Best Nashville Grants for Nonprofits in Tennessee

The Retail Food Safety Regulatory Association Collaboration program supports state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) food safety initiatives to mitigate food-borne illness risks. Funded by the FDA, this initiative aids SLTT agencies in research and intervention implementation, aiming to enhance public health and establish a cohesive national food safety framework. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations connected to higher education institutions, focusing on retail food safety.

The Equus Veterinary Research Fellowship, established by the Equus Foundation and The Foundation For The Horse, offers a $5,000 scholarship and a $500 travel stipend to support equine research. Open to graduates of AVMA-accredited veterinary schools nearing residency or doctoral completion, this fellowship encourages innovative research in horse health care. Applications are accepted from mid-July to August, promoting the advancement of equine veterinary practices and the training of future researchers.

The Frankenmuth Insurance Foundation Charitable Grant supports qualified charities focused on community betterment and basic human needs. Founded in 2016, it aims to enhance lives through initiatives such as affordable housing, health programs, and the arts. Organizations eligible for funding must be tax-exempt and serve areas where Frankenmuth Insurance operates. Notably, the foundation excludes support for individuals, political groups, and projects typically financed by governments, ensuring its resources benefit the wider community.

The National Dance Project (NDP) Travel Fund offers financial support to U.S.-based presenters, curatorial staff, and residency directors, as well as current NDP artist grantees. This fund facilitates in-person engagements to assess the feasibility of presenting NDP-funded projects. Established over 30 years ago, NDP has invested more than $38.5 million in dance initiatives, promoting the creation and touring of new works while fostering relationships within the arts community.

The Union Plus Scholarship, offered by the Union Plus Education Foundation, supports students from working families pursuing post-secondary education. Since its inception in 1991, over $5.6 million has been awarded to more than 4,000 beneficiaries. Scholarships range between $500 and $4,000 for studies starting in Fall 2025. Applicants must be current or retired union members, their spouses, or dependent children, ensuring access to higher education for diverse families across the U.S. and Canada.

The Paul - Olga Paul Scholarship honors Olga R. Paul, a dedicated English teacher at Bishop High School for over 30 years. This scholarship supports students with a Bishop mailing address who are pursuing a teaching degree, maintaining a GPA of 2.0 or higher, and attending college full-time. Financial need and academic achievement are considered in the selection process, with preference given to future educators. The scholarship amount varies.

The Pagan Scholarship honors Jack and Shirley Pagan by supporting students in their pursuit of post-secondary education. Managed by the Coastal Bend Community Foundation, this scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities in the Coastal Bend region. Eligible applicants include high school seniors and current college students from Nueces or San Patricio County, Texas, who demonstrate a minimum GPA of 2.5 and a commitment to automotive, veterinary, or business fields.

The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) is inviting innovative research applications on the causal relationships between human behaviors and oral-systemic health impacts, particularly for people with chronic conditions. This funding opportunity encourages the exploration of biological, environmental, and psychosocial factors contributing to health outcomes. Projects should aim for translation into clinical trials to manage dental and craniofacial conditions effectively. Collaboration among diverse health experts is strongly encouraged.

The grant program by Pfizer, Inc. aims to enhance the knowledge of Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) in the field of biomarker and genetic testing for cancer. By providing educational resources and programs, this initiative seeks to empower APPs to make informed treatment decisions in oncology, ultimately improving patient outcomes. This program encourages applications that address the specific educational needs of APPs, particularly in using biomarkers for targeted therapies.

Mildred's Dream Foundation Grant provides vital support to community-based non-profit organizations focused on Education, Domestic Violence, and Physical or Mental Health Challenges. With grants up to $25,000, the foundation aims to honor Mildred's commitment to improving lives and creating a better world. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) non-profits providing direct services in these areas. Notably, the foundation excludes funding for certain institutions, ensuring resources are directed to those genuinely in need.

The Tower Family Foundation Scholarship offers merit-based financial assistance to employees and dependents of NATE Member Companies, including those affected by severe injuries or disabilities. Valued up to $5,000 annually for full-time students, this scholarship supports tuition and related expenses. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of 2.5 and can renew their scholarships for up to four years. Applications are evaluated based on academic achievement and written essays.

The Burney - Cecil E. Burney Scholarship, established in memory of Cecil E. Burney, aims to enhance the quality of life in the Coastal Bend by supporting students who have graduated from high schools in the CBCF seven-county area. Eligible applicants must be graduating seniors or current college students maintaining a GPA of 3.0, and they must be enrolled full-time at an accredited college or university in the United States.

The Laine - Casey Laine Armed Services Scholarship, established to honor Lieutenant Casey Laine Swakon, supports students from the Coastal Bend area who have participated in JROTC or are part of ROTC programs. Eligible candidates include high school seniors, current college students, and veterans. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and complete at least 12 credit hours per semester, ensuring they are well-prepared for their academic pursuits.

The CFMT William N. Rollins Fund for the Arts, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, aims to enhance the local arts scene. This fund supports visual arts, arts education, and art therapy programs, providing grants up to $15,000 for eligible 501(c)(3) public charities and government entities. Through collective philanthropy, it strives to foster a thriving and inclusive community while honoring the legacy of Bill Rollins, a passionate artist.

The Women’s Fund, part of the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, is dedicated to empowering women and girls by funding long-term solutions that enhance economic self-sufficiency, promote health, and prevent violence. With a commitment to collective philanthropy, the Fund prioritizes support for organizations with budgets under $3 million and a focus on women's issues. Grants can reach up to $20,000 for established organizations and $5,000 for newer ones, ensuring impactful contributions to the community.

The CFMT Sports Fund, part of the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, aims to promote teamwork and community engagement among children. By providing grants up to $5,000, it supports 501(c)(3) organizations that foster a sense of belonging and hope through team-based activities, particularly during critical afterschool hours. This initiative not only keeps youth engaged but also addresses pressing community challenges, driving positive change for a thriving and inclusive future.

The CFMT Ernest and Selma Rosenblum Fund for the Performing Arts, established by Dr. Marvin J. Rosenblum in honor of his parents, supports the performing arts in Middle Tennessee. With a mission to foster a thriving and inclusive community, the fund encourages grant requests for program support, enabling nonprofits to access up to $15,000. This initiative aims to enhance exposure and education in the arts, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the region.

The CFMT Animal Welfare Grant Program, managed by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, aims to enhance animal welfare across the region. With a focus on spay/neuter services, retention programs for low-income pet owners, and educational initiatives on humane treatment, the program supports 501(c)(3) organizations dedicated to animal care. Grants up to $15,000 are available to foster community efforts that ensure the safety and health of animals, making a lasting impact on the lives of pets and their owners.

The SABIC Innovative Plastics Scholarship supports the children of employees at the Mt. Vernon, Indiana facility, providing financial aid for post-secondary education. Eligible students include graduating seniors from any U.S. high school who are dependents of active employees. Selection is based on academic performance, leadership, and community involvement. Applicants must also submit an essay detailing their goals and achievements, along with an official grade transcript. This scholarship fosters educational advancement for employee families.

The Jalufka - Patricia Jalufka Endowed Scholarship, offered by the Coastal Bend Community Foundation, aims to enhance educational opportunities for high school and college students from the Coastal Bend. This scholarship targets those majoring in Education, particularly in teaching reading or diagnosing reading disabilities, providing support to foster academic excellence and community development.

The Nationwide Fishing Trap Removal, Assessment, and Prevention (TRAP) Program aims to eliminate derelict fishing traps nationwide. Focused on collaboration, it emphasizes standardized data collection, quantifying impacts, and comprehensive data sharing. With an annual budget of up to $1,475,000, the program supports 6 to 15 projects, providing grants ranging from $50,000 to $200,000 for 18-month initiatives. This effort significantly enhances marine resource conservation by reducing bycatch mortality and removing abandoned traps.

This NOFO invites applications for innovative research aimed at developing and implementing interventions to prevent and treat substance use disorders (SUDs) and overdose. It encourages studies that can rapidly advance candidate solutions towards regulatory approval or clinical use, while also addressing co-morbid SUDs. The initiative supports a wide range of research including basic, clinical, translational, and implementation strategies to tackle drug misuse and related health issues, such as HIV/AIDS.

The John Edelman Scholarship supports student veterans pursuing careers in mental health counseling, offering five scholarships of $10,000 each. This initiative, funded by Student Veterans of America, emphasizes the importance of mental health support for veterans. Eligible candidates must be enrolled as full-time students in the 2025-2026 academic year and maintain strong academic performance. The scholarship aims to reward exceptional achievement and encourage further study in disciplines that promote mental well-being.

The Madelyn L. Laschober Endowment Fund, established by the Partners of the Americas Foundation, supports projects focused on youth, education, and microenterprise development. Offering an annual grant of up to $1,000, this initiative honors Mrs. Laschober's legacy and her contributions to Latin America. Through this fund, Partners of the Americas aims to empower communities and foster meaningful connections across the Western Hemisphere, reinforcing the importance of education and entrepreneurship.

The REI Cooperative Action Fund Grant supports U.S.-based organizations that align with its mission to serve communities, particularly those connecting historically excluded individuals to the outdoors. The fund prioritizes initiatives that promote equitable access to outdoor spaces, enhance community health through nature, and create inclusive outdoor experiences. Eligible applicants must have a 501(c)(3) status and demonstrate a commitment to these values. However, individuals and certain organizations are not eligible for funding.

The Cancer Center Support Grants (CCSGs) aim to bolster NCI-Designated Cancer Centers through funding that supports diverse research activities. These grants enhance comprehensive, clinical, and basic cancer research while fostering collaboration among institutions. The program prioritizes interdisciplinary approaches to advance cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, ultimately reducing cancer's impact on public health. CCSGs also facilitate resource sharing, administrative support, and the development of innovative research initiatives.