Best Memphis Grants for Nonprofits in Tennessee

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on improving economic mobility and social progress through partnerships with nonprofits. It prioritizes basic needs, income creation, stable housing, and community empowerment. By supporting vulnerable populations, the foundation aims to enable individuals to achieve their goals and contribute positively to their communities. The foundation emphasizes sustainable progress, ensuring that all community members have access to essential resources and opportunities for growth.

The Kemmons Wilson Family Foundation offers Innovation Grants ranging from $10K to $25K to support creative projects that address generational poverty. Eligible organizations must have 501c3 status and operate in the Greater Memphis area. The foundation emphasizes innovative solutions that target under-resourced communities and encourages partnerships with nonprofits. The grants aim to empower organizations making a significant impact through original initiatives, aligning with the Foundation's Building Strong Families strategy.

Focused on basic needs, health, education, and civic initiatives, this program invites Memphis, Tennessee 501(c)(3) organizations in Shelby County to seek support for community-focused services. Valero Energy Foundation funds nonprofits near its major operations, so Memphis-area groups addressing these priority areas may be eligible for invitation-only grants.

The Thomas W. Briggs Foundation Grants support organizations that positively impact Memphis, Tennessee, through strategic funding. Eligible nonprofits must have 501(c)(3) status, a Memphis office, and focus on BIPOC communities for the Equity Fund. The foundation operates on a biennial cycle, offering Core Funding and the Equity Fund, with applications accepted in spring and fall. Prior discussions are encouraged before applying to ensure alignment with funding priorities.

Students from West Tennessee counties, including Memphis-area Shelby County, interested in aviation-related careers can receive scholarship support for college study. Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee gives preference to applicants from Carroll County and nearby counties, helping high school graduates and other students pursue aviation education and training through the Walter Reece (Walt) Montgomery Scholarship Fund.

Detroit HBCU Scholarship Endowment

This generous Detroit HBCU Scholarship provides need-based awards to support students who are in one of the eligible zip codes of Detroit.

The purpose of the Detroit HBCU Scholarship Endowment Fund is to provide 1 (one) annual, renewable, and need-based scholarships up to $5,000 (five-thousand dollars) to students graduating from a high school with a Detroit address or students transferring from a metro-Detroit community college to attend a partner HBCU.

The TAC Arts Project Support grant provides funding for diverse arts projects that enhance community vitality in urban areas. Eligible applicants, including Tennessee-based nonprofit organizations and local government entities, must match the requested grant amount dollar-for-dollar. Projects may encompass various art forms such as visual arts, music, and theater, promoting engagement and accessibility. Applicants should carefully review ineligibility criteria to ensure their proposals align with the funding philosophy.

The Steel Dynamics Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community quality of life and local economies by supporting 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Priorities include higher education, economic development, and human services, particularly in communities where Steel Dynamics operates. Grants are awarded based on community impact, employee involvement, and organizational integrity. Applicants must demonstrate a strong ethical track record and effective community engagement to qualify for funding opportunities.

The FedEx St. Jude Championship offers an equipment grant to Memphis nonprofit organizations with 501(c)3 status, aimed at supporting local athletes in their golf pursuits. This initiative promotes equity and access to the sport, ensuring that all equipment provided is used solely for the intended programs. By focusing on under-resourced communities, the grant encourages participation in golf, fostering a love for the game and helping to develop young athletes in the region.

The Neighborhood Builders Program, supported by Bank of America, empowers 501(c)(3) nonprofits through a two-year leadership development initiative. Participants receive funding, training, and networking opportunities to enhance their impact in communities. Since its inception, the program has invested over $346 million, training more than 4,000 leaders. The initiative focuses on advancing social mobility and economic opportunities, ensuring affordable housing, and fostering resilient communities. This program is vital for nonprofits aiming to strengthen their leadership and community engagement.

The TAC Small Urban Partnership Support Grant provides competitive operating support to arts organizations in Tennessee's urban counties. Eligible organizations must have a minimum budget of $30,000 and can request up to 20% of their cash operating expenses. A one-to-one dollar match is required. Applicants must demonstrate a history of funding from the Tennessee Arts Commission and meet specific eligibility criteria related to IRS status and recognized art forms.

Foot Locker Foundation, Inc-UNCF Scholarship

Foot Locker Foundation, Inc. has partnered with UNCF to fund this scholarship program for students attending a UNCF member college or university during the 2026-2027 school year.

Foot Locker Foundation works to improve upward mobility to build a more equitable and inclusive future through education, economic development and community empowerment. For nearly twenty years, it has partnered with leading organizations helping to mobilize and uplift local communities. 

When applying, a UNCF member school will appear in the drop down options in the application. 

Completed application packages include: transcript, essay, and one letter of recommendation from a faculty member, employer or other community member familiar with your academic performance. All information will be submitted in the appropriate section of the online application.

Individual Award

• Up to $5,000.00

Memphis, Tennessee 501(c)(3) nonprofits working in education, community development, arts, public spaces, or civic leadership can access funding through Hyde Family Foundations to strengthen local programs and impact. Eligible U.S.-based organizations must serve Memphis or influence Tennessee statewide policy, with priority for initiatives that build a thriving, unified Memphis.

The Positively Memphis Community Grant supports nonprofit organizations in the Memphis area, providing funding between $1,000 and $25,000 for initiatives that promote health, wellness, and sports. This grant aims to empower organizations that align with the mission of creating positive change and strengthening the Mid-South community. Applications are accepted quarterly, focusing on various priority areas to address community needs effectively.

Mobile Beacon's Connect for Success program addresses the digital divide by providing schools with essential technology resources. This initiative offers up to 25 laptops and 4G devices with 12 months of complimentary high-speed internet service. By targeting students and communities facing digital inequities, the program ensures that all students can complete homework and access educational content from home. With ongoing support options available post-grant, Mobile Beacon is committed to fostering equitable learning environments and empowering educators to enhance digital inclusion.

Undergraduate students from Memphis, Tennessee attending accredited HBCUs can receive up to US $5,000 to support their higher education costs through this scholarship program. With a mission to advance Black student success, United Negro College Fund partners with the NBA Foundation to assist eligible Bay Area and designated county residents, including those in Shelby County, Tennessee.

501(c)(3) nonprofits in Memphis, Tennessee can apply for Bank of America Charitable Foundation’s Stable Housing and Empowering Communities funding to support basic needs, income creation, affordable housing, and community development. Organizations serving low- and moderate-income residents with housing stability and broader community revitalization programs in eligible local markets may benefit.

Undergraduate music majors at UNCF member institutions, including those from Memphis, Tennessee (Shelby County), can apply for the Joe Williams Music Scholarship, with awards up to US $6,000 for the 2025–2026 academic year. Eligible students must be full-time, have at least a 2.5 GPA, and major in visual and performing arts.

The Positively Memphis Community Grant supports nonprofits in the Mid-South, offering grants between $1,000 and $25,000 for initiatives that drive positive change. The program, linked to the FedEx St. Jude Championship, focuses on empowering organizations that align with community needs. Quarterly applications prioritize specific focus areas, ensuring targeted support to maximize impact. This grant aims to strengthen the Memphis community through collaborative efforts and meaningful engagement.

The Katie Rose Martin Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, honors the spirit of Katie Rose, a dedicated student with aspirations in cosmetology. This fund supports high school graduates and second-career adults attending accredited Tennessee cosmetology schools. By fostering educational opportunities, the scholarship aims to empower individuals to achieve their dreams in the beauty industry, ensuring Katie's legacy of hard work and determination lives on in future generations.

Nonprofits, government entities, and educational institutions expanding educational opportunities in Memphis, Tennessee and the broader Mid-South can apply for US $1,000 - US $25,000 to improve access to learning resources. PGA Tour’s Positively Memphis Community Fund supports 501(c)(3) organizations serving the listed Mid-South counties through quarterly, education-focused community grants.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving the Memphis area can seek project or capital funding for health and wellness, education and youth development, community development, or arts access initiatives. Focused on community impact, Autozone Foundation invites Memphis, Tennessee nonprofits to apply for one-time grants that support inclusive, community-wide programs rather than general operating expenses.

The Nike Community Impact Fund focuses on enhancing active, inclusive communities in the Mid-South, specifically in Shelby County (TN) and DeSoto and Marshall Counties (MS). By awarding $100,000 in grants annually, the fund supports local nonprofits and schools that create opportunities for children to engage in play, sport, and physical activity. This community-driven approach ensures that the voices of local Nike employees are integrated into the decision-making process, driving lasting change.

Grants help Memphis, Tennessee municipal governments and eligible counties develop household hazardous waste collection facilities and infrastructure. Administered by the Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation, funding supports permanent or temporary collection sites, storage buildings, safety equipment, signage, and operating and disposal reimbursement in line with the state’s 2015–2025 Solid Waste and Materials Management Plan.

The Idlewild Presbyterian Community Support Grant aims to embody God’s love by providing funding to community non-profits that offer compassionate services. This initiative enhances Idlewild's outreach efforts, fostering a just, inclusive, and welcoming community. Eligible applicants are community non-profits dedicated to these values, ensuring broad access to support for impactful local initiatives.

LeBlanc/Baker Scholarship for Change

LeBlanc/Baker Scholarship for Change provides a renewable need-based scholarship to male students attending an accredited, four-year Historically Black College or University (“HBCU”).

LeBlanc/Baker Scholarship for Change award recipients will receive a 2026-2027 academic year award of up to $4,000 based on need. UNCF will send electronic notification to the eligible recipients in April 2026; and scholarship funds will be disbursed to the eligible recipients’ enrolled institutions in the fall 2026.

Scholarship Renewal

If funds are available, recipients may be eligible for awards for up to four (4) additional years within a five (5) year period.

Previously awarded students shall be notified and must meet the following criteria:

• Maintain academic standing consistent with the student’s institution standards for continued enrollment.
• Annually complete FAFSA and continue to have a demonstrated unmet financial need, as verified by their college or university.

A student who transfers from an HBCU to any accredited four-year college or university after successfully completing at least one (1) academic term remains eligible for recurring awards for attendance at their new institution if they otherwise meet the renewal eligibility criteria.

A student who withdraws or takes a leave of absence, after completing at least one (1) academic year, has the equivalent of a full academic year to reenroll at any accredited four-year college or university.

Academy Sports + Outdoors, a leading sporting goods retailer, supports community initiatives by providing donations to registered 501(c)(3) organizations. Their focus is on promoting safety and responsibility in sports and outdoor activities. Proposals must foster community engagement and must not be affiliated with religious or political groups. Events should take place in areas with Academy stores, ensuring a positive local impact while encouraging active lifestyles and connection among community members.