Best Dickson County Grants for Nonprofits in Tennessee

The TAC Rural Arts Project Support offers funding for diverse arts projects that enhance community engagement and vitality in rural Tennessee. Eligible applicants include local nonprofits and government entities. Projects can involve professional artists, workshops, public performances, and initiatives to improve accessibility for underserved populations. Ineligible uses of funding include K-12 education projects, insurance, and capital improvements. This grant fosters artistic collaboration and innovation in rural settings.

The TAC Small Rural Partnership Support (SRPS) provides crucial operating support for 501(c)(3) arts organizations in Tennessee's rural counties. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a minimum annual budget of $30,000 and a history of funding from the Tennessee Arts Commission. Grants can cover up to 30% of total cash operating expenses, with a maximum request of $25,000, requiring a one-to-one dollar match. This competitive program fosters arts in underserved communities.

The SCC Nashville Grant Program, managed by Speedway Children's Charities, supports nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving the lives of children in middle Tennessee. With over $80,000 distributed in 2024, the program prioritizes funding for organizations addressing homelessness, education, and critical health needs. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits focused on children's welfare. The grant process includes a pre-proposal and an invitation-only full proposal, culminating in a celebration at the Annual Night of Joy.

The Tennessee Arts & Rural Health Initiative Grant, funded by the Tennessee Arts Commission, aims to enhance health and wellness in rural hospitals through arts-based programs. With a budget of $75,000 from the NEA, the initiative supports 4-6 hospitals, offering grants between $5,000 to $25,000. Projects may include artist-led classes, meditation gardens, and healing spaces, leveraging the therapeutic power of the arts to improve patient outcomes and community engagement in healthcare settings.

The Rural Arts Facilities Fund, established by the Tennessee Arts Commission, aims to support rural communities in enhancing their arts and cultural facilities. Grants of up to $200,000 are available for projects that benefit local arts programming, foster community identity, and promote economic growth. Eligible applicants include local governments and nonprofit organizations in rural Tennessee. By investing in these facilities, the program seeks to improve access to arts experiences, create jobs, and stimulate tourism in underserved areas.

The Piedmont Natural Gas Company Grant Program, part of the Duke Energy Foundation, supports community vitality through grants of $20,000 or less. Focus areas include vibrant economies, climate resiliency, and promoting opportunity and inclusion. Eligible organizations must have tax-exempt status and serve communities without discrimination. The foundation prioritizes measurable community impact and does not fund certain entities, including for-profits and religious organizations. Applications are accepted year-round on a rolling basis.

The First Generation College Opportunity Fund, established by a generous donor, aims to support first-generation college students in the Nashville area. Managed by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, this fund provides scholarships to students with a minimum 3.0 GPA attending public or private high schools in the region. It empowers young individuals to pursue higher education, fostering a more inclusive and thriving community for generations to come.

Impact100 Nashville's Spark Grant Category seeks to empower non-profit organizations addressing critical issues in Middle Tennessee, such as homelessness and poverty. By offering $35,000 grants, the program aims to fund innovative, self-sustaining projects that create lasting social change. Eligible organizations must demonstrate a sustainable plan and a track record of financial stability. This initiative encourages philanthropic collaboration among women to drive community transformation and elevate under-served populations.

The H. Franklin Brooks Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, offers renewable scholarships to graduating high school seniors from Middle Tennessee. This fund particularly supports self-identified LGBTQ+ students, especially those whose families have ceased financial support for their education. With over 30 years of community impact, CFMT aims to foster a thriving, inclusive environment through collective philanthropy.

Impact100 Nashville's Transformation and Innovation Grant supports nonprofits that drive social change in Middle Tennessee. With a focus on innovative programs addressing issues like homelessness and poverty, this grant offers $100,000 for transformative projects. Organizations must have a solid history, a sustainable plan, and the capacity to implement impactful solutions within 24 months. The initiative empowers women philanthropists to collectively invest in community improvement, fostering a vibrant network dedicated to social transformation.

The Bishop Joseph and Stephaine Walker Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, supports African-American students from the region who have a GPA of 2.5 or higher and a demonstrated history of community service. Annually, two to five scholarships are awarded to eligible graduate students pursuing advanced degrees, helping to foster educational advancement and community engagement in Middle Tennessee.

The Middle Tennessee Fund Grant, offered by the HCA Healthcare Foundation, supports nonprofits in addressing community needs related to basic necessities, healthcare, education, and the arts. Since its inception in 1997, it has prioritized organizations with established relationships with HCA Healthcare. Eligible applicants must be 501c3 organizations with a minimum budget of $250,000, serving the Middle Tennessee area, and demonstrating engagement with HCA Healthcare through board involvement or volunteerism.

The Teddy Wilburn Scholarship Fund, established by country music star Teddy Wilburn, aims to provide financial assistance to students at Tennessee State University and Vanderbilt University. This scholarship supports those who have demonstrated a commitment to their education, requiring a minimum B average in the last two years of high school. By promoting access to higher education, it reflects Wilburn's dedication to helping others achieve their academic aspirations, despite his own lack of a college experience.

The Charlene (Charlie) Jane Toomey Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, honors the legacy of a beloved community member dedicated to education and empowerment. This scholarship aims to support college-bound female students from 40 counties in the region, prioritizing those with a minimum 3.0 GPA and a commitment to extracurricular and community involvement. Through this initiative, we celebrate Charlie's belief in the transformative power of education and her enduring impact on future generations.

The Donald and Frances McDonald Endowed Scholarship Fund, administered by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, supports students majoring in engineering technology or aerospace at Middle Tennessee State University. Eligible applicants must maintain a 3.0 GPA, demonstrate financial need, and be enrolled full-time. This renewable scholarship aims to foster academic success and career development in vital engineering fields, contributing to the growth and inclusivity of the local community.

The J. Barrett Melton Family Memorial Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, offers renewable scholarships for students in middle Tennessee. Applicants must have a minimum ACT score of 21 and a GPA of 3.0. Preference is given to students from Cannon County. This initiative aims to support local students in achieving their academic goals, fostering a thriving community through education.

The John and Belinda Havron Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, supports students from the 40 counties of Middle Tennessee with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. This scholarship aims to alleviate financial barriers for students pursuing post-secondary education, reflecting John and Belinda's commitment to fostering educational opportunities. Their legacy emphasizes the importance of community support and encourages scholarship recipients to 'pay it forward' in their own journeys.

The B’nai B’rith Maimonides Lodge #46 Scholarship supports legally blind students pursuing post-secondary education. Established by the oldest Jewish service organization in Nashville, this scholarship honors 38 years of community service through a summer camp for visually-impaired children. The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee administers the fund, ensuring assistance reaches those in need while fostering an inclusive community. Eligible applicants must provide documentation of their legal blindness to apply.

The Brandon Key Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, honors a young man dedicated to community service and civil rights. This scholarship supports Middle Tennessee students with a minimum GPA of 2.5, who demonstrate a commitment to serving their community and plan to attend an accredited college. Preference is given to applicants from low socioeconomic backgrounds aiming for Historically Black Colleges or Universities, promoting inclusivity and opportunity for future generations.

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 Brown Center for Autism: Benjamin M. Liske Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, supports graduating seniors from Middle Tennessee diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. This scholarship honors Ben Liske, who excelled academically despite his challenges. Since its inception in 2008, the Brown Center has provided vital resources and training to families and professionals, aiming to enhance the lives of those affected by autism and promote a thriving, inclusive community.

The Community Foundation for Dickson County, established in 1999, aims to enhance the quality of life in Dickson County by supporting local nonprofits. With a focus on education, leadership, and community improvement, the foundation invites 501(c)(3) organizations and government entities in the area to apply for grants up to $5,000. Funding priorities include environmental initiatives, youth and elder support, and the preservation of historical sites.

The Phoenix Club of Nashville Grant supports nonprofits making a positive impact on the lives of children in Middle Tennessee. Founded in 2001, the Phoenix Club has a legacy of fundraising for local charities, having raised millions for various causes. To apply, interested organizations can complete an initial request questionnaire available on their website. This opportunity allows nonprofits to connect with a network of leaders dedicated to community service and enhancement.

About PLTW Biomedical SciencePLTW Biomedical Science students have experience with state-of-the-art tools and techniques that are used by professionals in hospitals and labs every day.Through this partnership, Regeneron is supporting PLTW grants to schools interested in starting and expanding PLTW Biomedical Science programs beginning in the 2027-2028 academic year.Program Requirements:

• Grantee must use their grant funds to expand their existing PLTW Biomedical Science program.
  • Example expansion activities include but are not limited to adding an additional PLTW Biomedical Science course not previously offered,
  • and/or adding additional class periods of an existing PLTW Biomedical Science courses previously offered,
  • and/or training additional teachers in PLTW Biomedical Science courses for the 2027-2028 academic year. 

Grant Distribution Schedule:

• Total Award: $10,000
  • 2027-2028: $10,000

The PLTW Biomedical Science grant aims to enhance the existing program by funding the addition of new courses or extra class periods, along with teacher training for the 2025-2026 academic year. Eligible applicants include public and charter schools in specific Tennessee counties. Grantees must adhere to reporting requirements and participate in surveys to ensure continual program improvement and stakeholder communication.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

The Drue Smith/Society of Professional Journalists’ Scholarship Fund, established in memory of pioneering journalist Drue Smith, supports college juniors, seniors, and graduate students from Middle Tennessee pursuing careers in journalism or broadcast news. This fund honors Drue's legacy as the first woman president of the Society of Professional Journalists in Tennessee, promoting professional development for aspiring journalists and fostering the next generation of media professionals in a rapidly changing landscape.