Best Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits in Tennessee

BISSELL Pet Foundation's Partners for Pets program supports over 6,025 animal welfare organizations across the U.S. by providing resources aimed at reducing homeless animals through adoption, spay/neuter initiatives, and emergency support. Eligible organizations must be 501(C)(3) nonprofits or local government entities engaged in animal welfare, fostering community connections and financial assistance during crises. This initiative not only benefits shelters but also enhances partnerships among various animal welfare groups, promoting a united effort to improve animal lives.

PetSmart Charities offers Natural Disaster Response Grants to support organizations addressing the urgent needs of pets affected by major disasters. Grant funds can be utilized for shelter supplies, veterinary care, structural repairs, and supplemental staff expenses within 30 to 45 days post-disaster. In special cases, funding may extend up to 60 days. Eligible applicants include authorized disaster responders and nonprofit organizations directly impacted by the disaster, ensuring timely assistance to affected animals and their caretakers.

PetSmart Charities' Adoption Partnerships and Event Grants support organizations in finding loving homes for pets. With over 10 million pets placed, the program offers resources like cash rewards for adoptions and grants for event support. Eligible partners include registered charities and educational institutions. The maximum grant available is $5,000, aimed at maximizing the impact of adoption events. Join us in enhancing the lives of pets and their new families through collaboration and community engagement.

The Economic Development Fund for East Tennessee Grant Program, established in 1991, aims to support charitable and economic initiatives that foster regional economic growth. Organizations eligible for funding must operate within East Tennessee's 25-county service area and provide necessary documentation, including nonprofit status. Grants, ranging from $5,000 to $6,500, will be awarded for one-year terms starting August 1, 2024, with applications opening in August 2024.

The Harry W. and Carolyn W. Galbraith Memorial Fund Grant supports animal care organizations focusing on spaying and neutering programs for cats and dogs. Established in 2014, it awards grants ranging from $3,000 to $5,000 for one-year terms beginning August 2024. Eligible organizations must be located within the Foundation's service area and provide services primarily to low-income pet owners. Funds may also cover rabies vaccinations, enhancing overall animal welfare in the community.

Scholarships support aspiring college students who hold the promise of tomorrow’s progress.

Together, our competitive grants and scholarships help our region rise thanks to the vision and generosity of our donors.

Irving R. and Carol Rutkin Scholarship Fund

• High school senior attending a public or private High school in the southern part of Palm Beach County (Delray Beach to Boca Raton).
• The student must exhibit integrity and initiative.
• This is a need based scholarship.

The Joan Mitchell Fellowship supports 15 US-based artists in painting and sculpture with $60,000 over five years. It offers crucial financial resources, skills development, and community building. The fellowship also includes workshops, consultations, and opportunities for residencies, particularly for those in their fourth year or beyond. The program emphasizes diversity, encouraging nominations from underrepresented artists to foster a rich cultural discourse in the arts.

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Individuals, families, organizations and businesses establish funds at the Foundation to carry out their charitable giving now and in the future.

Community Foundation of Henderson County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public charity, governed by a volunteer board of directors, that has been assisting donors fulfill their philanthropic dreams since 1982.

Our Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.

Scholarships

Community Foundation of Henderson County's Scholarship Program began in 1984. Thanks to the generosity of passionate donors, over 2,000 traditional and non-traditional students have been provided more than $10 million in scholarships to pursue higher education.

Robert C. Edwards, Jr. and Sandra Edwards Waggoner Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is to provide financial aid to a deserving student who has a desire and commitment to pursue his or her education.

About Disabled Veterans National FoundationThe Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF) was established in 2007 to support veterans facing challenges that traditional systems could not fully address. From its earliest days, DVNF has been focused on closing critical gaps in care and providing resources that help veterans rebuild their lives with dignity and stability. The Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF) provides critically needed support to disabled and at-risk veterans who leave the military wounded—physically or psychologically—after defending our safety and freedom.About Comfort Kits and Grab N' Go ProgramIn addition to our direct outreach, the DVNF also supports like-minded organizations that share our commitment to serving veterans. Approved organizations can apply to receive Comfort Kits for distribution to veterans in their communities. These kits are designed to meet the unique needs of veterans and offer critical support where they are needed most.

The Jason Debus Heigl Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations dedicated to animal welfare in the U.S. It aims to maximize the benefit to animals through education, spay and neuter initiatives, and positive advocacy. The foundation focuses on impactful programs, encouraging grants that align with their mission to end animal overpopulation and cruelty. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits, while individuals and political lobbying efforts are excluded from funding.

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Individuals, families, organizations and businesses establish funds at the Foundation to carry out their charitable giving now and in the future.

Community Foundation of Henderson County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public charity, governed by a volunteer board of directors, that has been assisting donors fulfill their philanthropic dreams since 1982.

Our Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.

Scholarships

Community Foundation of Henderson County's Scholarship Program began in 1984. Thanks to the generosity of passionate donors, over 2,000 traditional and non-traditional students have been provided more than $10 million in scholarships to pursue higher education.

Thomas Oliver and Louise Jordan Mulcahy Scholarship

This scholarship is for a graduate of a high school in Henderson County and shall be awarded based on academic standing and financial need. The recipient need not be at the top of his or her class academically nor at the bottom of his or her class financially.

The schlarship is renewable.

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Individuals, families, organizations and businesses establish funds at the Foundation to carry out their charitable giving now and in the future.

Community Foundation of Henderson County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public charity, governed by a volunteer board of directors, that has been assisting donors fulfill their philanthropic dreams since 1982.

Our Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.

Scholarships

Community Foundation of Henderson County's Scholarship Program began in 1984. Thanks to the generosity of passionate donors, over 2,000 traditional and non-traditional students have been provided more than $10 million in scholarships to pursue higher education.

T. Llyle and Marion S. Keith Scholarship

The applicant must be a graduating senior or a graduate of a public high school in Henderson County. This scholarship is not based on merit (however, must have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 or better), but on financial need. Students must be pursuing their undergraduate education in a two or four year accredited institution.

The schlarship is renewable.

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Individuals, families, organizations and businesses establish funds at the Foundation to carry out their charitable giving now and in the future.

Community Foundation of Henderson County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public charity, governed by a volunteer board of directors, that has been assisting donors fulfill their philanthropic dreams since 1982.

Our Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.

Scholarships

Community Foundation of Henderson County's Scholarship Program began in 1984. Thanks to the generosity of passionate donors, over 2,000 traditional and non-traditional students have been provided more than $10 million in scholarships to pursue higher education.

Tracy Grove Community Club Scholarship

Applicant must graduate from a school in Henderson County and must intend to enroll in a degree-granting program in an accredited two- or four-year institute. 

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Individuals, families, organizations and businesses establish funds at the Foundation to carry out their charitable giving now and in the future.

Community Foundation of Henderson County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public charity, governed by a volunteer board of directors, that has been assisting donors fulfill their philanthropic dreams since 1982.

Our Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.

Scholarships

Community Foundation of Henderson County's Scholarship Program began in 1984. Thanks to the generosity of passionate donors, over 2,000 traditional and non-traditional students have been provided more than $10 million in scholarships to pursue higher education.

Valley Clinic Scholarship

Applicant must be pursuing a degree in the health care field who demonstrates financial need and academic merit. Applicant must be a full-time resident of the Hickory Nut Gorge community.

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Individuals, families, organizations and businesses establish funds at the Foundation to carry out their charitable giving now and in the future.

Community Foundation of Henderson County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public charity, governed by a volunteer board of directors, that has been assisting donors fulfill their philanthropic dreams since 1982.

Our Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.

Scholarships

Community Foundation of Henderson County's Scholarship Program began in 1984. Thanks to the generosity of passionate donors, over 2,000 traditional and non-traditional students have been provided more than $10 million in scholarships to pursue higher education.

VFW Hedrick-Rhodes Post 5206 Scholarship

Applicant must be a graduating senior or graduate of a public, parochial, or private school and intend to enroll in a degree-granting program at an accredited school. 

The schlarship is renewable.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Shirley M. Hurd Education Scholarship Fund

The Shirley M. Hurd Education Scholarship Fund was created upon receipt of a bequest from the estate of Shirley Miller Hurd.

The fund supports college scholarships for local students. In the awarding of these scholarships, preference is given to students attending Northwestern University.

Mr. Hurd organized and was president of the world famous Sealmaster Softball team. He and his wife traveled throughout the country with the team, which eventually achieved championship status. Mrs. Hurd was a member of St. Peter Catholic Church, where she established a scholarship for students attending St. Peter Catholic School.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. The most common scholarship award amount is $1,000 for a single year. Scholarships are designated as non-renewable one-year awards or renewable multi-year awards depending upon the scholarship fund criteria, as established by the donor of the scholarship fund.

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Individuals, families, organizations and businesses establish funds at the Foundation to carry out their charitable giving now and in the future.

Community Foundation of Henderson County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public charity, governed by a volunteer board of directors, that has been assisting donors fulfill their philanthropic dreams since 1982.

Our Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.

Scholarships

Community Foundation of Henderson County's Scholarship Program began in 1984. Thanks to the generosity of passionate donors, over 2,000 traditional and non-traditional students have been provided more than $10 million in scholarships to pursue higher education.

Winifred M. Wyman Memorial Scholarship

Applicant must be a graduate of a Henderson County public school who wishes to pursue his or her education at an accredited college or university. 

The schlarship is renewable.

The Health Policy Research Scholars program, funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, aims to develop leadership among doctoral students from diverse, nonclinical disciplines. This four-year initiative focuses on aligning research with community health needs, emphasizing equity and collaboration across sectors. Scholars will receive $30,000 annually for up to four years, complemented by mentorship and training. The program targets second-year doctoral students who are committed to influencing health policy and fostering a Culture of Health in their communities.

About Disabled Veterans National FoundationThe Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF) was established in 2007 to support veterans facing challenges that traditional systems could not fully address. From its earliest days, DVNF has been focused on closing critical gaps in care and providing resources that help veterans rebuild their lives with dignity and stability. The Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF) provides critically needed support to disabled and at-risk veterans who leave the military wounded—physically or psychologically—after defending our safety and freedom.

About Grants to Provide Stability (GPS) ProgramThe Disabled Veterans National Foundation’s GPS (Grants to Provide Stability) Program is a grant program for veterans who find themselves in temporary financial setback. DVNF will provide up to $1,000 (not guaranteed) to help eligible veterans pay for rent or mortgage and essential utilities such as water or electricity. Applications are open on a monthly basis. Please note that each veteran can only be approved once per fiscal year (October – September).

The Self-Sustainability Granting offered by the Women’s Fund of East Tennessee aims to empower low-income women and girls by providing one-time grants to agencies that support their journey towards independence. This initiative focuses on addressing urgent needs and expanding services, ensuring a lasting impact in the community. By aligning with the fund's mission, these grants foster resilience and promote sustainable futures for families in East Tennessee.

The Urology Care Foundation Bridge Award, supported by Dornier MedTech, aims to assist established urology researchers facing financial challenges. It provides up to $60,000 over a 12-month period to sustain vital urologic projects at risk due to funding gaps or setbacks. This unrestricted funding targets independent researchers who are no longer under formal mentorship, ensuring that those actively engaged in research receive timely support to maintain their competitiveness in the field.

The Shawn Carter Scholarship Fund (SCSF) supports motivated individuals in need by providing financial assistance for education. Aimed at underserved youth and young adults, the SCSF helps cover tuition and related expenses, ensuring access to higher education. Eligible candidates include high school seniors, GED holders, and undergraduate students with a minimum GPA of 2.0. The program encourages community service, fostering a spirit of giving back among its scholars.

The NIOSH Small Research Grant Program (R03) aims to enhance the understanding of occupational disease risks and develop strategies for risk reduction. This grant supports research projects that require limited resources, including pilot studies and data analysis, to effectively translate scientific findings into practice. Applicants are urged to articulate the health burdens addressed and the anticipated impacts of their research on workplace safety and health, thereby contributing to the reduction of work-related illnesses and injuries.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

James H. & Ione P. Fitzgerald Scholarship Endowment Fund

James and Ione Fitzgerald bequeathed a portion of their estate to provide scholarships for students graduating from high schools located within the City of Aurora.

James Fitzgerald (1907-1995) was born in Oswego. He attained the rank of lieutenant with the Illinois State Police. Later, he served as the treasurer of Kane County.

He was a member of A. F. & A. M. Masonic Lodge #90, Aurora Moose Lodge #400, the Aurora Elks Club, Phoenix Club and the Elburn Lions Club.

Ione Fitzgerald (1914-2006) was born in Chicago. She was a graduate of East Aurora High School.

From 1939-1944, she was secretary to the director of Mooseheart. She later moved to Elgin where she was a buyer for Ackemann’s Department Store.

Mrs. Fitzgerald was the president of the Elgin Girl Scouts and a member of the Lady Elks.

After the death of their former spouses, James and Ione Fitzgerald were married in 1980.

The KONG Toy Grant, offered by the Petfinder Foundation in collaboration with KONG, aims to enhance the adoptability of shelter pets by providing enriching toys. This initiative supports animal shelters and adopters throughout North America, helping to keep pets mentally stimulated and happy. By focusing on pet enrichment, the grant seeks to increase the chances of successful adoptions, thereby reducing the euthanasia of adoptable animals. Organizations that are Petfinder.com members can apply for these valuable resources.

The Petfinder Foundation's Disaster Response and Recovery Grants provide crucial support to Petfinder members affected by natural disasters. These grants assist organizations in recovering from events like hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods, ensuring that adoptable pets receive necessary care. Eligible applicants must be active Petfinder members and demonstrate a need due to disasters occurring within the past 60 days. The initiative aims to enhance the resilience of shelters and rescue groups in challenging times.

EZ Start Scholarship

At Ezderm, we believe education drives progress—in healthcare, technology, and every field where curiosity and hard work make a difference. To support the next generation of innovators, we’re proud to offer the EZ Start $1,000 Scholarship. This award is designed to ease some of the financial pressures of college life, giving students the freedom to focus on their goals. Whether it’s tuition, textbooks, housing, or supplies, this scholarship is here to help.