Best Nashville Grants for Nonprofits in Tennessee

The Nashville Bar Association

The Nashville Bar Association, established in 1831, is a professional organization serving the legal community of Nashville, Tennessee. The NBA—with over 2,500 members—is the largest metropolitan bar association in Tennessee.

NBA Mission: Advancing the legal profession and promoting justice by connecting, serving, and educating our members and the public. 

The David Rutherford Award

The Nashville Bar Foundation (NBF) is currently requesting nominations for the David Rutherford Award. This award will be given to a Fellow of the NBF who exemplifies the memory and ideals of David Rutherford, which include professionalism, charitable contributions in the legal field and in the community as a whole, and the spirit of collegiality among the bench and bar.

The Award shall be given at the Annual Fellows Dinner.

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.

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 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.

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 Union Home Foundation Grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations that promote economic self-sufficiency through financial literacy and housing initiatives. Established in 2015, this grant has awarded over $2 million to various nonprofits across the U.S. Grants typically start at $1,000 and are available for a one-year period. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and can only apply once per year, following specific eligibility criteria.

The Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation offers competitive grants for municipalities to establish Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facilities (HHWCF). Eligible applicants include municipalities with populations over 100,000 and those meeting specific criteria under T.C.A. §68-211-828. Grants support the creation of permanent collection sites and temporary infrastructures. Eligible projects encompass safety equipment, signage, and operational reimbursements. Ineligible applicants include those with outstanding balances on previous grants. This initiative aligns with the state's solid waste management goals.

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 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.

Care professionals in Nashville, Tennessee pursuing education in a care-related field can receive US $500 - US $2,000 for tuition through scholarships paid directly to federally accredited institutions. Grants from Jean Griswold Foundation help caregivers further their training, enhance their skills, and advance their careers while improving support for those they serve.

The Bishop Joseph and Stephaine Walker Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, supports African-American students from the region who have a GPA of 2.5 or higher and a demonstrated history of community service. Annually, two to five scholarships are awarded to eligible graduate students pursuing advanced degrees, helping to foster educational advancement and community engagement in Middle Tennessee.

The First Cumberland Properties Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, supports residents of subsidized housing in Davidson County. Eligible applicants must have a high school diploma or GED, maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA, and plan to attend an accredited college, university, or technical school. This fund aims to enhance educational opportunities and promote upward mobility, contributing to the foundation's mission of fostering a thriving and inclusive community.

The Edna L. Martin Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, honors the legacy of a dedicated English teacher who impacted many lives. This fund provides scholarships to academically deserving and financially needy students from Davidson County pursuing teaching careers. With over 30 years of community engagement, the foundation aims to foster a thriving, inclusive society by connecting donors with those in need, ensuring that the spirit of generosity continues to benefit future generations.

The Drue Smith/Society of Professional Journalists’ Scholarship Fund, established in memory of pioneering journalist Drue Smith, supports college juniors, seniors, and graduate students from Middle Tennessee pursuing careers in journalism or broadcast news. This fund honors Drue's legacy as the first woman president of the Society of Professional Journalists in Tennessee, promoting professional development for aspiring journalists and fostering the next generation of media professionals in a rapidly changing landscape.

The Dr. K. B. (Krish) Deshpande and Vidya K. Deshpande Family Scholarship Fund, established by the Deshpande family, honors a legacy of educational commitment. This fund supports juniors, seniors, and graduate students at Fisk University or other Tennessee HBCUs pursuing science degrees. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, write an essay on the role of science education, maintain a 3.0 GPA, and engage in community service, ensuring opportunities for marginalized communities.

The Dennis Greeno & Joan Signorille Scholarship Fund aims to support Davidson and Sumner County students who demonstrate academic merit and financial need. Established by individuals who benefited from higher education, this fund reflects a commitment to ensuring that deserving students are not hindered by financial constraints. Scholarships awarded will help alleviate the burden of tuition, allowing students to focus on their studies and future careers. This initiative promotes educational access and equity in the community.

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 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.

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 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 Blakeford Scholarship Fund, established by the Residents of Blakeford, aims to honor the dedication of team members at Blakeford, Inc. It provides financial assistance for training and education to both part-time and full-time employees and their legal dependents. This initiative reflects the commitment of the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee to foster a thriving and inclusive community by empowering individuals through education and professional development.

Nashville-area 501(c)(3) nonprofits focused on higher education, economic and community development, or human services can access funding through Steel Dynamics Foundation for programs that improve quality of life and local economies. Eligible organizations must serve communities near Steel Dynamics facilities, with priority for those also supported by local facility staff and resources.

The Frist Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing the quality of life in Nashville and Middle Tennessee by funding nonprofit organizations. With over 40 years of commitment, it prioritizes projects addressing community challenges in areas such as Arts, Food Insecurity, Health Disparities, and support for underserved residents. The Foundation seeks to empower organizations through General, Technology, and Operational Grants, emphasizing sustainability and long-term impact without funding operational expenses or salaries.

The B’nai B’rith Maimonides Lodge #46 Scholarship supports legally blind students pursuing post-secondary education. Established by the oldest Jewish service organization in Nashville, this scholarship honors 38 years of community service through a summer camp for visually-impaired children. The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee administers the fund, ensuring assistance reaches those in need while fostering an inclusive community. Eligible applicants must provide documentation of their legal blindness to apply.

The Brandon Key Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, honors a young man dedicated to community service and civil rights. This scholarship supports Middle Tennessee students with a minimum GPA of 2.5, who demonstrate a commitment to serving their community and plan to attend an accredited college. Preference is given to applicants from low socioeconomic backgrounds aiming for Historically Black Colleges or Universities, promoting inclusivity and opportunity for future generations.

Nonprofit organizations in Nashville, Tennessee working in education, arts and culture, health, human services, or civic affairs may be eligible for funding that supports community-focused programs and services. A O Smith Foundation supports these efforts in communities where it has facilities, with applications accepted year-round and reviewed in the order received.

The PNC Foundation's Grow Up Great Grant is a significant initiative aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for children from birth to age 5. With a commitment of $500 million, this program focuses on improving school readiness through support in vocabulary development, social-emotional learning, and the arts. By partnering with community-based nonprofits, PNC aims to foster stronger, smarter, and healthier communities, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.