Best Youth Sports Grants in Tennessee

Senior Center Capital Grants

The Department of Disability and Aging (DDA) is accepting applications for competitive grant funding for senior centers. The Tennessee General Assembly has provided $5 million to be distributed to senior centers throughout the state. The one-time funding is intended to support senior centers in providing older adults with access to resources, activities and social connection.

Senior centers are invited to apply for grant funding ranging from $5,000 to $50,000. The grant funding is encouraged to fund the following goals:

• Capital Projects, including building improvements and equipment

The Ralph J. Torraco Scholarship for Special Education, offered by the UNICO Foundation, provides two scholarships of $2,500 each for U.S. students pursuing degrees in Special Education. Eligible candidates must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and plan to continue their studies into the 2026-2027 academic year. This scholarship supports students with various disabilities, ensuring that education is accessible and equitable for all.

The Robert J. Tarte Scholarship for Italian Studies, offered by the UNICO Foundation, supports students of Italian descent pursuing a major or minor in Italian Studies or Language. Valued at $1,000, this scholarship is awarded to full-time undergraduate students attending accredited institutions in the U.S. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 and continue their studies through the 2026-2027 academic year, with preference given to those demonstrating financial need.

The Guglielmo Marconi Engineering Scholarship, offered by UNICO Foundation, provides $1,250 to students of Italian descent pursuing engineering degrees in various disciplines. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens, enrolled full-time in accredited programs, and maintain a GPA of at least 3.0. This scholarship not only supports academic achievement but also promotes the heritage and contributions of the Italian American community, continuing UNICO's legacy of service and support.

The Carolyn L. Kuckein Student Research Fellowship, awarded by Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, supports first and second-year medical students conducting research over 2 to 12 months. With a total funding of $7,000, students can receive reimbursement for travel expenses up to $1,000 for presenting their findings at national conferences. Eligibility requires enrollment in schools with active AΩA chapters, while those taking a year off for research or holding a PhD are ineligible.

CommonSpirit Health offers the Community Health Improvement Grant to enhance health equity and service systems for underserved populations. Through collaborative efforts with 501(c)(3) organizations, this initiative provides financial support for essential health projects. Grant amounts range from $19,500 for small grants to $150,000 for standard grants, varying by hospital. Participating hospitals include those under Catholic Health Initiatives and Dignity Health, aimed at addressing significant community health needs.

The Tennessee Bar Foundation's IOLTA Grant Program offers support to law-related organizations improving access to legal services for low-income communities. With over $3 million awarded in 2025, the program encourages both new and existing grantees to apply. Grants fund critical services such as legal representation, mediation, and support for domestic violence survivors. The Foundation is committed to fostering positive change and urges eligible organizations to submit their applications.

The Southern Documentary Fund (SDF) offers a Production Grant aimed at supporting Southern documentary filmmakers. With funding made possible by the MacArthur Foundation, SDF prioritizes nonfiction projects in production that showcase the rich tapestry of Southern stories. Up to seven grants of $15,000 each will be awarded to help elevate underrepresented voices and narratives. Applicants must have ties to Southern states and meet specific eligibility criteria to apply.

The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Tennessee provides essential funding for rural areas to enhance their drinking water systems, sewage disposal, and solid waste management. This program is aimed at households and businesses that struggle to secure commercial credit. Eligible applicants include governmental entities, private nonprofits, and federally-recognized tribes. The funding can be utilized for various purposes including construction, legal fees, and equipment acquisition, ensuring improved public health and environmental quality.

The Cigna Group Foundation is launching the Improving Youth Mental Health Grant, committing $9 million over three years to enhance mental health support for youth aged five to 18. This initiative targets post-pandemic challenges, offering resources to parents, caregivers, and youth service professionals. Nonprofits are encouraged to apply for funding between $100,000 and $150,000 to develop programs that promote social-emotional skills, enhance caregiver support, and improve access to mental health interventions in underserved communities.

The Arts Education Project Support grant from the Tennessee Arts Commission aims to enhance arts education by funding hands-on projects that foster creativity and learning among Tennesseans. This competitive grant supports initiatives led by professional artists or instructors, focusing on measurable outcomes in community-based arts learning, educator training, and youth programs. Projects must start after July 1, 2026, and conclude by June 15, 2027, with specific application guidelines to ensure clarity and focus.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers a variety of scholarships for students in the Dietetic Technician Program, with over 250 scholarships available. Ranging from $500 to $25,000, these scholarships help support aspiring dietetic professionals. Applicants need to complete a single application to be considered for multiple scholarships based on eligibility. Membership in the Academy is encouraged but not mandatory for applying.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for dietetic interns, allowing a single application to apply for multiple awards. Scholarships range from $500 to $25,000, with eligibility for interns enrolled through June 30, 2024, including those with off-cycle matches. Applicants should consider their career goals in areas like clinical dietetics, culinary arts, and nutrition education. Academy membership is encouraged but not required. Fundraising determines the number of scholarships available each year.

The Corporate Giving Program by the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation supports nonprofit organizations that enhance community welfare. Focus areas include agriculture, education, fighting hunger, and public safety. Eligible applicants must have IRS 501(c)(3) status and a Taxpayer Identification number. Requests are prioritized for programs directly benefiting communities near Perdue facilities across various states. The foundation emphasizes responsible stewardship and community engagement in all funding decisions.

Technology Grants

These grants are open to any public library in Tennessee for the purchase of technology for use in the library. This is a 50/50 matching grant, which means that for every grant dollar received, a matching local dollar is required. This is a reimbursement grant, so as the grantee receives applicable invoices for purchases made, the State will reimburse half of each until the grant award has been met.

Applications will be rated based on need and the applicant’s ability to meet or exceed the following terms and conditions:

• Are a recognized public library by TSLA;
• Are currently in compliance with Children’s Internet Protection Act;
• Follow the grant application procedures and meet grant application deadlines;
• Demonstrate a clear ability and designated personnel to administer the grant responsibly;
• Present realistic cost/funding estimates under $20,000.00 for the grant objective;
• Offer well-focused, specific project proposals that identify specific objects or supplies to be procured, that concentrate on promoting technology in the public library for the staff and the public.

2027 Technology Grant

The Tennessee State Library and Archives is pleased to provide a grant opportunity to public libraries across Tennessee for their technology needs. This grant is supported in part by the U. S. Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act.

The 2027 Technology Grant is available for public libraries to replace or purchase technology for use by staff or the public. Grant funds are available for the following:

• Computers
• Software
• Networking hardware
• Peripherals

About Us

50 years of affordable housing innovation

Since 1973, THDA has been at the forefront of creating housing opportunities in Tennessee.

Our purpose

• Promote the production of more affordable new housing units for very low-, low-, and moderate-income individuals and families in Tennessee.
• Promote the preservation and rehabilitation of existing housing units for very low-, low-, and moderate-income individuals and families.
• Bring greater stability to the residential construction industry and related industries so as to assure a steady flow of production of new housing units.

Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) Program

About the Emergency Solutions Grant Program (ESG)

THDA administers the federally funded Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) Program on behalf of the State of Tennessee to fund the provision of services necessary to help persons who are experiencing homelessness or at-risk of homelessness to quickly regain stability in permanent housing.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for graduate and doctoral students pursuing degrees in nutrition and dietetics. With scholarship amounts ranging from $500 to $25,000, applicants can utilize a single application to be considered for multiple opportunities. Eligibility includes enrollment in accredited programs and other criteria such as experience in education or dietetics. Membership in the Academy is encouraged, although not required, for most scholarships.

The David, Helen and Marian Woodward Fund, established by Marian Woodward Ottley in 1974, aims to support non-profit organizations in Georgia and neighboring states. The fund prioritizes capital projects and educational programs that enhance graduation rates, particularly those with religious affiliations. Grants are awarded exclusively to 501(c)(3) organizations, while governmental agencies can also apply. The foundation's mission underscores a commitment to improving the world for future generations.

CSX Charitable Investments offers the Pride in Service Grants to support organizations that honor and assist military members and first responders. Focus areas include safety, mental health, community bridging, workforce development, and addressing food insecurity. Eligible organizations include those with 501(c)(3) status, government entities, and educational institutions. Grants aim to uplift communities and recognize the contributions of those who serve, while ensuring alignment with specific charitable criteria.

State Board Programming Regrants (SBPG)

The Tennessee Historical Records Advisory Board (THRAB) is pleased to provide a grant opportunity for improving the preservation of and access to Tennessee’s historical records, educate and train records custodians, and support archival program development and enhancement.

The grants will be available up to $5,000 per institution and are available to any government entity or not-for-profit organization that holds permanent, historically valuable archival collections. There is no match requirement,

Grant funds are available for the following:

Technology

• This category provides funding for hardware, software, peripherals, and other technology items used to create online digital collections.
• Items requested may not exceed $5,000.

Training

• This category provides funding for registration costs for webinars or workshops related to conservation, digitization, and digital project planning for archivists and museum personnel.

Contracted Services

• This category provides funding to hire a vendor or independent contractor for the purpose of digitization or conservation services.
• You must include a quote for these services from a specific vendor as part of your application.

Contract/Part-Time Archivist

• This category provides funding to hire a contract or part-time archivist for the duration of the grant period to scan documents and create corresponding metadata.
• This person cannot already be employed by or paid by your organization. This cannot be supplemental to an existing salary or hourly employee.

Supplies

• This category provides funding for archival shelving units, acid-free, lignin-free folders and boxes, and other necessary archival supplies or environmental monitoring devices.

501(c)(3) nonprofits providing hunger-relief services in Tennessee and other eligible states can apply for Food Lion Feeds Charitable Grants to purchase food for their programs. Organizations running youth sports or youth-serving activities that also address food insecurity within 20 miles of a Food Lion store may be eligible to apply bi-annually.

The Southern Equality Research Grant, offered by the Campaign for Southern Equality, aims to empower students and early career researchers to conduct crucial studies on LGBTQ+ issues in the South. With over a third of LGBTQ+ Americans residing in this region, there is a significant need for research to address legal protections and social inequities. This initiative seeks to elevate the voices and experiences of LGBTQ+ Southerners, fostering a deeper understanding of the policies affecting their lives.

Tennessee 501(c)(3) nonprofits with youth skills, job readiness, or community access programs can access funding through RBC Foundation – USA for initiatives that build in-demand skills, support inclusive prosperity, or advance environmental sustainability. Eligible organizations must have a three-year track record, a $100,000+ budget, and be located where RBC Wealth Management has a business presence.

The Current Art Fund, administered by Tri-Star Arts and supported by the Andy Warhol Foundation, grants $60,000 annually to Tennessee-based visual artists aged 21 and older. The program promotes innovative public-facing projects that enhance the contemporary art dialogue in Tennessee. In 2025, grants of $7,500 will be awarded to eight selected artists and collectives, encouraging diverse artistic engagement and community impact, while prioritizing BIPOC and AAPI applicants.

The James M. Cox Foundation Grant offers support to nonprofit organizations focused on conservation, early childhood education, family empowerment, and health. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and located in areas where Cox Enterprises operates. Grant applications are accepted year-round, with deadlines before Trustee meetings. Preference is given to organizations with a history of local engagement. This foundation embodies the philanthropic spirit of its founder, James M. Cox, by giving back to the community.

Investing in Our Communities

Regions Bank and Regions Foundation are committed to helping individuals, families, and businesses achieve financial success.

We work alongside nonprofit organizations, local businesses, government and service agencies to address social and economic issues, assist in building inclusive economic prosperity and help more members of our communities benefit from the rewards of a growing economy.

We make strategic and disciplined community investments in programs that seek to achieve three target outcomes:

Economic and Community Development

• Affordable housing
• Job creation
• Small business development
• Homebuyer education and retention
• Neighborhood revitalization and stabilization

Education and Workforce Readiness

• Student competency and skill building
• College and career readiness
• Educational access and success
• Credential building and employment
• Educator training and resources

Financial Wellness

• Financial education to youth, adults, and vulnerable populations
• Financial planning tools and resources, including Regions Next Step®
• Integrated asset-building

The Appalachian Landscapes Project Capital Grant, offered by the Open Space Institute, supports vital conservation initiatives aimed at preserving biodiversity and enhancing landscape connectivity. Established in 1974, the OSI has protected over 2.5 million acres in the Eastern US and Canada, focusing on land that ensures clean drinking water and wildlife habitats. This grant is specifically for projects within the Appalachian Landscapes Project service area, promoting sustainable community benefits.