Best Foundation Grants for Nonprofits in Tennessee

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.

Radio Systems Corporation aims to enhance community welfare through its Product Donation Requests program. With over $2 million contributed last year, the initiative focuses on supporting non-profits dedicated to animal welfare and youth education. This year, the goal is to positively impact 14.5 million individuals and pets. The program welcomes applications from eligible organizations, while ensuring that for-profit entities and political campaigns are not considered for donations.

The TN Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) offers Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE) to assist private and tribal landowners in protecting and restoring wetlands affected by agriculture. This program provides significant benefits, including improved water quality, enhanced wildlife habitat, and resilience to climate change. NRCS covers all costs associated with the easement process, ensuring landowners can effectively restore their wetlands through various enrollment options, including permanent and term easements.

The Norfolk Southern Corporate Giving: Thriving Communities Grant Program supports initiatives that promote sustainability, workforce development, and community resilience across a 22-state network. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, the program aims to foster economic development and ensure equal access to basic necessities. Eligible organizations include tax-exempt nonprofits, government entities, and public schools, emphasizing diversity and inclusion in their community-focused efforts.

The Tennessee Housing Trust Fund Competitive Grants support the development and preservation of rental housing for low- and very-low income households, including the elderly and special needs populations. Eligible projects can receive funding between $100,000 and $600,000, focusing on those with incomes at or below 80% of the area median income. Priority is given to projects in rural areas and those serving the most vulnerable populations, ensuring access to safe and affordable housing.

The James M. Cox Foundation Grant offers support to nonprofit organizations focused on conservation, early childhood education, family empowerment, and health. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and located in areas where Cox Enterprises operates. Grant applications are accepted year-round, with deadlines before Trustee meetings. Preference is given to organizations with a history of local engagement. This foundation embodies the philanthropic spirit of its founder, James M. Cox, by giving back to the community.

The Stream and Wetland Restoration Grant, provided by the Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation, aims to restore natural resources impacted by violations of the Tennessee Water Quality Control Act. Eligible applicants include nonprofit corporations, state and federal agencies, and municipalities. Projects must contribute to strategic investment areas, comply with regulatory requirements, and demonstrate their capacity to manage funds effectively. Leveraging additional resources is essential, with a minimum of 20% required from other sources.

The Region 4 Small Business Transportation Technical Assistance Center (SBTTAC) aims to empower small businesses by providing essential technical assistance and business development support. Funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation, this initiative will facilitate access to capital resources, connect businesses with key transportation agencies, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. The program is dedicated to minimizing barriers for small enterprises while fostering a robust support system in the transportation sector.

The Battlefield Preservation Fund Grant aims to support initiatives that preserve battlefields and related historic sites. This funding encourages planning and educational efforts, particularly those that engage new audiences in preservation activities. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofits in specified states. Grants can be used for staff support, consultant fees, and educational materials. Applicants must provide a one-to-one match for funding, ensuring strong community involvement in preservation efforts.

The Sunstate Equipment Foundation Grants support local charities focused on disadvantaged individuals, medical aid, housing assistance, domestic violence awareness, military and veterans' assistance, and care for abused animals. Founded in 2015, the foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that matches employee contributions dollar for dollar, reinforcing its commitment to community support and engagement. Charities in good standing can apply once every 12 months, fostering impactful initiatives where Sunstate operates.

The Dettwiller Foundation Grants support a broad array of initiatives in Tennessee, honoring Fred Dettwiller's charitable legacy. The foundation focuses on religious, educational, health and human services, the arts, and support for law enforcement and first responders. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations that align with these areas of focus, promoting community welfare and development.

About Us

The Tennessee Office of Homeland Security (TOHS) has primary responsibility and authority for directing statewide activities pertaining to the prevention of and protection from terrorist related events. This responsibility includes the development and implementation of a comprehensive and coordinated strategy to secure the state from terrorist threats and attacks. Further, TOHS serves as a liaison between federal, state and local agencies, as well as the private sector, on matters relating to the security of our state and citizens.

Houses of Worship State Security Grant Program

The State of Tennessee’s Houses of Worship Security Grant is a competitive grant for eligible 501(c)(3) organizations intended to fund contracted security personnel for their religious institutions. This grant has a 12-month grant period and funds will be disbursed through a Tennessee cost reimbursement grant contract.

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security ("Department") has been appropriated funding, from the Tennessee General Assembly, to disburse through Tennessee cost reimbursement grant contracts. No more than one (1) grant award will be made to an eligible organization in a single state fiscal year. An applicant must demonstrate the threat and vulnerability to their organization and how the grant funding will address gaps and deficiencies in their current program and capabilities. Only one applicant can apply per building, facility, physical structure, or address. As a competitive grant, funds are not awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Each item in the application has been assigned a point value, each application will be evaluated and scored, and grant contracts will be awarded based on scores and funding availability.

Arbor Rising Grant, established in 2010, is a NYC-based nonprofit providing unrestricted multi-year funding and capacity-building support to nonprofits focused on alleviating poverty. The grant process occurs every three years, with the next round in 2025 being invitation-only. Eligible organizations must demonstrate high potential and effective leadership, typically operating on a modest budget. Arbor Rising prioritizes applicants from the NYC metro area while expanding to cover the lower 48 US states.

About CommonSpirit

A calling that defines and unites

At CommonSpirit Health, we passionately care for the most vulnerable, relentlessly innovate how and where healing can happen and believe in uniting to benefit the common good. Our expansive network spans diverse communities, uniquely positioning us to meet their changing needs, improve population health and help chart the path to health equity.

Our mission, vision and values inform every aspect of our work each day and remind us that we serve our patients, their families, our communities – and each other. Our community health, research and home health programs help us address the primary barriers to healthier communities.

Sponsorship requests

We’re proud to support nonprofits that expand access to care, advance health equity and healthier communities. Learn more about our priorities.

Supporting our communities

CommonSpirit Health and our local facilities support nonprofit organizations that share our mission, vision and values. We give priority to programs that improve access to care and promote health equity and healthier communities.

CommonSpirit is proud to support nonprofit organizations that help improve the health and well-being of our communities. Guided by our mission, vision and values, we prioritize projects that focus on advancing health equity, improving access to care and improving community wellness.

The Akima Grant Program, managed by Akima Club Inc, provides essential financial support to local nonprofit agencies. This year, over $86,000 was awarded to more than 50 diverse organizations, enhancing community services in the fields of arts, culture, science, and social support. The program's mission emphasizes compassion and respect for the community, aiming to assist agencies that directly impact clients. Funding is generated through community-driven events, showcasing a long-standing commitment to local betterment.

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

CommonSpirit Health offers the Community Health Improvement Grant to enhance health equity and service systems for underserved populations. Through collaborative efforts with 501(c)(3) organizations, this initiative provides financial support for essential health projects. Grant amounts range from $19,500 for small grants to $150,000 for standard grants, varying by hospital. Participating hospitals include those under Catholic Health Initiatives and Dignity Health, aimed at addressing significant community health needs.

Tennessee Housing Development Agency

Since 1973, Tennessee Housing Development Agency (“THDA”)  has been at the forefront of creating housing opportunities in Tennessee. Our purpose: Promote the production of more affordable new housing units for very low-, low-, and moderate-income individuals and families in Tennessee; Promote the preservation and rehabilitation of existing housing units for very low-, low-, and moderate-income individuals and families; Bring greater stability to the residential construction industry and related industries so as to assure a steady flow of production of new housing units.

The THDA administers the federally funded HOME Investment Partnership Program (“HOME”) to promote the production, preservation, and rehabilitation of single-family housing for low-income households. The purpose of this Program Description is to explain the requirements and the application process of THDA’s HOME Homeowner Rehabilitation Program. 

HOME Homeownership Development

THDA will make HOME funds available to non-profit organizations that meet the designation of a Community Housing Development Organization (“CHDO”) through a competitive application process. An applicant must apply for a HOME grant of at least $250,000 for program costs, but may apply for a maximum HOME grant of $1,000,000 for program costs and may also apply for operating assistance up to an amount equal to 7% of program costs.

Eligible housing activities under this program description include Homeownership Programs: THDA expects that the Grant Recipients will not only shepherd the homebuyer through the home buying process, but also work toward fostering an on-going relationship with the homebuyer. This responsibility includes facilitating additional homeowner counseling, verifying homeowner occupancy requirements on an annual basis, and monitoring mortgage loan default issues. 

The AdvoCare Foundation, established in 1993, aims to promote health and wellness for children through its grant program. Focused on year-round initiatives, the foundation supports local communities where AdvoCare distributors operate. Grants typically last one year with an average funding of $25,000, although multi-year support may be available. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster positive health changes and encourages collaborative efforts with previous grantees.

CSX Charitable Investments provide essential in-kind donations to nonprofit organizations focused on supporting military members and community first responders. Through intermodal transportation services, CSX offers equipment and rail services to help reduce transportation costs for eligible organizations. The program also includes occasional donations of railroad materials and equipment based on availability. CSX prioritizes support for organizations operating within its service areas, promoting community betterment and development.

James Avery Corporate Grants support 501(c)(3) organizations located within 50 miles of a James Avery retail or corporate location. The foundation prioritizes projects that enrich community life, focusing on arts, veteran services, and wellness. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $25,000, with applications accepted once per year. Organizations must demonstrate community impact, effective management, and provide necessary documentation for eligibility. Note that certain types of funding, such as for individuals or for-profit organizations, are excluded.

The Resilient and Connected Appalachians Grant Program, offered by The Nature Conservancy, provides up to $100,000 for projects that acquire land and easements throughout the Appalachian region. This program emphasizes equitable conservation, aiming to support historically marginalized communities and enhance access to nature while addressing climate change impacts. Projects must demonstrate community engagement and align with the program's goals to protect vital habitats and foster resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

The Patterson Foundation offers Assistance Dog Program Grants to support organizations providing service animals to veterans and individuals with disabilities. Funding is available for projects that expand capacity, personnel costs related to puppy training, and program support aimed at improving client experiences. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) non-profits and can request grants up to $35,000 for capital projects or $10,000 for program support. Applications are accepted through a two-step process.

Tennessee Housing Development Agency

Since 1973, Tennessee Housing Development Agency (“THDA”)  has been at the forefront of creating housing opportunities in Tennessee. Our purpose: Promote the production of more affordable new housing units for very low-, low-, and moderate-income individuals and families in Tennessee; Promote the preservation and rehabilitation of existing housing units for very low-, low-, and moderate-income individuals and families; Bring greater stability to the residential construction industry and related industries so as to assure a steady flow of production of new housing units.

The THDA administers the federally funded HOME Investment Partnership Program (“HOME”) to promote the production, preservation, and rehabilitation of single-family housing for low-income households. The purpose of this Program Description is to explain the requirements and the application process of THDA’s HOME Homeowner Rehabilitation Program. 

HOME Homeowner Rehabilitation

HOME funds are awarded under this Program Description through a competitive application process open to cities, counties, and non-profit organizations that are located outside of local participating jurisdictions. Local participating jurisdictions (“Local PJs”) are those local governments that also receive HOME funds directly from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”). The Local PJs in Tennessee are Chattanooga, Clarksville, Jackson, Knoxville, Memphis, Murfreesboro, Nashville-Davidson County, Knox County, Shelby County, and the Northeast Tennessee/Virginia Consortium (the cities of Bristol, Kingsport, Johnson City, Bluff City, Sullivan County, and Washington County, excluding the Town of Jonesborough). Non-profit organizations located in a Local PJ may apply for projects located outside of a Local PJ. An applicant must apply for at least $250,000 and may apply for a maximum HOME grant of $750,000 for funding under this Program Description. 

The Appalachian Region Healthcare Support Program aims to enhance healthcare delivery in rural areas by providing technical assistance to organizations such as critical access hospitals and rural health clinics. By focusing on planning and implementing healthcare service improvements, the program seeks to strengthen the operational performance and quality of care within these communities, ultimately benefiting the residents served by the Appalachian Regional Commission.

The TN Section 319 Nonpoint Source Grant Program, administered by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, addresses the critical issue of nonpoint source pollution, which affects water quality across the state. This program provides funding for Best Management Practices to combat pollution, supports watershed restoration projects, and promotes public education on managing water resources effectively. With a cost-share model, it incentivizes local initiatives to protect and restore vital water bodies in Tennessee.

Tennessee Department of Economic & Community Development

The Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD) is the state agency that helps businesses large and small succeed in Tennessee. We recruit new businesses to the state, support the growth of existing businesses and market the state as a premier business destination.

In pursuit of sustainable job-creation and investment in Tennessee, TNECD works closely with public- and private-sector partners at the state, regional and local levels. 

Downtown Improvement Grant Program

Tennessee Main Street Programs and Tennessee Downtowns alumni Rounds 1-9 who are currently pursuing certified status and have an active Design Committee, are eligible for a grant from the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD) for downtown improvements. Grants of up to $300,000 will be awarded to organizations that can illustrate the need for improvements and the ability to execute an effective design plan for eligible properties in their downtown district. Improvement can include:

• Building Façade Improvements (At least 50% of the proposed total grant project must be for façade improvements)
• Downtown Gateway Improvements on publicly owned property
• Streetscape Improvements on publicly owned property
• Downtown Courtyard Improvements-on publicly owned property
• Downtown/Wayfinding Signage
• Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
• Safety and Stability Improvements to include roofs and sprinkler systems at a percentage of total project
• Entertainment Venue Improvements to include stages (Eligibility must be approved by TNECD)