Best Grants for Museums in Tennessee

The Strategic Alliance Matching Grant by the NCAA Division III aims to bolster ethnic minority and gender representation in senior athletics administration roles. With an annual budget of $1.6 million, it supports up to 46 schools and conferences over five years. Eligible institutions must be active NCAA Division III members and meet various requirements. This grant encourages diversity in leadership, fostering an inclusive environment for student-athletes.

Tennessee Department of Health

Mission: Protect, promote, and improve the health and well-being of all people in Tennessee.

The Tennessee Department of Health's highly talented and dedicated professionals reflect a standard of performance in its effective and engaging public health efforts and collaborative commitment to providing compassionate service to people in all 95 counties of the state. TDH provides health care and wellness services daily to Tennesseans through a statewide network of 89 rural and six metropolitan county health departments at 117 physical locations.

Rural Healthcare Access Modernization Program (RAMP)

Description

The Rural Healthcare Access Modernization Program (RAMP) is intended to strengthen healthcare access in rural Tennessee by funding targeted capital improvements at rural hospitals and supporting the establishment or expansion of rural primary care practices. The opportunity seeks to increase service capacity, improve operational efficiency and quality of care, modernize healthcare facilities, and address critical provider shortages, particularly in pediatrics and obstetrics.

Funding is allocated to the Tennessee Department of Health (TDH) to support three investment goals through RAMP.

Goal 1: Rural Capital Investment

Goal 2: Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) Competitive Grant Extension Subsidiary of Goal 1

Goal 3: Rural Primary Care Seed Grants

Rural Health Transformation Program Competitive Grant Extension

Support for eligible projects aligned with Rural Health Transformation priorities that require additional funding to continue or complete implementation.

This investment goal is intended to build upon and extend successful models emerging from Tennessee's Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP).

Through this approach, TennCare Shared Savings funding may provide additional support for high-quality projects that align with RHTP priorities and demonstrate the potential to improve healthcare access and outcomes in rural communities. This strategy helps maximize the impact of innovative projects and supports continued progress toward rural healthcare transformation goals..

Friends of NRA

Friends of NRA is the National Rifle Association’s premier fundraising program, supporting the future of shooting sports. Since day one, Friends of NRA has been a 100% grassroots effort fueled by a united front to secure the Second Amendment and raise money for the shooting sports.

Committee volunteers are appointed to State Fund Committees to make recommendations for local grant funding in areas such as youth education, women-focused clinics, law enforcement training, hunter safety, range improvement, firearms and marksmanship training and safety. Recognizing the impact American youth has on the future of the shooting sports, State Fund Committees frequently recommend grants for youth programs, allocating the most significant portion of monies to this vital area.

Grant awards fund activities and support programs in the United States to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those in the shooting sports, and to educate the public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context.

Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program - Tennessee

The Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program provides supplies, equipment, and financial support to a variety of qualified groups and programs at the local level; geared towards youth, women, law enforcement, veterans, the disabled, and the general public, including:

• General shooting programs
• Competitive shooting
• Education, training and safety
• Hunting and conservation
• Community outreach
• Historical education

Grant funding must be used to further a charitable purpose as defined by the Internal Revenue Code under section 501(c)(3) and accompanying rules, regulations, and other IRS law and materials.

Tennessee Department of Economic and 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.

Tourism Enhancement Grant

Tourism is one of the largest industries and most important economic drivers in Tennessee. The purpose of this grant is to support Tourism Development projects by eligible grantees to allow for the creation or expansion of physical attractions, facilities, or events that are available and open to the public, that improve the appeal of the destinations to tourists, and that enhance tourist experiences that are primarily promoted to or used by tourists.

• Extra consideration will be given to innovative, cost-effective projects with robust partnerships. Projects must be completed within an approximate 12 -18-month timeframe. Additional requirements may apply for specific projects, depending on their nature. 

• Project must be completed on applicant-owned property, or property leased by the applicant from TVA or the US Army Corps of Engineers that has a remaining term of at least the useful life of the project.

• A few examples of projects funded previously include: stage and boat ramp improvements, seating, electrical, lighting and sound system upgrades for tourism venues and attractions, wayfinding signage to direct visitors to tourism attractions, enhancements to sports facilities that host large travel tournaments.

• You can propose multiple projects in multiple parts of the county as long as you do not request more than the maximum permitted grant amount.

• Match amount for a county is determined by tier level designation at the time of application submission. Please see the TN Jobs Tax Credit map for your designation. Tier 1: 50/50 match; Tier 2: 70/30 match; Tier 3: 90/10 match; Tier 4: 95/05 match .

Examples of Eligible Projects

• Stages such as music, theatre, etc. if used for tourism events
• Lighting/electrical for tourism-related public spaces
• Boat ramps with public access
• Historic preservation of tourism property or facility
• ADA compliancy resources for tourism assets
• Wayfinding signage (with proper approval from TDOT as needed) 

Tennessee Department of Transportation

The Department of Transportation provides citizens of Tennessee and travelers with one of the best transportation systems in the country. TDOT consistently wins awards for its projects, highway design and innovative approach to transportation.

TDOT is a multimodal agency with responsibilities in aviation, public transit, waterways, railroads and cycling and walking. Our involvement ranges from airport improvements to funding transit buses to planning for river ports.

Transportation Planning Grants

The Transportation Planning Grant (TPG) is intended to assist jurisdictions (both municipalities and counties) with transportation planning efforts that determine strategies to support improvements in traffic flow, safety, mobility, and overall efficiency of the transportation system. Since 2015, TDOT has awarded 145 planning grants across the state, many of which have resulted in implementation funding.

The TPG funds transportation plans only.

Goals of the Transportation Planning Grant

• Assist Tennessee communities with multimodal transportation planning
• Bridge the gap between land use planning and transportation planning
• Aid with the creation of planning documents that support improvements in traffic flow, safety, and overall efficiency of the transportation system
• Provide planning resources to achieve community visions that promote future economic growth

Matching

• The TPG is 80% federal, 10% state, and 10% local match
• Distressed and At-Risk Counties as determined by TNECD (and municipalities within) as of FY26 qualify for 0% local match

Planning Opportunities

Planning opportunities include, but are not limited to: Complete Streets Plans; Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plans; Transportation System Management and Operations (TSMO) Plans; Corridor Studies; Resurfacing Plans; Community Mobility Plans

We also welcome any creative and innovative transportation planning ideas.

Complete Streets Plans

A Complete Streets Plan identifies solutions to create a transportation network that considers all users. A complete street makes it easier and safer for people to walk, bike, and use public transportation, while also enhancing community aesthetics and supporting economic growth. Complete Streets Plans are developed with the specific community context in mind. See more here.

Administrative Process

Through the Transportation Planning Grant program, your community will be paired with a consultant currently under contract with TDOT that will guide you through the planning process and bring your plan to life. The community is responsible for actively participating in the plan by establishing a Steering Committee, providing the match, and ensuring local support for the proposed study recommendations.

Tennessee Department of Transportation

The Department of Transportation provides citizens of Tennessee and travelers with one of the best transportation systems in the country. TDOT consistently wins awards for its projects, highway design and innovative approach to transportation.

TDOT is a multimodal agency with responsibilities in aviation, public transit, waterways, railroads and cycling and walking. Our involvement ranges from airport improvements to funding transit buses to planning for river ports.

Transportation Planning Grants

The Transportation Planning Grant (TPG) is intended to assist jurisdictions (both municipalities and counties) with transportation planning efforts that determine strategies to support improvements in traffic flow, safety, mobility, and overall efficiency of the transportation system. Since 2015, TDOT has awarded 145 planning grants across the state, many of which have resulted in implementation funding.

The TPG funds transportation plans only.

Goals of the Transportation Planning Grant

• Assist Tennessee communities with multimodal transportation planning
• Bridge the gap between land use planning and transportation planning
• Aid with the creation of planning documents that support improvements in traffic flow, safety, and overall efficiency of the transportation system
• Provide planning resources to achieve community visions that promote future economic growth

Matching

• The TPG is 80% federal, 10% state, and 10% local match
• Distressed and At-Risk Counties as determined by TNECD (and municipalities within) as of FY26 qualify for 0% local match

Planning Opportunities

Planning opportunities include, but are not limited to: Complete Streets Plans; Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plans; Transportation System Management and Operations (TSMO) Plans; Corridor Studies; Resurfacing Plans; Community Mobility Plans

We also welcome any creative and innovative transportation planning ideas.

Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plans

A Bicycle & Pedestrian Plan can assist communities in prioritizing non-motorized transportation investments. As demand for alternative transportation options continue to grow, communities are increasingly recognizing the need for these facilities to help achieve their desirable quality of life. See more here.

Administrative Process

Through the Transportation Planning Grant program, your community will be paired with a consultant currently under contract with TDOT that will guide you through the planning process and bring your plan to life. The community is responsible for actively participating in the plan by establishing a Steering Committee, providing the match, and ensuring local support for the proposed study recommendations.

Tennessee Department of Transportation

The Department of Transportation provides citizens of Tennessee and travelers with one of the best transportation systems in the country. TDOT consistently wins awards for its projects, highway design and innovative approach to transportation.

TDOT is a multimodal agency with responsibilities in aviation, public transit, waterways, railroads and cycling and walking. Our involvement ranges from airport improvements to funding transit buses to planning for river ports.

Transportation Planning Grants

The Transportation Planning Grant (TPG) is intended to assist jurisdictions (both municipalities and counties) with transportation planning efforts that determine strategies to support improvements in traffic flow, safety, mobility, and overall efficiency of the transportation system. Since 2015, TDOT has awarded 145 planning grants across the state, many of which have resulted in implementation funding.

The TPG funds transportation plans only.

Goals of the Transportation Planning Grant

• Assist Tennessee communities with multimodal transportation planning
• Bridge the gap between land use planning and transportation planning
• Aid with the creation of planning documents that support improvements in traffic flow, safety, and overall efficiency of the transportation system
• Provide planning resources to achieve community visions that promote future economic growth

Matching

• The TPG is 80% federal, 10% state, and 10% local match
• Distressed and At-Risk Counties as determined by TNECD (and municipalities within) as of FY26 qualify for 0% local match

Planning Opportunities

Planning opportunities include, but are not limited to: Complete Streets Plans; Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plans; Transportation System Management and Operations (TSMO) Plans; Corridor Studies; Resurfacing Plans; Community Mobility Plans

We also welcome any creative and innovative transportation planning ideas.

Transportation System Management and Operations (TSMO) Plans

Transportation Systems Management & Operations (TSMO) provide a set of strategies and technologies used to optimize the performance of existing transportation infrastructure without adding more lanes. TSMO includes traffic signal retiming, traffic incident management, enhanced enforcement, ramp metering, and access management. See more here.

Administrative Process

Through the Transportation Planning Grant program, your community will be paired with a consultant currently under contract with TDOT that will guide you through the planning process and bring your plan to life. The community is responsible for actively participating in the plan by establishing a Steering Committee, providing the match, and ensuring local support for the proposed study recommendations.

Tennessee Department of Transportation

The Department of Transportation provides citizens of Tennessee and travelers with one of the best transportation systems in the country. TDOT consistently wins awards for its projects, highway design and innovative approach to transportation.

TDOT is a multimodal agency with responsibilities in aviation, public transit, waterways, railroads and cycling and walking. Our involvement ranges from airport improvements to funding transit buses to planning for river ports.

Transportation Planning Grants

The Transportation Planning Grant (TPG) is intended to assist jurisdictions (both municipalities and counties) with transportation planning efforts that determine strategies to support improvements in traffic flow, safety, mobility, and overall efficiency of the transportation system. Since 2015, TDOT has awarded 145 planning grants across the state, many of which have resulted in implementation funding.

The TPG funds transportation plans only.

Goals of the Transportation Planning Grant

• Assist Tennessee communities with multimodal transportation planning
• Bridge the gap between land use planning and transportation planning
• Aid with the creation of planning documents that support improvements in traffic flow, safety, and overall efficiency of the transportation system
• Provide planning resources to achieve community visions that promote future economic growth

Matching

• The TPG is 80% federal, 10% state, and 10% local match
• Distressed and At-Risk Counties as determined by TNECD (and municipalities within) as of FY26 qualify for 0% local match

Planning Opportunities

Planning opportunities include, but are not limited to: Complete Streets Plans; Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plans; Transportation System Management and Operations (TSMO) Plans; Corridor Studies; Resurfacing Plans; Community Mobility Plans

We also welcome any creative and innovative transportation planning ideas.

Corridor Studies

A Corridor Study examines the relationship between a roadway and its adjacent land. Corridor studies are often used to define levels of access and mobility, determine appropriate land uses, consolidate and control access points, identify operational breakdowns, promote efficiency, and encourage redevelopment of an underperforming corridor. See more here.

Administrative Process

Through the Transportation Planning Grant program, your community will be paired with a consultant currently under contract with TDOT that will guide you through the planning process and bring your plan to life. The community is responsible for actively participating in the plan by establishing a Steering Committee, providing the match, and ensuring local support for the proposed study recommendations.

Tennessee Department of Transportation

The Department of Transportation provides citizens of Tennessee and travelers with one of the best transportation systems in the country. TDOT consistently wins awards for its projects, highway design and innovative approach to transportation.

TDOT is a multimodal agency with responsibilities in aviation, public transit, waterways, railroads and cycling and walking. Our involvement ranges from airport improvements to funding transit buses to planning for river ports.

Transportation Planning Grants

The Transportation Planning Grant (TPG) is intended to assist jurisdictions (both municipalities and counties) with transportation planning efforts that determine strategies to support improvements in traffic flow, safety, mobility, and overall efficiency of the transportation system. Since 2015, TDOT has awarded 145 planning grants across the state, many of which have resulted in implementation funding.

The TPG funds transportation plans only.

Goals of the Transportation Planning Grant

• Assist Tennessee communities with multimodal transportation planning
• Bridge the gap between land use planning and transportation planning
• Aid with the creation of planning documents that support improvements in traffic flow, safety, and overall efficiency of the transportation system
• Provide planning resources to achieve community visions that promote future economic growth

Matching

• The TPG is 80% federal, 10% state, and 10% local match
• Distressed and At-Risk Counties as determined by TNECD (and municipalities within) as of FY26 qualify for 0% local match

Planning Opportunities

Planning opportunities include, but are not limited to: Complete Streets Plans; Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plans; Transportation System Management and Operations (TSMO) Plans; Corridor Studies; Resurfacing Plans; Community Mobility Plans

We also welcome any creative and innovative transportation planning ideas.

Resurfacing Plans

A Resurfacing Plan can provide communities with a data-driven approach to managing pavement-related activities. The goal of these plans is to support local road departments in maintaining the highest quality of pavement with their available funds. These plans will help support the selection of paving projects in a way that ensures the highest return on investment. See more here.

Administrative Process

Through the Transportation Planning Grant program, your community will be paired with a consultant currently under contract with TDOT that will guide you through the planning process and bring your plan to life. The community is responsible for actively participating in the plan by establishing a Steering Committee, providing the match, and ensuring local support for the proposed study recommendations.

Tennessee Department of Transportation

The Department of Transportation provides citizens of Tennessee and travelers with one of the best transportation systems in the country. TDOT consistently wins awards for its projects, highway design and innovative approach to transportation.

TDOT is a multimodal agency with responsibilities in aviation, public transit, waterways, railroads and cycling and walking. Our involvement ranges from airport improvements to funding transit buses to planning for river ports.

Transportation Planning Grants

The Transportation Planning Grant (TPG) is intended to assist jurisdictions (both municipalities and counties) with transportation planning efforts that determine strategies to support improvements in traffic flow, safety, mobility, and overall efficiency of the transportation system. Since 2015, TDOT has awarded 145 planning grants across the state, many of which have resulted in implementation funding.

The TPG funds transportation plans only.

Goals of the Transportation Planning Grant

• Assist Tennessee communities with multimodal transportation planning
• Bridge the gap between land use planning and transportation planning
• Aid with the creation of planning documents that support improvements in traffic flow, safety, and overall efficiency of the transportation system
• Provide planning resources to achieve community visions that promote future economic growth

Matching

• The TPG is 80% federal, 10% state, and 10% local match
• Distressed and At-Risk Counties as determined by TNECD (and municipalities within) as of FY26 qualify for 0% local match

Planning Opportunities

Planning opportunities include, but are not limited to: Complete Streets Plans; Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plans; Transportation System Management and Operations (TSMO) Plans; Corridor Studies; Resurfacing Plans; Community Mobility Plans

We also welcome any creative and innovative transportation planning ideas.

Community Mobility Plans

A Community Mobility Plan is a multimodal plan that identifies the existing and future transportation system, including roadways, public transportation, rail, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities. A Community Mobility Plan strengthens the connections between an area’s transportation plan, local land use plans, and community vision. See more here.

Administrative Process

Through the Transportation Planning Grant program, your community will be paired with a consultant currently under contract with TDOT that will guide you through the planning process and bring your plan to life. The community is responsible for actively participating in the plan by establishing a Steering Committee, providing the match, and ensuring local support for the proposed study recommendations.

The Coaching Enhancement Grant - Division II aims to enhance diversity in NCAA coaching by providing financial support for new assistant coaching positions. This grant specifically targets increased representation of ethnic minorities and women in athletics. Selected schools receive funding for three years to cover salaries and benefits, totaling $370,000 annually for up to 21 institutions. Eligible schools must be active NCAA Division II members committed to these diversity efforts.

The Strategic Alliance Matching Grant - Division II offers financial support to enhance ethnic minority and gender representation in mid- to senior-level athletics administration roles across NCAA Division II institutions. With an annual budget of $860,000, the grant aims to fund up to 20 schools and conferences each year. Eligible applicants must be active Division II members and are encouraged to collaborate with their human resources departments during the proposal process, ensuring compliance with grant requirements.

Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development

The mission of the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development is to work as a team to promote workforce and economic development and improve workplace safety and health throughout Tennessee.

Rural Workforce Initiatives

Rural communities in Tennessee often struggle to access quality healthcare due to factors like limited facilities, long travel distances, workforce shortages, and high costs. The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development (TDLWD) is leading efforts to address workforce shortages across various industries, with healthcare as a priority.

Rural Healthcare Initiatives Grant 

The Program's Purpose

The Rural Healthcare Initiatives grant program aims to leverage existing healthcare training structures and expand apprenticeship and Workforce Development Initiatives to strengthen the pipeline of healthcare professionals in rural communities.

Financial support will be provided to sponsoring entities to offer training, certification, and apprenticeships, while also addressing ancillary costs like transportation, childcare, and examination fees that create barriers for participants.

Where will the grant provide services?

Potential recipients must identify a desired service area in their application. Service area must be in the 91 counties outside the major metropolitan counties of Davidson, Hamilton, Knox, and Shelby. Entities located within the counties of Davidson, Hamilton, Knox, and Shelby may apply for funding if funding is utilized for programing located in one of the other 91 counties in Tennessee. The service area must identify the need for the designated training or certification of the population based on county and regional employment opportunities and needs using local/state data and Labor Market Information. The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development will consult with applicants to ensure services are offered equitably across Tennessee.

What is the total grant award amount?

Applicants will propose their desired funding amount up to a maximum of $250,000 and will use the guidance found in this document.

How will subrecipients receive funds?

This is a reimbursable grant. Recipients will be required to submit requests at least once per month with supporting documentation to be reimbursed for allowable costs. Recipients must use The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development’s grant system, SmartSimple, for submissions. 

Learn more here.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers Adult Literacy Grants to support organizations providing essential literacy services to adults. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for programs in Adult Basic Education, GED preparation, and English language acquisition. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and libraries located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store. The foundation aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster personal growth through literacy.

Tennessee Department of Health

Mission: Protect, promote, and improve the health and well-being of all people in Tennessee.

The Tennessee Department of Health's highly talented and dedicated professionals reflect a standard of performance in its effective and engaging public health efforts and collaborative commitment to providing compassionate service to people in all 95 counties of the state. TDH provides health care and wellness services daily to Tennesseans through a statewide network of 89 rural and six metropolitan county health departments at 117 physical locations.

Healthcare Resiliency Program (HRP): Service Line Expansion & Co-Location

Expands integrated primary, specialty, behavioral, and diagnostic services in sustainable rural models.

The program aims to improve access and quality of health services for rural Tennesseans by facilitating service integration, care collaboration, and sustainability through digital models and value-based care, with emphasis on perinatal, behavioral health, emergency, pediatric, and chronic care coordination services.

Funding may be used for:

• Evidence-based prevention and chronic disease programs
• Behavioral health and substance use treatment
• Rural workforce recruitment and retention
• Training on emerging care technologies
• Telehealth and digital infrastructure improvements
• Innovative care delivery models

Benefits to Rural Tennessee

RHT funding will help Tennessee:

• Strengthen rural hospitals and prevent closures
• Expand access to maternal, behavioral, and chronic care services
• Improve workforce stability in underserved areas
• Modernize rural healthcare technology
• Support innovative care models that improve outcomes

Reimbursement Structure

This is a reimbursement-based grant program:

• Sub-recipients pay costs upfront
• Submit required documentation
• Receive reimbursement after approval

Administrative & Indirect Costs

• Subawardees must follow Tennessee’s approved indirect cost rates
• Administrative costs are capped at 10%

Department of Finance & Administration

The Department of Finance & Administration (F&A) is the state’s chief corporate office, playing a crucial role in the governance and operational efficiency of the State of Tennessee.

Our Mission is leading through great business and exceptional customer service.

Regional Digital Forensic Collaboration (RDFC) Grant

Program Purpose

This funding is intended to expand access to training, software, and equipment that will enable small and medium-sized law enforcement agencies to conduct forensic examinations of digital forensic evidence efficiently and effectively. The project will enhance local capacity for investigating and prosecuting violent crimes by supporting the technical resources and expertise needed to process digital evidence in a timely and reliable manner.

As technology expands and increases, the collection, processing, and analysis of digital forensic evidence has become increasingly critical in reducing violent crime. Through the Regional Digital Forensic Collaboration (RDFC) grant program, the Office of Criminal Justice Programs (OCJP) has allocated funding to expand access to digital forensic investigative software, hardware, training, and technical expertise for local law enforcement agencies. This allocated funding will support the collection, processing, and analysis of digital forensic evidence through two project types:

• Project Type A – Regional Digital Forensic Collaboration
• Project Type B – Regional Digital Forensic Collaboration - Technical Assistance Provider

Successful applicants will be able to demonstrate in their proposal a clear forward-looking vision for establishing a regional collaboration focused on training, planning, and the deployment of centralized, accessible digital forensic investigative software and equipment. 

Geographic Priority

The State's goal is to establish a network of Regional Digital Forensic Collaborations that provides geographic coverage across Tennessee, with at least one State-funded regional collaboration serving each of Tennessee's three Grand Divisions: East, Middle, and West Tennessee.

• In making funding decisions, the State may give priority to qualified applications that advance this goal, particularly applications proposing to serve areas of the state that do not currently have reasonable access to an existing State-funded Regional Digital Forensic Collaboration.

Project Type A – Regional Digital Forensic Collaboration

Formal planning, training, and ongoing collaboration among multiple regional law enforcement partners within a secure, accessible shared physical space dedicated to storing and processing digital forensic evidence. Additional space for ongoing training and mentoring is an additional priority.

The Scarlett Family Foundation Grant aims to provide college scholarships and support educational initiatives in Middle Tennessee. Established in 2006 by Joe and Dorothy Scarlett, the foundation focuses on key areas such as career readiness, teacher leadership, and literacy. With over $23 million awarded in scholarships, it has helped more than 870 students achieve their educational goals. The foundation partners with local non-profits to enhance educational access and promote academic success for students in the community.

The SESAPS Francis Slack Award, established by the Southeastern Section of the American Physical Society, honors individuals who have selflessly contributed to advancing physics in the Southeast. It recognizes efforts in enhancing research facilities, strengthening academic departments, and fostering regional physics organizations. Nominations remain active for three years, with a focus on encouraging women and minority candidates. This prestigious award commemorates the legacy of Francis G. Slack, a pivotal figure in the development of the Southeastern Section.

The JFNY Grant for Arts & Cultural Exchange supports U.S. non-profit organizations aiming to enhance understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Eligible projects include performances, workshops, and exhibitions, with priority given to those with additional funding and in areas with limited access to cultural events. Applications must be submitted at least one month prior for online projects and three months for others. The grant covers expenses like travel, publicity, and artist fees, and is reimbursed upon project completion.

The Rural Business Development Grants in Tennessee aim to support small rural businesses by providing essential technical assistance and training. With no maximum grant amount, priority is given to smaller requests, which can be used for various projects like training, land development, and community economic development. Eligible applicants include rural public entities and nonprofits, focusing on enhancing economic opportunities in rural areas. This program helps foster growth and sustainability for small businesses, benefiting the local economy.

Simmons First Foundation: Environmental Grant

Amount:

• $2,500 up to $25,000

These funds are to be used for conservation and/or environmental purposes. We prefer the projects support the overall theme of youth (K-12) in the fields of education or health care, however, we do have flexibility on projects that will have an indirect impact on youth. Categories for this grant include, but not limited to: water, air, hunting/fishing, forestry, outdoor education, energy, etc.

The Charles B. Keesee Educational Fund Scholarship offers financial support for students pursuing eligible Master's and Doctoral degrees at various Baptist seminaries. Grants range from $3,100 to $8,800 annually, depending on the program and applicant status. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and residents of specific states, have a minimum GPA of 2.5, and demonstrate intent to enter Baptist ministry. This fund has assisted thousands of students since its establishment in 1941.

Simmons First Foundation: Make a Difference Grant

Amount:

• $2,500 up to $50,000

For the upcoming grant cycle, funding will be limited to programs focused on:Special Education:  K-12 Youth with disabilities, including physical disabilities, developmental and cognitive disabilities, and sensory impairments.   (examples including):

• Inclusive theater and performing arts programs
• Adapted, hands-on STEM learning
• Accessible coding, robotics, and maker-space activities
• Science-based learning adapted for diverse abilities
• Assistive technology and adaptive learning tools
• Adaptive physical education and recreation programs

Substance Abuse and Violence Prevention:  K-12 Youth (examples including):

• Evidence-based prevention programs targeting alcohol, opioids, vaping, and other substance use
• Skill-building programs that focus on refusal skills, decision making, coping strategies, and peer pressure resistanc
• Early intervention programs for at-risk youth
• Recovery support services for youth in early recovery (including peer support groups, mentoring, and relapse prevention planning)
• Youth-focused programs that teach emotional regulation, anger management, and non-violent communication
• Intervention programs for youth exposed to or at risk of violence
• Peer mediation and restorative justice programs that reduce disciplinary incidents and promote accountability

The NCAA Division II Degree Completion Award provides financial assistance to student-athletes who have exhausted their athletics eligibility, enabling them to complete their first undergraduate degree. Since its inception in 2001, nearly $9 million has supported approximately 1,875 athletes, with a remarkable 90 percent graduation rate among recipients. The award covers tuition costs up to $15,000 for remaining credits and may be used in the summer term or short terms surrounding the final undergraduate year.

The Josh Turner Scholarship Fund for the Arts, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, empowers high school seniors from rural areas across ten southern states to pursue careers in music and the arts. This fund honors Josh Turner's journey in the music industry and aims to support students focusing on diverse opportunities within the music business, including performance, writing, and production, as well as various art disciplines.

Simmons First Foundation: Mini Grant

Amount:

• $1,000 up to $2,500 
•  Projects must pertain to youth (K-12) in the fields of education or health care. Mini Grants are for immediate (long-term) needs for programs and entities must be a 501c3 organization.

The Gridiron Veterans Scholarship, provided by the Bob Woodruff Foundation, offers essential financial support for military veterans and first responders. This initiative focuses on wellness, rehabilitation, and recovery programs, ensuring participants can access mental health services, physical therapy, and holistic resources. The foundation prioritizes those facing emotional and physical challenges, empowering them to overcome barriers and improve their quality of life through customized, evidence-based support.