Best Grants for Human Trafficking Nonprofits in Tennessee

The Human Trafficking Youth Prevention Education (HTYPE) Demonstration Program aims to empower local education agencies (LEAs) by funding initiatives that equip school staff to identify and respond to human trafficking signs. Collaborating with nonprofit partners, LEAs will provide students with essential knowledge on avoiding victimization and recognizing trafficking indicators. This program fosters a safer school environment by establishing reporting procedures and safety plans in consultation with local law enforcement, ultimately enhancing awareness and prevention of human trafficking in educational settings.

The OVC FY 2026 grant aims to improve outcomes for child and youth victims of human trafficking by integrating policies at state and Tribal levels. This funding opportunity focuses on developing strategic plans to address the challenges faced by minor victims, enhance coordination among systems like child welfare and juvenile justice, and ensure effective identification and prosecution of traffickers. By fostering multidisciplinary approaches, the program seeks to provide comprehensive support and services to these vulnerable populations.

The OVC FY 2026 Preventing Trafficking of Girls program aims to provide crucial prevention and early intervention services for girls at risk of human trafficking. This initiative, backed by the US DOJ's Office of Justice Programs, supports efforts to protect vulnerable populations, including young women up to age 25, from both sex and labor trafficking. Applicants are encouraged to outline their strategies to effectively serve survivors and address diverse needs in their proposals.

The OVC FY 2026 Services for Victims of Human Trafficking aims to enhance victim service programs across the United States. This initiative supports victims by providing critical services to address their diverse needs, including mental health support and assistance with legal challenges. By funding comprehensive programs, the Office for Victims of Crime seeks to combat human trafficking effectively and promote recovery for affected individuals, ensuring their rights and well-being are prioritized.

The OVC FY 2026 Integrated Services for Minor Victims of Human Trafficking aims to enhance the availability and quality of services for minor victims. This funding opportunity reflects the commitment of the U.S. Department of Justice to combat human trafficking and provide critical resources to support law enforcement and service organizations. Applications must be submitted in JustGrants by October 5, 2026, ensuring timely access to vital funding for enhancing victim support services.

The OVC FY 2026 Enhanced Collaborative Model (ECM) Task Force to Combat Human Trafficking aims to strengthen responses to human trafficking through multidisciplinary collaboration. This initiative provides essential resources for victim identification, service delivery, and case investigations, all supported by the U.S. Department of Justice. By fostering cooperative efforts, the program seeks to enhance the effectiveness of local jurisdictions in combating this critical issue and ensuring the safety and rights of affected individuals.

The OVC FY 2026 Housing Assistance for Victims of Human Trafficking program aims to provide vital housing and support services for victims of human trafficking. This initiative, led by the U.S. Department of Justice, focuses on rapid rehousing, ensuring victims transition quickly into stable, permanent housing. Organizations interested in applying must demonstrate their capacity to deliver comprehensive support aligned with federal guidelines. Applications are due by October 5, 2026, through JustGrants.

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. 

Nonprofits and other eligible organizations combating human trafficking can seek US $1,000,000 - US $10,000,000 to support prosecution of traffickers, protection of victims, and prevention efforts across the U.S. and territories. Tennessee human trafficking organizations may be eligible for this US Department of State Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons opportunity.

Nonprofits and other eligible organizations combating child trafficking can apply for US $5,000,000 - US $10,000,000 to implement Child Protection Compact projects; awards support prosecution of traffickers, comprehensive care for child victims, and prevention efforts. Tennessee human trafficking organizations may be eligible if proposing a partnership country and multi-year national child protection strategy.

Graduate-level nurses in Tennessee studying human trafficking or related issues such as sexual exploitation, domestic violence, or child maltreatment can receive scholarship support for master’s or doctoral programs. Nurses Educational Funds provides funding to U.S. RNs enrolled in accredited nursing programs with strong academic records and at least two semesters of study remaining.

Children’s 501(c)(3) nonprofits in middle Tennessee working on critical needs, medical care, or educational support may be eligible for project funding that addresses vulnerable youth, including those affected by human trafficking. Focused on child welfare, Speedway Children's Charities prioritizes homeless, orphan, foster, and trafficking-impacted children across its Nashville service counties.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Middle Tennessee seeking to break cycles of conditions like human trafficking, homelessness, or poverty can apply for Spark Grants to launch self-sustaining, innovative projects. Focused on social transformation, Impact100 Nashville prioritizes high-impact proposals serving underserved populations across its five areas, including family and health and wellness, within the greater Tennessee region.

501(c)(3) nonprofits addressing issues like human trafficking, homelessness, poverty, addiction, hunger, or recidivism in Middle Tennessee can seek up to US $100,000 for innovative, transformative programs. Impact100 Nashville provides this Transformation and Innovation Grant to established organizations serving at least one Nashville-area county, with priority for high-impact, sustainable projects for underserved populations.

501(c)(3) nonprofits facing unbudgeted, time-sensitive emergencies that threaten critical services can apply for Community Foundation of Tampa Bay’s Critical Needs List funding, with awards up to US $250,000. Organizations working on human trafficking and related basic needs may be eligible if they serve the foundation’s Florida counties, even if they are outside Tennessee.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) children’s organizations addressing issues like homelessness, foster care, and human trafficking in specified Tennessee and Virginia counties can seek program support; grants from Speedway Children's Charities help fund critical services for vulnerable children. Tennessee human trafficking nonprofits serving child victims in these counties may be especially competitive under this Bristol Chapter opportunity.

Grants from Levin Family Foundation help Tennessee human trafficking and related nonprofits fund projects addressing the opiate epidemic, human trafficking, anti-bullying, suicide prevention, and pollinator conservation. U.S. 501(c)(3) organizations may receive up to US $30,000, with priority for work in the Greater Dayton Area that aligns with the foundation’s mission.

Nonprofits addressing human trafficking, child welfare, homelessness, or related humanitarian needs in Tennessee can seek funding for programs that build self-sufficiency and resilience. The Father's Table Foundation provides up to US $750,000 for efforts such as anti-human trafficking initiatives, education, employment assistance, and services for vulnerable women and children in the U.S.

Tennessee human trafficking and human rights nonprofits can access funding through Humanity United to address forced labor, human trafficking, peacebuilding, and related public engagement worldwide. Registered charities and equivalent organizations, as well as some for-profits and fiscally sponsored initiatives, may receive approximately US $150,000 for programs in regions including Asia-Pacific, Colombia, Nepal, South Sudan, and the U.S.

Tennessee cultural nonprofits with U.S.-based operations can access funding for arts and science programs that create lasting, measurable impact and engage young people. William Randolph Hearst Foundation supports established institutions such as museums, theaters, symphonies, and arts schools with program, capital, and limited general or endowment support, offering awards of more than US $100,000.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Tennessee that support basic needs, at-risk youth, or domestic violence survivors can access funding via The Tjx Foundation, if located within 15 miles of a TJX store, distribution center, or office. Human trafficking service providers may be eligible if their programs align with these focus areas and the foundation’s community mission.

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.

The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.

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.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.