Best Shelby County Grants for Nonprofits in Tennessee

The Helen M. Heitmann Young Scholar Award, presented by SHAPE America, honors young professionals who have made significant contributions to research in curriculum and instruction within health and physical education. Eligible candidates must be current SHAPE America members and have 3 to 6 years of experience post-doctorate. This award emphasizes active involvement and scholarship in the field, encouraging innovative research that enhances educational practices for preK-12 students.

The E.B. Henderson Award, presented by SHAPE America, honors minority members who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to scholarship, mentorship, and advocacy for ethnic minorities within health and physical education. Established in 1885, SHAPE America serves over 200,000 professionals, promoting high-quality education standards. The award recognizes individuals who have significantly contributed to increasing the participation of underserved populations in the field. Limited to two awards annually, it highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in health education.

The Curriculum and Instruction Honor Award, presented by SHAPE America, recognizes outstanding contributions to health and physical education curriculum research. This prestigious award highlights the importance of effective instructional practices that prepare students for active and healthy lives. Award recipients are selected based on their scholarship in health education and physical education, demonstrating commitment to excellence since the organization's founding in 1885. SHAPE America advocates for quality education and promotes the well-being of preK-12 students across the United States.

The Elroy Webster Cooperative Studies Scholarships support graduate and law students in agricultural cooperative programs. Up to two EWCS Fellows can receive $2,500 each year, while up to three EWCS Scholars may receive $1,000. Applicants must demonstrate how their studies benefit the agricultural cooperative industry. The program promotes inclusivity, welcoming candidates without regard to race or background, and encourages attendance at related events to enhance networking and recognition.

The VFW Student Fellowship, hosted by the Veterans of Foreign Wars and Student Veterans of America, empowers student veterans to advocate for their community on Capitol Hill. Running from October 2025 to March 2026, this program offers selected fellows the chance to collaborate on policy priorities, attend leadership training, and participate in significant conferences, ensuring their voices are heard among 500 advocates at the VFW Washington Conference. Travel expenses are fully covered.

The Peyronie's Disease Fund, managed by the HealthWell Foundation, aims to alleviate financial burdens for underinsured patients suffering from Peyronie's disease. This condition involves the formation of fibrous scar tissue in the penis, leading to painful erections and erectile dysfunction. The fund provides financial assistance for prescription drugs and related healthcare costs, ensuring that patients receive necessary treatment without the stress of high out-of-pocket expenses. HealthWell is committed to improving access to essential healthcare for America’s underinsured population.

The BRAID Fellowship, initiated by Interfaith America, addresses rising prejudice in higher education by fostering a national network of undergraduate student leaders. This program empowers students to promote respect and cooperation across diverse backgrounds. Each fellow receives a $1,000 project award and a $2,000 stipend, along with opportunities for specialized training and community engagement. Through this initiative, Interfaith America commits to cultivating a diverse cohort that represents a wide range of religious and ideological perspectives.

The AΩA Fellows in Leadership Program, established by the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, aims to cultivate leadership skills among mid-career medical professionals. Recipients receive $30,000 to develop a year-long project focused on enhancing their leadership capabilities. This initiative emphasizes servant leadership and innovative thinking, addressing the increasing complexities in healthcare. The program seeks to empower leaders who can effectively navigate the evolving landscape of medicine while promoting the core values of the AΩA society.

U.S. Venture Sponsorships, supported by the Us Venture Schmidt Family Foundation, aim to enhance community engagement by addressing the root causes of poverty through collaboration and social innovation. Grants typically do not exceed $10,000, ensuring that eligible public charities, especially those with 501(c)(3) status, can benefit. Each organization can receive one sponsorship grant annually, reflecting U.S. Venture's commitment to giving back and fostering meaningful partnerships.

The Morris Animal Foundation invites proposals for the Feline Health Fellowship Training Award, aimed at advancing the health and welfare of domesticated cats. This program supports new investigators by providing salary funds in a mentoring environment. Proposals should focus on hypothesis-driven research with high scientific merit, targeting community and pet cats (Felis catus). The maximum award duration is 24 months, with budgets not exceeding $145,000. Join us in making impactful contributions to feline health.

The Morris Animal Foundation offers the Annual Feline Proposals: Feline Health Established Investigator Award to support research aimed at improving the health and welfare of domesticated cats. Established in 1948, the foundation funds innovative, hypothesis-driven studies that demonstrate high scientific merit. This grant encourages collaboration between academia and industry and has a maximum project duration of 36 months, with average awards around $100,000. Eligible proposals should focus solely on domesticated cats, excluding other feline species.

The Morris Animal Foundation offers the Annual Feline Health Pilot Study Award to support innovative research that enhances the health and welfare of domesticated cats. This funding is aimed at proof-of-concept studies, advancing animal health research through collaborative projects. With a maximum funding of $20,000 for a 12-month duration, the foundation seeks proposals that have a significant impact on both scientific and community stakeholders, ensuring a healthier future for feline populations.

The USTA Player Development Excellence Grant supports aspiring U.S. tennis players by providing financial assistance based on performance and potential. Grants of up to $12,000 are awarded to players who meet specific criteria, encouraging their development into top 100 professionals. By utilizing USTA facilities and coaching, players can maximize their growth. The program aims to nurture young talent and ensure they have the resources necessary to succeed in competitive tennis.

The Julian U. Stein Lifetime Achievement Award honors a SHAPE America professional who epitomizes Dr. Stein's exemplary leadership in education, mentorship, and advocacy for individuals with disabilities. With over 45 years of dedication to the field, Julian Stein has made significant contributions through writing, public speaking, and community service. This award recognizes those who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to improving lives through physical activity and educational programming for individuals with disabilities.

Patagonia’s Corporate Grant supports grassroots organizations focused on bold, direct-action campaigns that address the root causes of environmental issues. The program emphasizes equity, inclusivity, and long-term change, targeting communities affected by environmental exploitation. Grants are awarded to innovative groups within the US and Canada, fostering civic engagement and measurable objectives. Patagonia prioritizes funding for initiatives that confront systemic bias and promote environmental justice, ensuring that diverse voices are represented in the environmental movement.

The New Music Creator Fund provides financial support to individual music creators across all genres, helping them advance their creative practice. This initiative covers costs associated with developing new work and collaborative projects. Applicants must be at least 21 years old and have three years of professional music experience. The fund aims to empower diverse music creators in the U.S. by facilitating the development of innovative musical ideas and fostering artistic collaboration.

The Music Teachers of Excellence (MToE) Award, managed by the CMA Foundation, recognizes outstanding public-school music educators. This prestigious award, with a $5,000 prize, aims to support teachers who inspire students and enrich their communities through music education. The application will open on September 3, 2025, allowing full-time music teachers with at least four years of experience to showcase their commitment and impact in the field. Stay tuned for more details!

The Special Excellence Annual Scholarship, offered by the CIRI Foundation, supports full-time students in 4-year undergraduate or graduate programs who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and community service. With awards up to $20,000 for one academic year, this merit-based scholarship emphasizes the importance of maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.7 and encourages contributions to the Alaska Native community. This initiative fosters educational success and economic self-sufficiency among Alaska Natives and their descendants.

The Raven Fund Scholarships, offered by the CIRI Foundation, support educational aspirations for CIRI voting shareholders who are not original shareholders or descendants. Award amounts include $200 per credit for full-time students, up to $3,000 per term, and similar support for part-time students. Funds cover tuition, fees, books, supplies, and housing. Applicants must have a high school diploma, be enrolled in an accredited program, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 to qualify.

The Raven Fund Jump Start Award, established by the CIRI Foundation, provides scholarships of up to $2,000 per year for CIRI voting shareholders who are high school students. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a recognized post-secondary education program, maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0. The funding covers direct educational costs such as tuition, books, and housing. The award allows for multiple applications within the year, encouraging ongoing educational pursuits.

The AGD Foundation Grant Program supports nonprofit organizations in the U.S. and Canada that provide free oral cancer screenings and education, particularly for underserved communities. Established in 1972, the AGD Foundation aims to enhance public oral health and raise awareness about oral/oropharyngeal cancer. By promoting early detection and education, the foundation seeks to improve survival rates and empower communities. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations demonstrating a commitment to community health.

The Raven Fund Career Technical Education Scholarships, offered by the CIRI Foundation, aim to support CIRI voting shareholders pursuing technical skill training. With awards up to $9,000 per year, eligible applicants must be enrolled in recognized programs and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. The scholarships cover essential educational expenses, including tuition and fees, and also allow for personal expenses under certain conditions. This initiative fosters economic self-sufficiency and educational advancement among Alaska Native beneficiaries.

The Excellence Annual Scholarship, offered by the CIRI Foundation, supports full-time undergraduate and graduate students with a minimum GPA of 3.5. This merit-based scholarship recognizes academic excellence and community service, providing up to $10,000 for one academic year. Funding covers direct educational expenses and personal expenses, ensuring Alaska Native beneficiaries can pursue their educational and career aspirations while preserving their rich cultural heritage.

The CIRI Foundation offers the Higher Education Scholarship to support Alaska Native students pursuing post-secondary education. Scholarships provide $200 per credit hour for undergraduates and $400 for graduates, with a maximum of $9,000 per year. Eligible applicants must be CIRI shareholders or descendants, maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA, and be enrolled in accredited institutions. This initiative aims to enhance educational opportunities and promote cultural heritage.

The CIRI Foundation offers the Career Technical Education Scholarship to support Alaska Native beneficiaries pursuing post-secondary education. This scholarship provides up to $9,000 per year for educational expenses, including tuition and required supplies. Eligible applicants must be CIRI original shareholders or descendants, possess a high school diploma or GED, and maintain a minimum GPA. The foundation aims to promote self-sufficiency and the cultural legacy of Alaska Natives through education.

The CIRI Foundation, established in 1982, promotes education and economic self-sufficiency for Alaska Natives through scholarships like the Cap Lathrop Scholarship. This award offers up to $2,000 to full-time students pursuing degrees in fields such as business, engineering, and media. Eligible applicants must be Alaska Native shareholders or descendants, maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, and intend to work in Alaska's broadcast industry. The scholarship supports both educational and personal expenses.

The Achievement Annual Scholarship, offered by the CIRI Foundation, supports Alaska Native students pursuing higher education. This merit-based scholarship awards up to $8,000 for one academic year, covering direct educational costs and personal expenses. Applicants must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and be enrolled full-time in a 4-year undergraduate or graduate program. The scholarship aims to promote academic excellence and career development while honoring the cultural legacy of Alaska Natives.