community Health & Food Security. 

Driven by the belief that every life has equal value, the Lawson Family Foundation exists to support efforts that promote justice and opportunity in all aspects of society, primarily in Knoxville, Tennessee. In doing so, it seeks to achieve a positive impact in marginalized communities that will last for generations.

Lawson Family Foundation Education & Youth Development Grant

Education is foundational to long-term success and thriving communities. Yet many children in the Knoxville area face disparities in access to quality education, supportive environments, and essential resources—including children with physical, mental, intellectual, and learning disabilities, as well as those from historically underserved communities.

The Foundation invests in efforts that strengthen early childhood development, improve literacy, and expand pathways to college and career. We support programs such as after-school enrichment, mentorship, and family-centered initiatives, with an emphasis on inclusive approaches that ensure all children—regardless of ability or background—have access to the tools, support, and opportunities needed to reach their full potential.

Lawson Family Foundation

The Lawson Family Foundation was established by Phil Lawson in 2020 to serve as a catalyst for the development of a more healthy, prosperous, and inclusive Knoxville community. As a private grantmaking foundation, the Lawson Family Foundation focuses support on organizations involved in the areas of Justice & Economic Mobility, Education & Youth Development, Prevention of Exploitation & Violence, and Community Health & Food Security. 

Driven by the belief that every life has equal value, the Lawson Family Foundation exists to support efforts that promote justice and opportunity in all aspects of society, primarily in Knoxville, Tennessee. In doing so, it seeks to achieve a positive impact in marginalized communities that will last for generations.

Lawson Family Foundation Justice & Economic Mobility Grant

Persistent poverty in Knoxville, especially in East Knoxville, reflects the lasting impact of historic injustices such as redlining and Urban Renewal. These forces have contributed to declining homeownership, loss of generational wealth, and increased risk of displacement—disproportionately affecting historically underserved communities and communities of color. Individuals with prior incarceration often face additional barriers to stable employment and economic advancement.

The Foundation supports initiatives that expand access to financial literacy, capital, and quality employment. 

Lawson Family Foundation

The Lawson Family Foundation was established by Phil Lawson in 2020 to serve as a catalyst for the development of a more healthy, prosperous, and inclusive Knoxville community. As a private grantmaking foundation, the Lawson Family Foundation focuses support on organizations involved in the areas of Justice & Economic Mobility, Education & Youth Development, Prevention of Exploitation & Violence, and Community Health & Food Security. 

Driven by the belief that every life has equal value, the Lawson Family Foundation exists to support efforts that promote justice and opportunity in all aspects of society, primarily in Knoxville, Tennessee. In doing so, it seeks to achieve a positive impact in marginalized communities that will last for generations.

Lawson Family Foundation Prevention of Exploitation & Violence Grant

Human trafficking and domestic violence remain urgent and growing threats across Tennessee, with women and children disproportionately affected. These forms of exploitation and abuse undermine individual dignity and destabilize families and communities.

The Foundation is committed to preventing exploitation and supporting survivors through a comprehensive approach: strengthening education and prevention efforts, supporting victim protection and restoration, and advancing the prosecution of offenders.