Best Workforce Grants in Tennessee

Tennessee 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities can seek project-specific funding for workforce development, sustainability, and community resiliency initiatives. Norfolk Southern Foundation provides U.S. $1,000 - U.S. $50,000 grants to organizations located within 30 minutes of its rail network, which may benefit workforce preparation and job readiness efforts in the state.

Tennessee workforce preparation and job readiness nonprofits can access funding through Regions Bank’s Matching Gifts Program for Recent Retirees, which matches individual retiree donations up to US $1,000. Eligible 501(c) or 170(c) organizations within the Regions footprint may qualify if their primary mission includes education and workforce readiness or related community development priorities.

Tennessee 501(c) and 170(c) organizations focused on education and workforce readiness, financial wellness, or related community programs can benefit from this employee matching-gift funding. Focused on career and financial prosperity, Regions Bank invites eligible nonprofits within its footprint to receive matched donations from full-time associates, helping strengthen local workforce preparation and job readiness efforts.

Nonprofit and community organizations in Tennessee seeking in-kind materials for safety, sustainability, workforce development, or thriving community projects can apply for Norfolk Southern Foundation’s In-Kind Donation Grant. This year-round program provides physical donations, not cash, to support eligible projects within the Norfolk Southern service territory that may strengthen local workforce preparation and job readiness.

Tennessee workforce and housing service providers in Tennessee can access funding through the Tennessee Housing Development Agency to support people experiencing or at risk of homelessness in regaining housing stability. Grants of US $35,000 - US $125,000 can support workforce preparation and job readiness, supportive housing and shelters, health and crisis services, and related wraparound programs.

Nonprofit organizations in Middle Tennessee working on career readiness, literacy, or educator leadership can apply for Scarlett Family Foundation grants to improve students’ long-term workforce success. Eligible groups must align with the foundation’s key education initiatives, operate locally, show at least two years of results, and meet minimum budget requirements in Davidson or Williamson counties.

Tennessee workforce and economic mobility nonprofits serving adults can access funding to build career pathways and strengthen small businesses. Tennessee organizations classified as 501(c)(3) public charities may be eligible for Truist Foundation grants of more than US $15,000 to support job readiness, reskilling, worker protections, and entrepreneurship support for diverse and women-owned small businesses.

Tennessee 501(c)(3) nonprofits advancing workforce preparation, job readiness, and related economic opportunity programs can seek support for work, home, and play initiatives. US Bancorp Foundation’s Community Possible Grant Program prioritizes organizations in designated U.S. Bank communities, especially those led by people of color and addressing multiple pillars like economic advancement, housing, and community arts and culture.

Tennessee 501(c)(3) nonprofits with at least three years of operation and $100,000+ budgets can access funding for workforce preparation, job readiness, and related youth development programs through RBC Foundation – USA. Eligible projects may build in-demand skills, offer internships or apprenticeships, support career and college preparation, or expand access to arts and cultural participation.

Nonprofit organizations building pathways out of poverty through education, job training, or workforce readiness in Tennessee can apply for Arbor Brothers’ multi-year support, with awards of US $125,000 - US $175,000 per year. Eligible 501(c)(3)s or fiscally sponsored groups must be second-stage organizations with budgets between $200,000 and $5,000,000 and at least one full-time staff member.

Focused on workforce preparation and job readiness, Cleveland Cliffs Foundation invites Tennessee 501(c)(3) organizations to apply for funding that builds skills, including STEM skills, and prepares a ready workforce. Eligible projects must operate in communities where the company has operations and can also support education, environmental improvement, and healthy, vibrant communities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations offering workforce development, job readiness, or related community programs in Tennessee can seek US $5,000 - US $30,000 for local projects. Union Pacific Foundation’s Community Ties Giving Program supports initiatives in workforce development, safety, community vitality, and environmental sustainability in communities served by Union Pacific.

Undergraduate students interested in retail careers and brand licensing can receive tuition support and career exposure through the NRF Foundation x Licensing International Scholarship. Grants from NRF Foundation help Tennessee and other U.S. students with a US $5,000 scholarship and trip to New York City for the 2026 NRF Foundation Student Program and recruiter networking.

Tennessee undergraduate students interested in retail careers can access funding through the NRF Foundation Bright Futures Scholarship to attend the 2026 NRF Foundation Student Program in New York City. Need-based awards up to US $1,200 cover free travel and hotel, supporting workforce preparation, job readiness, and business education opportunities in the retail industry.

Current Shawn Carter Foundation scholars interested in legal careers can access a seven-week paid Josh Dubin Fellowship experience that builds workforce preparation and job readiness skills. With a mission to expand higher education opportunities, Shawn Carter Scholarship Fund provides U.S. undergraduates with legal research, case analysis, mentoring, site visits, and added scholarship support, benefiting students in Tennessee and nationwide.

Thalassemia patients pursuing higher education or vocational training in the U.S., including Tennessee, can receive $250 - $2,000 to support tuition and advance their career goals. Grants from Cooley’s Anemia Foundation help students in degree and certificate programs build workforce preparation and job readiness through continued study.

Students who are permanent U.S. residents, diagnosed with eligible forms of thalassemia and enrolled in higher education or vocational programs can receive US $500 - US $1,000 to advance their studies and career preparation. With a mission to support thalassemia patients, Cooley’s Anemia Foundation provides educational awards that may benefit Tennessee residents pursuing workforce readiness and job training goals.

AFL Community Grants aim to empower education, youth, and life advancement through targeted community support. The program is designed for non-profit organizations, focusing on STEM education, youth development, and the LEAP initiative for adult self-sufficiency. With grant applications opening in 2025, AFL Global seeks to make a lasting impact in communities by addressing their greatest needs and fostering growth through education and development initiatives.

The Will Rogers Motion Picture Pioneers Assistance Fund offers crucial financial support and counseling for individuals in the theatrical exhibition and distribution sectors facing health-related challenges. This fund assists with medical expenses, housing emergencies, and essential services like vocational rehabilitation and equipment aid. Eligible applicants must have a minimum of three years in exhibition or five years in distribution. The fund aims to provide a safety net for those impacted by illness, injury, or significant life changes.

Wegmans Family Foundation Inc focuses on cultivating healthy communities through support for hunger relief, health initiatives, education, and youth programs. They prioritize collaborations with local nonprofits to enhance community well-being, offering assistance in key areas like economic mobility and youth engagement. Despite their wide-ranging support, they have specific ineligibility criteria, such as not accommodating personal requests or solicitation on their property, aiming to direct resources effectively where they are needed most.

We support community programs that promote health, education, and human dignity.

The Alfred H. Lander and Janet L. Lander Family Charitable Foundation is a qualified 501(c)(3) private operating foundation that conducts charitable work that meets our mission statement. The Foundation seeks to uplift individuals and families through community programming in the following three areas:

• Programs promoting and supporting the physical and mental health of the community through fitness opportunities and access to services, resources, and qualified care providers.
• Educational programs providing a strong foundation for learning at all ages and levels, including those that improve workforce placement and success.
• Programs assisting individuals and families in meeting basic needs and include a pathway for upward mobility.

The Building Hope: Future Forward Schools Prize & Fellowship Program aims to enhance career exploration for middle and high school students. This initiative, launched by Building Hope in partnership with American Student Assistance, recognizes schools that excel in career-connected learning. Awardees receive funding, mentorship, and resources to empower students from diverse backgrounds, ensuring they develop essential skills for future success. With $50,000 available for five schools, this program fosters innovation and prepares students for a changing economy.

The Municipal Workforce Learning Lab, initiated by the National League of Cities in partnership with the American Institutes for Research, aims to tackle workforce challenges faced by city governments. The program seeks three cities to engage in an 8-month action planning process focused on recruiting, training, and retaining skilled workers. Participants will receive free coaching and technical assistance, helping them enhance their workforce policies and potentially serve as national models for effective local government employment strategies.

About NCRC

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) is a nationwide network of nearly 800 organizations and champions working for a Just Economy, where all Americans can build wealth and provide for their families with stability and dignity.

Our vision: To solve America’s historic racial and socio-economic wealth, income and opportunity divides. This vision is the foundation of the Just Economy Pledge.

Fellowship for Equitable Development

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition matches top-level graduate degree students with premiere community development organizations.

NCRC is looking for fellowship projects that move the needle on housing, small business development, and workforce development. Projects may directly result in community outcomes in these focus areas, or involve work with community members to create plans or project pipelines that will solve local issues in these areas.

The NCRC Fellowship cultivates the next generation of community development leaders and empowers them to tackle the issues of tomorrow. The community development sector will face significant challenges in the coming decades from climate change, widening wealth gaps, food insecurities, extreme housing shortages and other needs. These challenges will disproportionately impact low-wealth communities and communities of color. Therefore, it is NCRC’s intention and pledge to uphold the values of community empowerment in the fellowship program.

Interested students and host organizations must apply for this fellowship opportunity.

Program Benefits for Student Fellows Include:

• High-quality training and support from regional leaders in the nonprofit, government, planning and community development fields
• A $20,000 stipend for the eight-month, part-time (20-hours per week) fellowship
• The opportunity to meet with leaders in the nonprofit, government, planning and community development fields
• Academic credit, in accordance with the policies of the Fellows’ respective universities
• Complimentary admission to the NCRC annual Just Economy Conference

Program Benefits for Host Organizations Include:

• Fresh, innovative talent to help advance organizational mission
• The opportunity to help shape the next generation of community development leaders
• Participation in a fellowship program at little to no cost

The Process

1. NCRC Members Apply; 2. NCRC Selects Member Projects; 3. Students Apply To Selected Projects; 4. Top Student Candidates Interviewed; 5. NCRC & Member Select Student Fellow; 6. NCRC Onboards Member & Student 7. Fellowship Commences

Student Fellow Applications

Fellow applications will open for eligible students once host projects have been reviewed and finalists selected. Students will apply to be considered for a specific host project. Top student candidates will be interviewed by NCRC as well as the host organization.

Fellow Requirements

• Must provide documentation confirming active enrollment (i.e. Letter of Enrollment from Registrar or transcript)
• Must commit to fellowship for full Period of September 14, 2026-May 14, 2027 academic school year
• Must commit to a 20 hour/week fellowship
• Must commit to a schedule with at least one day per week in-office of host organization

About NCRC

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) is a nationwide network of nearly 800 organizations and champions working for a Just Economy, where all Americans can build wealth and provide for their families with stability and dignity.

Our vision: To solve America’s historic racial and socio-economic wealth, income and opportunity divides. This vision is the foundation of the Just Economy Pledge.

Fellowship for Equitable Development

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition matches top-level graduate degree students with premiere community development organizations.

NCRC is looking for fellowship projects that move the needle on housing, small business development, and workforce development. Projects may directly result in community outcomes in these focus areas, or involve work with community members to create plans or project pipelines that will solve local issues in these areas.

The NCRC Fellowship cultivates the next generation of community development leaders and empowers them to tackle the issues of tomorrow. The community development sector will face significant challenges in the coming decades from climate change, widening wealth gaps, food insecurities, extreme housing shortages and other needs. These challenges will disproportionately impact low-wealth communities and communities of color. Therefore, it is NCRC’s intention and pledge to uphold the values of community empowerment in the fellowship program.

Interested students and host organizations must apply for this fellowship opportunity.

Program Benefits for Student Fellows Include:

• High-quality training and support from regional leaders in the nonprofit, government, planning and community development fields
• A $20,000 stipend for the eight-month, part-time (20-hours per week) fellowship
• The opportunity to meet with leaders in the nonprofit, government, planning and community development fields
• Academic credit, in accordance with the policies of the Fellows’ respective universities
• Complimentary admission to the NCRC annual Just Economy Conference

Program Benefits for Host Organizations Include:

• Fresh, innovative talent to help advance organizational mission
• The opportunity to help shape the next generation of community development leaders
• Participation in a fellowship program at little to no cost

The Process

1. NCRC Members Apply; 2. NCRC Selects Member Projects; 3. Students Apply To Selected Projects; 4. Top Student Candidates Interviewed; 5. NCRC & Member Select Student Fellow; 6. NCRC Onboards Member & Student 7. Fellowship Commences

Host Partnerships

Fellowship host partners must be NCRC members. If your organization would like to participate in the Fellowship but is not a member, you can join here and then apply.

Host Requirements

• A compelling project to provide a challenging assignment for fellows with real world application.
• Must commit to a schedule with at least one day per week in office for both fellow and host supervisor.

Future of Work Accelerator

A program of HP Inc. and the HP Foundation

In an increasingly digital world, people without access to technology and the skills to use it are often locked out of economic opportunity. The Accelerator helps scale the impact of organizations that are working to change this.  

Since 2022, the Accelerator has served 35 nonprofit organizations across 13 countries, helping them reach an additional 11.3 million people. 

As a joint program of HP and the HP Foundation, the Accelerator offers selected organizations USD$100,000 in funding, HP technology & solutions (~USD$100,000 value), and a six-month, virtual program designed to strengthen capacity and scale impact.  Exciting changes are ahead for the 5th year of the Accelerator. 

AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP Opportunity

About RSVP

Established in 1971 and now one of the largest senior volunteer programs in the nation, AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP engages people ages 55 and older in a diverse range of volunteer activities. AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP volunteers tutor children, help prepare simple taxes, assist victims of natural disasters, provide nutrition/food support, facilitate opioid and substance abuse education workshops, and serve in their communities in many other ways. AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP volunteers choose how, where, and how often they want to serve, with commitments ranging from a few hours to a maximum of 40 hours per week. While serving, AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP volunteers improve their own lives by staying active and civically engaged. 

Funding Priorities

AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP programming is designed to meet community needs. Applicants may propose activities intended to address community needs by thoroughly explaining the unmet need and activities to be completed by volunteers to address that need. In addition, AmeriCorps is interested in programming that addresses agency priorities. AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP priorities for this funding opportunity are:

• Supporting Older Adults and Caregivers: Provide respite, support groups, system navigation, care coordination, and resources for older adults, including custodial grandparents, and caregivers.
• Helping Older Adults Re-enter the Workforce: Offer job readiness, mentoring, training, and remove barriers to employment for older adults (volunteers provide services, not seek jobs).
• Building Strong Families: Support parents in helping children succeed, mentor parents, connect families to resources, and strengthen community partnerships.
• Preventing and Mitigating Fraud and Scams: Use digital navigators and other strategies to protect older adults from financial fraud and exploitation, including emerging AI-driven scams.
• Reducing Homelessness: Develop or renovate affordable housing, assist people experiencing homelessness in finding and maintaining permanent housing, and address housing needs for vulnerable populations.
• Supporting Behavioral Health Initiatives: Improve mental health, reduce isolation, prevent substance use, provide harm reduction tools (Naloxone, fentanyl test strips), peer support, and recovery services.

Award Funding Requirements

Applicants must construct the budget in the following manner. The federal share of the budget must not exceed $75,000 plus up to $350 for every unduplicated volunteer, whether or not they serve in an outcome-based work plan.