Best Grants for Youth Programs in Tennessee

The CBE Community Outreach Program Grant empowers local charities in Iowa, Tennessee, and Texas by providing financial support through employee donations. With contributions ranging from $5 to $25 per paycheck, CBE Companies donates over $15,000 quarterly to foster community engagement. This initiative reflects CBE's commitment to making a meaningful impact through partnerships and volunteerism, enhancing the quality of life in the communities they serve.

Grants from Appalachian Community Fund help Tennessee LGBTQ organizations expand resources and build capacity for grassroots social change. Youth-focused initiatives, especially those led by or serving LGBTQ youth in Appalachian counties, may be eligible for funding to support organizing, education, and community leadership development in the region.

Focused on youth development, Memorial Foundation invites Tennessee organizations to apply for funding that supports youth and childhood initiatives, education, and wellness. Nonprofits serving young people in Tennessee communities may be eligible for grants that address health care access, social services, and critical needs, aiming to improve overall quality of life.

Focused on youth development, Radio Systems Corporation invites Tennessee organizations to apply for funding that supports youth education, leadership, and related services. Charities working with young people in Knox County and surrounding areas may benefit from this opportunity, especially those dedicated to youth programs and positive community impact.

Focused on youth services, Republic Bank Foundation Inc invites Tennessee organizations to apply for support of education, youth programs, and community initiatives. Nonprofits serving young people and families in Tennessee may be eligible for funding or in-kind donations to strengthen local communities and enhance youth well-being.

With a mission to foster STEM and robotics education, John Deere Foundation provides Tennessee youth programs with funding for FIRST LEGO League Challenge teams. Priority is given to underserved, underrepresented, or rural student groups. Youth organizations in Tennessee focused on STEM learning may be eligible for this opportunity.

Grants from J. Bulow Campbell Foundation help Tennessee youth organizations access capital funding for education, youth development, and human services. Eligible nonprofits in Tennessee with youth-focused programs may benefit, especially those seeking support for facility improvements or expansion. Priority is given to accredited, privately-supported, and Christian-based institutions.

Tennessee youth programs can access funding through John Deere Foundation to participate in the FIRST Robotics Competition. Grants prioritize teams serving underserved or underrepresented students in STEM fields, especially those associated with schools or nonprofits. Youth organizations focused on robotics and STEM engagement may be eligible if they meet location and participation criteria.

Tennessee Arts Commission supports arts organizations in Tennessee by providing competitive operating support to qualified groups. While the grant is focused on arts and culture, organizations offering youth programming within their arts mission may be eligible. Funding amounts depend on organization size, review ratings, and available resources.

Tennessee youth programs can access funding through John Deere Foundation to support participation in the FIRST LEGO League Explore initiative, emphasizing STEM education for underserved and underrepresented students. Programs serving youth in rural or low-income communities, or those with a focus on diversity and inclusion, may be especially eligible for this grant opportunity.

John Deere Foundation supports STEM and educational equity initiatives in Tennessee by funding FIRST LEGO League Discover teams. Youth programs focused on underserved or underrepresented students in STEM fields may be eligible, especially those in Greene County. Priority is given to teams that engage John Deere mentors and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in their activities.

Grants from Nashville Predators Foundation help Tennessee youth organizations and family service programs fund specific projects and one-time initiatives. Eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government agencies serving youth and families in Nashville and Middle Tennessee may apply for grants ranging from $500 to $10,000. Priority is given to smaller organizations and new applicants.

Grants from Tennessee Arts Commission help Tennessee arts organizations in select urban counties sustain their operations. Eligible nonprofits engaged in visual, performing, or literary arts may receive operating support. Arts groups serving youth or offering youth-focused programming in Tennessee’s urban areas may be eligible for this competitive funding opportunity.

Tennessee Arts Commission provides Tennessee organizations with support for hands-on art education projects. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, schools, libraries, and local government agencies aiming to deliver high-quality arts learning experiences. Youth programs in Tennessee focused on engaging students in the arts may benefit from this competitive grant opportunity.

The CFMT Sports Fund, part of the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, aims to promote teamwork and community engagement among children. By providing grants up to $5,000, it supports 501(c)(3) organizations that foster a sense of belonging and hope through team-based activities, particularly during critical afterschool hours. This initiative not only keeps youth engaged but also addresses pressing community challenges, driving positive change for a thriving and inclusive future.

Tennessee youth programs can access funding through Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee for initiatives that enhance the health and wellbeing of children and youth in Coffee County. Grants up to $20,000 are available for 501(c)(3) organizations and government entities, supporting projects that benefit local young people, animals, and environmental conservation efforts.

The Holloway Family Foundation, established in North Central Texas, aims to enhance community quality of life regardless of race, gender, or religion. Their mission focuses on financial security, creative expression for under-resourced youth, and mentorship for personal development. The foundation supports organizations that provide workforce training, artistic opportunities for children, and guidance for youth in need. By fostering individual growth and economic stability, they empower families and strengthen communities, staying true to the founders' core values and personal experiences.

East Tennessee Foundation provides Tennessee youth programs with funding to benefit women, children, and youth in Knox County. Eligible projects include early childhood education, health drivers, and prevention of Adverse Childhood Experiences. Organizations serving youth in this region may be eligible to apply for support through this fund.

Grants from CIGNA Foundation help Tennessee youth programs improve mental health and social-emotional development. Nonprofits serving children and teens, especially in underserved communities, may be eligible for support to expand programming, equip caregivers and educators, and increase access to mental health care. Awards range from $100,000 to $150,000 for one-year projects.

Tennessee youth organizations can access funding through Tennessee Housing Development Agency to develop or preserve rental housing for low- and very-low income populations. Programs serving youth aging out of foster care, as well as those addressing special needs or poverty, may be eligible for support. Projects must focus on affordable rental housing solutions.

Focused on youth development, East Tennessee Foundation invites Tennessee youth programs to apply for support. Grants up to $20,000 over two years are available for projects addressing early childhood education, health determinants, or prevention of Adverse Childhood Experiences. Eligible organizations must primarily serve children and youth within the Foundation’s 25-county service area.

The Joe C. Davis Foundation Grant focuses on supporting charitable organizations that embody core values such as personal initiative, hard work, and education. With an emphasis on education, healthcare, and community services, the Foundation primarily supports initiatives in Nashville, Tennessee. It funds a variety of programs, from K-12 education to healthcare services, and prefers one-time grants that enhance existing programs or create new ones with sustainable financial models.

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. 

Grants from East Tennessee Foundation help Tennessee youth programs improve life literacy for children and young people in Washington County. Projects that foster reading skills, healthy habits, financial literacy, and leadership among youth may be eligible. Collaborative proposals with measurable community impact are encouraged, with funding up to $50,000 for two-year terms.