Best Nashville Grants for Nonprofits in Tennessee

The PLTW Engineering program, supported by the Caterpillar Foundation, aims to enhance access to STEM education in underserved communities. This initiative focuses on expanding existing PLTW Engineering programs by introducing new courses, additional class periods, and teacher training for the 2025-2026 academic year. Preference is given to schools with a high-need student population, ensuring that those eligible for free or reduced lunch programs are prioritized for funding. This partnership fosters workforce readiness and empowers future innovators.

The First Generation College Opportunity Fund, established by a generous donor, aims to support first-generation college students in the Nashville area. Managed by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, this fund provides scholarships to students with a minimum 3.0 GPA attending public or private high schools in the region. It empowers young individuals to pursue higher education, fostering a more inclusive and thriving community for generations to come.

The H. Franklin Brooks Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, offers renewable scholarships to graduating high school seniors from Middle Tennessee. This fund particularly supports self-identified LGBTQ+ students, especially those whose families have ceased financial support for their education. With over 30 years of community impact, CFMT aims to foster a thriving, inclusive environment through collective philanthropy.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving older adults in Nashville and surrounding Middle Tennessee counties can apply for West End Home Foundation’s funding to support aging-related programs and capital projects. Grants back direct services, collaborative initiatives, and advocacy that help adults age 60 and older live with dignity, purpose, and connection in Cheatham, Davidson, Robertson, Rutherford, Sumner, Williamson, and Wilson counties.

The JoAhn Brown Nash Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, honors the legacy of JoAhn Brown-Nash, who dedicated her life to education and empowering youth. This scholarship supports female students at Fisk University entering their junior year, who demonstrate exceptional leadership and maintain a GPA of 3.2 or higher. Through this initiative, we aim to foster the development of future leaders and contribute to a more inclusive community.

• Access to Quality Health Care Services (e.g., physical & mental health; substance abuse; wellness programs)
• Human & Social Services (e.g., families & children; immigrants & refugees; domestic violence & sexual abuse survivors; veterans; people experiencing homelessness; people in crisis)
• Education
• Youth and Childhood Development
• Senior Citizen Enrichment Services
• Community Services

The Phoenix Club of Nashville Grant supports nonprofits making a positive impact on the lives of children in Middle Tennessee. Founded in 2001, the Phoenix Club has a legacy of fundraising for local charities, having raised millions for various causes. To apply, interested organizations can complete an initial request questionnaire available on their website. This opportunity allows nonprofits to connect with a network of leaders dedicated to community service and enhancement.

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

Nashville, Tennessee 501(c)(3) public charities addressing education, housing, food insecurity, or workforce development can apply for Embraer Foundation’s (e)NVEST Community Grants. Focused on critical community needs, this program offers general operating and competitive awards up to US $25,000 for projects aligned with select UN Sustainable Development Goals in communities near Embraer facilities.

The Louie M. & Betty M. Phillips Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations in Nashville, offering funding primarily for general operating support and project-specific grants. With a history of over $13 million in donations since 1978, the foundation prioritizes organizations with a strong community impact, especially those with established ties to the founders. Grant amounts typically range from $2,500 to $5,000, with proposals accepted year-round, evaluated at semi-annual meetings in June and November.

The Nashville Predators Foundation, empowered by SmileDirectClub, provides annual Helper Grants to support local charities in Nashville and Middle Tennessee. With grants ranging from $500 to $10,000, the foundation focuses on projects benefiting youth and families. In 2022, it distributed over $800,000 to 172 organizations. The program prioritizes those with detailed expense lists and organizations with budgets under $2 million, fostering community engagement and support for impactful initiatives.

501(c)(3) nonprofits offering arts, education, or youth enrichment programs in Nashville, Tennessee can apply for Ryman Hospitality Properties Foundation funding to benefit local communities. Grants support arts and cultural education, K–12 and higher education, historic preservation, and opportunities for disadvantaged youth, with a focus on organizations near the foundation’s Davidson County holdings.

The Cumberland Plateau Stewardship Fund Grant aims to restore native forests and improve wildlife habitats while supporting working forests in the Cumberland Plateau. The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) invites proposals that enhance forest, grassland, and freshwater ecosystems, promoting conservation practices on agricultural lands. This initiative is backed by funding from USDA agencies and corporate partners, focusing on improving soil health, water quality, and carbon sequestration in the region.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) public charities in Nashville, Tennessee can seek funding for arts and culture, social services, education, environmental conservation, and responsible alcohol use initiatives. With a mission to enrich community life, Brown-Forman Foundation provides operating, program, and event sponsorship support, prioritizing organizations in Louisville while also considering projects in Davidson County, Tennessee.

The Rachel Allison Cate Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, honors Rachel Cate's passion for education. This scholarship supports Metro Nashville Public School seniors pursuing a career in education, requiring a minimum 3.0 GPA and a 21 ACT score. Rachel's legacy lives on, empowering future educators to make a positive impact in their communities. This fund aims to inspire students to follow their dreams and continue Rachel's love for teaching and nurturing children.

The PRSA Nashville Scholarship Fund, established by the Nashville Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America, aims to support full-time public relations students entering their junior or senior year. This scholarship recognizes academic excellence and encourages professional development. Eligible students must be enrolled in an institution affiliated with PRSA Nashville, with schools including Belmont University and Middle Tennessee State University. The fund exemplifies a commitment to nurturing the next generation of PR practitioners.

The Nashville Academy of Medicine Alliance Scholarship Fund for Nursing, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, supports nursing students in their final year at select universities. It honors the legacy of the Nashville Academy of Medicine Alliance, which significantly contributed to public health from 1927 to 2014. This scholarship aims to foster new generations of healthcare professionals committed to improving community health and well-being.

Publix Cares Scholarship

Publix Cares Scholarship was established by Publix Super Markets, Inc., a Florida corporation, in partnership with UNCF to provide scholarships to eligible students attending at one of the following selected institutions.

College/Universities

• Bethune Cookman University
• Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
• University of Central Florida
• Benedict College
• Clark Atlanta University
• Savannah State University
• Morehouse College
• Spelman College
• Virginia State University

Tennessee State UniversitySelected student will receive up to $2,000 need-based scholarship in the fall 2026.

The John and Belinda Havron Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, supports students from the 40 counties of Middle Tennessee with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. This scholarship aims to alleviate financial barriers for students pursuing post-secondary education, reflecting John and Belinda's commitment to fostering educational opportunities. Their legacy emphasizes the importance of community support and encourages scholarship recipients to 'pay it forward' in their own journeys.

About OTA

Mission 

Empower the orthopaedic trauma community to provide the highest quality patient care through education, research, and advocacy.

Vision 

Global excellence in the care of orthopaedic trauma patients.

OTA Annual Meeting Military Scholarship

The 2026 OTA Annual Meeting Military Scholarship will provide funding for Active-Duty Military Orthopaedic Surgeons in the form of Annual Meeting registration coverage as well as travel and lodging assistance in the amount of $1,500 for up to 10 individuals. All others will be provided with OTA Annual Meeting registration coverage.

The J. Barrett Melton Family Memorial Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, offers renewable scholarships for students in middle Tennessee. Applicants must have a minimum ACT score of 21 and a GPA of 3.0. Preference is given to students from Cannon County. This initiative aims to support local students in achieving their academic goals, fostering a thriving community through education.

The Ed and Charlie B. Temple Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, honors the legacy of Coach Ed Temple, a renowned figure in women's track coaching. The scholarship supports students from Fisk University and American Baptist College, institutions attended by civil rights leader Rep. John Lewis. This initiative aims to empower the next generation through education, reflecting Temple's commitment to both athletic excellence and academic achievement.

The Donald and Frances McDonald Endowed Scholarship Fund, administered by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, supports students majoring in engineering technology or aerospace at Middle Tennessee State University. Eligible applicants must maintain a 3.0 GPA, demonstrate financial need, and be enrolled full-time. This renewable scholarship aims to foster academic success and career development in vital engineering fields, contributing to the growth and inclusivity of the local community.

Public and charter schools launching new PLTW Engineering programs in Nashville, Tennessee can apply for Project Lead The Way’s Caterpillar Foundation-supported grants, awarding US $30,000 over two years. Funding covers PLTW participation fees, required technology, equipment, supplies, and core training with related travel, room, and board, with preference for schools serving high-need students.

The Teddy Wilburn Scholarship Fund, established by country music star Teddy Wilburn, aims to provide financial assistance to students at Tennessee State University and Vanderbilt University. This scholarship supports those who have demonstrated a commitment to their education, requiring a minimum B average in the last two years of high school. By promoting access to higher education, it reflects Wilburn's dedication to helping others achieve their academic aspirations, despite his own lack of a college experience.

The Technology Scholarship Fund, established by the Nashville Technology Council, supports high school seniors from Nashville who are pursuing two or four-year degrees in technology-related fields. This initiative aims to foster innovation and provide essential resources to empower future leaders in the technology sector. With a mission to build a thriving and inclusive community, the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee champions educational opportunities that drive positive change and enhance the local tech landscape.

The Tapping Individual Potential program, led by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, supports talented Metro Nashville public school students in grades five to eight. It provides personalized enrichment opportunities to help these students explore their unique skills, overcoming financial barriers. By connecting students with tailored programs, such as art classes and advanced science courses, the initiative fosters individual growth and nurtures future potential, ensuring a thriving and inclusive community.