Best Aging Grants in Tennessee

Tennessee Arts Commission

The Tennessee Arts Commission was created in 1967 by the Tennessee General Assembly with the special mandate to stimulate and encourage the presentation of the visual, literary, music and performing arts and to encourage public interest in the cultural heritage of Tennessee. TN Arts Commission Governing Policies can be found here.

The mission of the Tennessee Arts Commission is to cultivate the arts for the benefit of all Tennesseans and their communities. Our vision is a Tennessee where the arts inspire, connect and enhance everyday lives.

Creative Aging Tennessee IV

Building on the successes of Creative Aging Tennessee I, II, and III initiatives, the Tennessee Arts Commission (TAC) continues to expand arts learning opportunities for older adults through its latest initiative, Creative Aging Tennessee IV. Funded in part by E. A. Michelson Philanthropy and the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies; and the State of Tennessee, this initiative connects vital resources to under-resourced communities to provide arts programming to older adults through nonprofit senior centers and governmental entities. Through this initiative, creative aging art classes and programs will continue to support serving older adults in rural communities and urban counties with “art deserts” to offer arts programming for older adults living with social isolation, reduced access to trained artists, and in geographically challenged areas. One of the purposes of this grant is to encourage local communities to apply for small micro-grants for projects that will remove barriers for older adults to increase participation in arts activities.

Application Deadline is 30 days prior to the beginning date of the project activity. This is a Rolling Grant opportunity which means applications will be accepted on a continual basis until funds are depleted and/or until April 1, 2027.

Company culture at Clark Associates emphasizes responsibility, sharing our success with others, and the importance of building strong communities. To help fulfill these goals, Clark Associates Charitable Foundation (CACF) was incorporated in 2001 and provides funding to organizations serving people in need and those delivering positive experiences for youth. CACF supports non-profits operating in and around its business locations and those where our employees volunteer and actively contribute. To date, CACF has distributed over $44 million in charitable contributions.

Organizations must be registered 501c3 charities serving three basic categories: people in need, innovative youth educational programs, and youth programs in music and the arts. People in need represents the largest giving category and includes homelessness, food insecurity, individuals with disabilities, victims of abuse, and people in recovery. Examples of other grant recipients include those assisting veterans, senior citizens, at-risk youth, academic enrichment, mentorship, leadership development, and those focused on the performing and visual arts.CACF evaluates grant applications submitted by non-profit organizations every month of the year.

Organizations developing innovative projects that increase independence for people with disabilities and older adults in Tennessee can apply for the Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging’s Innovation Grant, with awards up to US $20,000. Funding supports forward-thinking, scalable approaches, especially those using enabling technology and advancing employment, workforce development, person-centered practices, and quality of life.

Nonprofit organizations, local governments, and public transit agencies in Tennessee can access funding to improve transportation for seniors and individuals with disabilities through the Section 5310 program. Grants from Tennessee Department of Transportation support rolling stock and mobility management projects in small urban and rural areas, helping aging populations reach essential services and activities.

Senior centers in Tennessee can apply for capital funding to improve buildings and equipment and enhance services for older adults, with awards ranging from US $5,000 to US $50,000. Grants from the Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging support senior services that provide resources, activities, and social connection for aging populations.

Low-income agencies serving elderly or disabled homeowners in Tennessee can access funding to address critical home safety repairs and accessibility needs. Focused on emergency housing stabilization, Tennessee Housing Development Agency supports repairs to roofs, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, structural elements, windows, doors, and accessibility improvements, with awards up to US $24,999 per home.

Nonprofit and public agencies in Tennessee developing or preserving rental housing for low- and very-low income seniors and other vulnerable groups can apply for Tennessee Housing Development Agency’s competitive grants, with awards of US $200,000 - US $600,000. Funding supports activities like new construction, acquisition, rehabilitation, or conversion of units serving households at or below 80% of area median income.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with projects serving Japanese American seniors, youth, history, or arts and culture in Tennessee and nationwide can apply for JA Community Foundation grants of US $2,500 - US $50,000. Programs must be project-based rather than ongoing operating support, and fiscally sponsored projects are eligible.

Nonprofit organizations conducting applied research on adults age 60+ can seek support for interventional, translational, or health services and policy studies benefiting older adults and caregivers. Grants from RRF Foundation for Aging help Tennessee and other U.S. aging-focused groups pursue projects with national or Illinois regional relevance and strong dissemination plans.

501(c)(3) nonprofits serving older adults in Tennessee can apply for West End Home Foundation’s grants to support aging-related programs or capital projects. Funding is available for mission-aligned services in Cheatham, Davidson, Robertson, Rutherford, Sumner, Williamson, and Wilson counties that promote dignity, connection, and successful aging for adults, especially those age 60 and older.

With a mission to support health and human services, the Albert G and Olive H Schlink Foundation provides Tennessee organizations serving seniors and aging populations with flexible grant funding. Nonprofits focused on senior services, gerontology, patient care, hospice, or residential care may be eligible, with special consideration given to programs based in or benefiting Ohio communities.

Nonprofit organizations advancing advocacy for adults 60+ through regional or national policy-change projects in the U.S., including Tennessee, can apply for funding of US $10,000 - US $160,000. The Retirement Research Foundation supports efforts addressing seniors’ economic security, health care, housing, and related systemic issues, excluding lobbying for specific legislation.

Tennessee nonprofits serving older adults with health, wellness, or quality-of-life programs can access funding through the Wallerstein Foundation for Geriatric Life Improvement. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations may seek support for specific projects such as adult day care, dementia and stroke services, home health, nutrition, transportation, or geriatric research that helps seniors stay active and engaged.

Tennessee research institutions and universities focused on senior services and gerontology can access funding through the National Institutes of Health to establish Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Centers. These P30 center grants support geriatrics research and research education that advance ways to maintain or restore independence for older adults, within a nationally competitive program.

Tennessee 501(c)(3) public charities addressing the needs of older adults through innovative programs can access funding through Friends Foundation for the Aging. Grants support senior services, aging and gerontology initiatives, caregiver support, and related programs, with priority for underserved populations, small community-based organizations, and projects that are collaborative, replicable, and grounded in Quaker-aligned values.

Health care leaders focused on aging and senior services in Tennessee and nationwide can receive scholarships covering US $13,995 in fees to join the AHA Next Generation Leaders Fellowship, implementing the Age-Friendly Health Systems 4Ms. The John A Hartford Foundation supports fellows leading system-level change for older adult care, with preference for AHA member organizations.

U.S.-based nonprofits, government entities, and universities working to make aging more affordable through systems-level change can seek Changing Aging support for innovative programs serving marginalized older adults, including in Tennessee. Grants from Next50 Foundation back efforts ending ageism, advancing digital equity, and supporting aging in place through collaborative, multi-year initiatives.

Tennessee organizations serving LGBTQ+ older adults can access funding through Leonard Litz Foundation to strengthen senior services and aging programs. Grants support efforts that reduce isolation, improve quality of life, and expand affirming resources such as social connection, healthcare navigation, housing support, and case management for LGBTQ+ elders within the foundation’s Eastern U.S. footprint.

U.S. 501(c)(3) organizations providing senior services, health care for the sick or aged, or related human services can seek funding, including work connected to Tennessee. Harry Kramer Memorial Fund provides US $10,000 - US $25,000 for programs aiding the sick or aged, Israel-focused welfare efforts, South Florida education, or organizations substantially supported by religious institutions.

501(c)(3) charitable, benevolent, and religious organizations serving needy Christians can apply for the Robert J. Keown Trust’s US $10,000 - US $20,000 grants to support basic human needs, disability care, and senior services. While the trust primarily benefits Los Angeles County, Tennessee programs aiding elderly Christian women or infirm Christians may be eligible.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations providing elder advocacy and care, vision outreach, or related services in Tennessee and other states can apply for grants from the David Kelby Johnson Memorial Foundation. Awards of US $5,000 - US $100,000 primarily support Utah-based work but may also fund senior services and other eligible programs nationally.

The Transition to Aging Research Award for Predoctoral Students, funded by the National Institute on Aging (NIA), invites exceptional graduate students to pursue aging-related postdoctoral training. This two-phase award supports late-stage doctoral candidates in completing dissertation projects across diverse research areas. It aims to facilitate smooth transitions into competitive aging-focused postdoctoral roles, fostering the development of future investigators in aging research. This initiative is designed to enhance collaboration and impactful research in the field of aging.

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 Michigan Health Endowment Fund offers Scholarships for Conferences and Professional Development to support health-related events. These scholarships, up to $2,500 per person and $5,000 per organization, are available for current or past grantees and partners. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with a requirement to submit at least four weeks before the event. Priority is given to organizations that haven't received funding in the previous year, ensuring equitable access to professional development opportunities.

The Alzheimer's Disease Programs Initiative (ADPI) aims to foster the development of dementia-capable community health worker programs within the National Aging Network. This initiative, supported by the US HHS: Administration for Community Living (ACL), seeks to enhance dementia screening, reduce barriers to care, and improve access to essential services for individuals with dementia and their caregivers. By integrating community health workers into aging services, the program aspires to elevate the quality of life for those affected.

The NIA Expanding Research in AD/ADRD Postbaccalaureate Research Education Program aims to enhance the research workforce by providing intensive research experiences for recent graduates. This initiative supports early-stage investigators in Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias, addressing a critical shortage of researchers in the field. Participants engage in independent research, mentorship, and professional development, equipping them with skills necessary for advanced degrees and research careers in aging and dementia. The program fosters innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration essential for advancing AD/ADRD research.

The McKnight Clinical Translational Research Scholarship supports young investigators focusing on cognitive aging and age-related memory loss. Funded by the McKnight Brain Research Foundation, this scholarship offers $65,000 annually for two years, plus an education stipend. Eligible applicants should have completed their PhD or residency within the last five years and conduct their research in accredited U.S. institutions. The award emphasizes rigorous training and aims to foster careers in human cognitive aging research.