Best Recreation Grants for Nonprofits in Tennessee

Local governments and nonprofit organizations in Tennessee can access funding to build free, public BlueCross Healthy Places, including playgrounds, sports courts, walking paths, and other recreation amenities. Grants from BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Community Trust help create community spaces that promote healthy activity, accessibility, and resident engagement on land owned by the applicant.

Nonprofit organizations and government entities in Tennessee offering shooting sports, hunting safety, or firearms education programs can apply for The NRA Foundation’s grants, awarding US $3,000 - US $5,000 for 501(c)(3) purposes. Recreation and outdoor recreation groups may be eligible if their projects promote safety, education, or marksmanship in the shooting sports.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations offering recreation, outdoor activities, or community vitality programs in Tennessee communities served by Union Pacific can seek US $5,000 - US $30,000 for project-based support. Union Pacific Foundation supports safety, outdoor recreation, youth development, environmental sustainability, and related community services rather than general operating expenses.

Nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), or 501(c)(19) status in Tennessee and other Republic Bank service areas can seek funding for recreation, education, youth, health, and community welfare programs. Grants from Republic Bank Foundation support projects serving broad constituencies, and may benefit Tennessee nonprofits offering recreation or outdoor recreation activities within eligible communities.

Tennessee 501(c)(3) organizations promoting safe sports, outdoor recreation, or first responder programs can access funding through Academy Sports + Outdoors for events and initiatives serving collective groups. Eligible projects must occur in Tennessee counties where Academy stores operate, and proposals should be submitted at least 90 days before the event for consideration.

The Clif Family Foundation Open Call invites 501(c)(3) organizations to apply for grants supporting general operating costs or specific projects. With a focus on regenerative farming, food worker health, climate justice, and food access, the foundation aims to empower grassroots initiatives. Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000, with applications reviewed twice a year. Deadlines are March 1 and August 1, and announcements occur about four months post-deadline.

The Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative supports outdoor enthusiasts and promotes responsible use of off-highway vehicles (OHVs). Its mission includes educating the public on land use and wildlife conservation while protecting access to public lands. Applications are accepted quarterly from nonprofit organizations and community groups focused on land stewardship and access improvements, ensuring a safe and sustainable outdoor experience for all.

The Von Voigtlander Family Foundation Grant, though currently closed, aims to support 501(c)(3) charitable organizations, primarily in Michigan. The foundation emphasizes animal welfare, parks preservation, veteran support, and youth empowerment. Their mission is to enhance lives through community-focused initiatives that foster resilience, education, and well-being. They prioritize charities that promote responsible pet ownership, outdoor recreation, and provide resources for veterans and youth, ensuring a positive impact across multiple sectors.

Individuals and small teams from underrepresented climbing communities in Tennessee can apply for the American Alpine Club’s Catalyst Grant, awarding US $250 - US $2,000 for U.S.-based climbing objectives. Eligible applicants are U.S. citizens or green card holders planning outdoor recreation or climbing projects that demonstrate skill progression and community engagement.

Cell Signaling Technology’s Environmental Grants support initiatives aimed at ecosystem protection, wildlife research, and environmental education. Priority is given to action-oriented projects with at least 70% of funding allocated to those directly impacting the environment. Applications are accepted annually until May 1st, with a focus on organizations in Massachusetts, particularly the North Shore of Boston. Non-profit status is required, and discriminatory projects will not be funded.

The RMEF Grant Program lies at the core of advancing our mission.

RMEF established the program in 1986 to provide financial and logistical support to projects that align with our priorities and goals. Grant funds raised by RMEF members, volunteers and generous donors from across the country translate into significantly more conservation accomplishment when matched with partner funds. The RMEF Grant Program also aims to build recognition for RMEF’s work, grow engagement, and boost local fundraising efforts.

Governed by clear guidelines and criteria, the RMEF Grant Program seeks to foster meaningful collaborations and long-term impacts in the conservation of natural resources and outdoor traditions. Grant project partners include federal, state, local, and tribal wildlife and land management agencies, private landowners and local stakeholders, sportsmen and women, and conservation organizations, universities, foundations and the outdoor industry. Eligible projects primarily focus on habitat stewardship, land conservation and access, wildlife management, and hunting heritage.

We support organizations recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as a 501(c)3 entity, federal, state, local, or tribal government entities, sportsmen’s organizations, or educational institutions. All applicants must have a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) issued by the IRS. RMEF does not offer grants to individuals.

Hunting Heritage

Ensuring our hunting heritage is central to RMEF’s mission. Hunters—America’s first conservationists—remain the driving force behind wildlife conservation. RMEF funds hunting heritage and conservation education to help more people experience the outdoors, learn the skills of hunting, and carry forward the traditions that define big game country, including outdoor skills programs/events, hunter or conservation outreach, mentored hunts, and other similar activities.

Municipalities, public institutions, and qualified nonprofits in Tennessee can seek funding for outdoor recreation and conservation projects, including youth programs and community events. Bass Pro Shops & Cabelas Outdoor Fund supports initiatives near its retail locations that conserve wildlife and habitat or connect new audiences to the outdoors, with awards up to US $5,000.

Municipal entities and nonprofit facilities in Tennessee with existing splash pads can receive in-kind safety surfacing for outdoor recreation areas through the Make a SPLASH! Need-Based Award, valued at US $50,000 - US $65,000. MNY Group supports U.S. communities by providing Life Floor tiles and installation to financially constrained sites meeting specific income and budget criteria.

Municipal entities, JCCs, YMCAs, and other nonprofits in Tennessee with existing splash pads can apply for MNY Group’s Make a SPLASH! Inclusive Design Award, offering US $50,000 - US $65,000 in in-kind safety surfacing. Recreation and outdoor recreation facilities demonstrating strong inclusivity or accessibility commitments may receive all-expenses-paid Life Floor tiles and installation.

L.L.Bean Charitable Donations supports outdoor initiatives that bring communities together. The program encourages partnerships with inspiring individuals and organizations. To apply, ensure requests are made at least eight weeks before the event. Please note that the program does not fund individuals, advertising, specific schools, or projects outside the U.S. For more information, visit their website to learn how to get involved.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations partnering with public land agencies can receive up to US $10,000 to run nature-based recreation programs that support veterans’ physical and mental health, including in Tennessee. Grants from the National Environmental Education Foundation fund services, materials, administrative costs, and billed labor for projects on federal, state, local, or nonprofit public lands.

Nonprofit 501(c) organizations, municipalities, and public institutions in Tennessee hosting fundraising or giveaway events can receive up to US $2,500 in in-kind merchandise or gift cards to support outdoor recreation and conservation efforts. Grants from Bass Pro Shops & Cabelas Outdoor Fund prioritize wildlife and habitat conservation, outdoor access, and military and veterans-focused programs near their retail stores.

Nonprofits, university researchers, and conservation-focused groups in Tennessee working on outdoor recreation, habitat restoration, or ecosystem conservation can apply for SITKA Ecosystem Grants, awarding US $3,000 - US $20,000 for high-impact projects. Administered by W.L. Gore & Associates, this invitation-only program begins with a brief inquiry before full proposal submission.

Tennessee nonprofits and local governments developing or improving parks and outdoor recreation areas can access funding through the National Park Service’s Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program. This competitive program, part of the Land and Water Conservation Fund, offers US $300,000 - US $15,000,000 for acquisition, development, or renovation of outdoor recreation spaces in urban, underserved communities.

Outdoor and conservation-focused organizations in Tennessee can seek funding to expand technical assistance, outreach, and education that support land stewardship and outdoor recreation. Focused on conservation and environmental justice, the National Association of Conservation Districts invites conservation districts, their associations, RC&D Councils, and Tribal organizations to hire staff who help producers and communities implement sustainable, recreation-supportive practices; awards Approximately US $18,000,000 nationwide.

With a mission to support charitable athletics and community programs, the Ironman Foundation provides Tennessee recreation nonprofits and other charitable organizations with funding for youth sports, wellness, and community-focused initiatives in select IRONMAN race communities. Eligible 501(c)(3)s and similar charitable entities in Davidson County may be especially suited for projects with measurable impact and local need.

Tennessee nonprofits and public entities planning large-scale outdoor recreation or park projects may be eligible for national Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership funding that supports acquisition or development of facilities in underserved communities. Tennessee recreation organizations can access funding through Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, which administers this federal Land and Water Conservation Fund program, offering US $300,000 - US $15,000,000 with up to 50% matching.

The Mazamas is committed to exploring and preserving mountain environments in the Pacific Northwest through research grants. These grants support nonprofit research that aligns with the Mazamas’ mission, encouraging proposals from graduate and undergraduate students. Successful applicants often conduct field studies that enhance understanding of the region's natural features. Notably, the Mazamas also welcome innovative research ideas that may fall outside traditional grant guidelines, promoting a diverse range of scientific inquiry.

The National Forest Foundation's Matching Awards Program connects communities to forests by funding stewardship activities that promote engagement with National Forests and nearby public lands. This program aims to create lasting impacts, ensuring that all communities can benefit from the rich resources of these natural areas. By supporting various projects, the program fosters a deeper relationship between people and the environment, ultimately enhancing conservation efforts and community well-being.

The Conservation Alliance Grants program is currently under evaluation, leading to a pause in the member-directed grant cycle as the organization aligns its funding with its strategic plan launching in 2025. This initiative aims to harness the collective efforts of businesses and outdoor communities to protect North America's wild places through impactful and efficient grant-making. Future funding will focus on projects that enhance habitat, support Indigenous initiatives, and address climate change.

The AAD Shade Structure Grant Program provides funding up to $8,000 for non-profit organizations and public schools to install shade structures, promoting sun safety for children and teenagers. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to sun safety, including a year-long awareness program, and submit a letter of recommendation from an AAD dermatologist. The program aims to enhance outdoor safety, supported by donations from members and organizations.

2026 Veterans and Nature Grant

Supporting the health, well-being, and community connection of America's veterans

The National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) is pleased to announce grant funding supported by the American Medical Association (AMA) to expand access to nature-based experiences that support the health, well-being, and community connection of America's veterans. AMA has partnered with NEEF to bring an evidence-based health perspective to this effort, underscoring the growing body of research linking time in nature to improved physical and mental health outcomes.

Background

A Pew Research Center survey found that roughly one in four veterans say the transition back to civilian life was at least somewhat difficult. This is especially true for those who return home with stress or trauma. The National Alliance on Mental Illness estimates 11-20% of veterans are believed to experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) each year.

Nature offers profound restorative benefits for veterans navigating the challenges of post-service life. Time spent outdoors — whether hiking, fishing, camping, or simply sitting among trees — has been shown by numerous studies to reduce symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression, conditions that affect veterans at disproportionately high rates.

Quieting hypervigilance, allowing space for reflection, fostering camaraderie, and reducing isolation are all mental and physical benefits that be found through outdoor recreation. Using America’s public lands to do so provides a powerful and accessible path forward.

Overview

Through the 2026 Veterans and Nature grant, NEEF aims to expand access to nature-based experiences that support veteran health, well-being, and community connection by

• Providing opportunities for outdoor activities on public land that improve the physical and mental health of veterans
• Increasing veterans’ understanding of the physical and mental health benefits of time in nature

The grant will provide up to $10,000 per grantee for projects on federal, state, local, or nonprofit public lands that address physical and mental health in veteran communities.

Examples of project types include outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, climbing, or fishing; wellness activities, such as forest bathing or meditation; environmental education, such as community science; adaptive programming; and conservation volunteering. Projects are not limited to those listed here.