Best Grants for Museums in Tennessee

Tennessee NCAA Division III member institutions seeking to create new assistant coaching positions that enhance ethnic minority and gender representation can apply for this coaching enhancement grant. National Collegiate Athletic Association provides Division III schools with two years of salary, wage, and benefit support for a new assistant coach, with an institutional match required.

Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation

The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) exists to enhance the quality of life for citizens of Tennessee and to be stewards of our natural environment by:

• Protecting and improving the quality of Tennessee’s air, land, and water through a responsible regulatory system
• Protecting and promoting human health and safety
• Conserving and promoting natural, cultural and historic resources
• Providing a variety of quality outdoor recreational experiences

Brownfield Redevelopment Area Grant (BRAG)

Program Purpose and Authority

In 2023, the Tennessee General Assembly authorized TDEC to establish the Brownfield Redevelopment Area Fund, enabling a state-administered brownfield grant program to support the identification, investigation, planning, and remediation of brownfield sites.

Program Objectives and Priorities

• Facilitate identification and cleanup of brownfield sites.
• Encourage economic and community redevelopment through reuse.
• Support environmentally sound remediation.
• Promote balanced access to funding statewide.

Project Categories

To support BRAG’s purpose of supporting identification, assessment, or remediation activities, TDEC will award grants for the identification, planning, assessment, remediation and closure of brownfield sites across the state.

Identification Grants

Inventory of brownfield sites across multiple locations. Contract Term: 12 months

Allowable Activities

The following is a list of allowable actions under an identification grant. Other expenses may be allowable but would require prior approval by TDEC.

• Developing or updating an inventory of previously unidentified brownfield sites within a grantee community (brownfield redevelopment area). In preparing a brownfield inventory, the inventory shall include, to the extent easily ascertainable: an assessment of the contaminants known or suspected to have been discharged or that are currently stored on the site; the extent of any remediation performed on the site; the site's proximity to transportation networks; and the availability of infrastructure to support the redevelopment of the site.

• The following information gathered for the inventory shall be submitted to TDEC: the location and size of the brownfield property; current and anticipated uses of the property; known data about the environmental conditions or past uses of the property; and ownership of the property.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant opportunity for schools across the US to implement the PLTW Gateway program for the first time. With total funding of $9,100, the grant covers participation fees and training registration costs. Schools, including public, private, and charter, are encouraged to apply, particularly those serving low-income and minority majority populations. This initiative aims to enhance educational pathways in STEM for diverse student groups.

Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation

The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) exists to enhance the quality of life for citizens of Tennessee and to be stewards of our natural environment by:

• Protecting and improving the quality of Tennessee’s air, land, and water through a responsible regulatory system
• Protecting and promoting human health and safety
• Conserving and promoting natural, cultural and historic resources
• Providing a variety of quality outdoor recreational experiences

Brownfield Redevelopment Area Grant (BRAG)

Program Purpose and Authority

In 2023, the Tennessee General Assembly authorized TDEC to establish the Brownfield Redevelopment Area Fund, enabling a state-administered brownfield grant program to support the identification, investigation, planning, and remediation of brownfield sites.

Program Objectives and Priorities

• Facilitate identification and cleanup of brownfield sites.
• Encourage economic and community redevelopment through reuse.
• Support environmentally sound remediation.
• Promote balanced access to funding statewide.

Project Categories

To support BRAG’s purpose of supporting identification, assessment, or remediation activities, TDEC will award grants for the identification, planning, assessment, remediation and closure of brownfield sites across the state.

Planning Grants

Activities preparing for redevelopment of sites. Developing an actionable plan for addressing a single or group of brownfields within a community. Contract Term: 12 months

Allowable Activities

The following is a list of allowable actions under a planning grant. Other expenses may be allowable but would require prior approval by TDEC.

• Conduct planning around one or more brownfield: initiate site revitalization and prepare for site redevelopment
• Conduct site-specific cleanup and redevelopment planning: identify a scope and process plan
• Conduct community involvement on brownfield redevelopment: inform and engage the community on site redevelopment goals

Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation

The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) exists to enhance the quality of life for citizens of Tennessee and to be stewards of our natural environment by:

• Protecting and improving the quality of Tennessee’s air, land, and water through a responsible regulatory system
• Protecting and promoting human health and safety
• Conserving and promoting natural, cultural and historic resources
• Providing a variety of quality outdoor recreational experiences

Brownfield Redevelopment Area Grant (BRAG)

Program Purpose and Authority

In 2023, the Tennessee General Assembly authorized TDEC to establish the Brownfield Redevelopment Area Fund, enabling a state-administered brownfield grant program to support the identification, investigation, planning, and remediation of brownfield sites.

Program Objectives and Priorities

• Facilitate identification and cleanup of brownfield sites.
• Encourage economic and community redevelopment through reuse.
• Support environmentally sound remediation.
• Promote balanced access to funding statewide.

Project Categories

To support BRAG’s purpose of supporting identification, assessment, or remediation activities, TDEC will award grants for the identification, planning, assessment, remediation and closure of brownfield sites across the state.

Assessment Grants

Environmental site assessments under ASTM standards. Conducting a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA), conducted in accordance with the current ASTM E-1527 standard, a Phase II Environmental Site Assessment conducted in accordance with the current ASTM E1903 standard, or other relevant environmental investigations.

Contract Term: 24 months

Allowable Activities

The following is a list of allowable actions under an Assessment grant. Other expenses may be allowable but would require prior approval by TDEC.

• Preparing a Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessment(s) document(s).
• Preparing an Analysis of Brownfields Cleanup Alternatives (ABCA).
• Site assessment and characterization of the project site.

Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation

The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) exists to enhance the quality of life for citizens of Tennessee and to be stewards of our natural environment by:

• Protecting and improving the quality of Tennessee’s air, land, and water through a responsible regulatory system
• Protecting and promoting human health and safety
• Conserving and promoting natural, cultural and historic resources
• Providing a variety of quality outdoor recreational experiences

Brownfield Redevelopment Area Grant (BRAG)

Program Purpose and Authority

In 2023, the Tennessee General Assembly authorized TDEC to establish the Brownfield Redevelopment Area Fund, enabling a state-administered brownfield grant program to support the identification, investigation, planning, and remediation of brownfield sites.

Program Objectives and Priorities

• Facilitate identification and cleanup of brownfield sites.
• Encourage economic and community redevelopment through reuse.
• Support environmentally sound remediation.
• Promote balanced access to funding statewide.

Project Categories

To support BRAG’s purpose of supporting identification, assessment, or remediation activities, TDEC will award grants for the identification, planning, assessment, remediation and closure of brownfield sites across the state.

Remediation Grants

Actions to contain, remove, mitigate, or dispose of hazardous substances, pollutants, other contaminants, or petroleum products, at a brownfield site. This may include certain types of demolition performed at a brownfield and the installation or upgrade of the minimum amount of infrastructure that is necessary to make a brownfield property usable.

Contract Term: 24 months

Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation

The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) exists to enhance the quality of life for citizens of Tennessee and to be stewards of our natural environment by:

• Protecting and improving the quality of Tennessee’s air, land, and water through a responsible regulatory system
• Protecting and promoting human health and safety
• Conserving and promoting natural, cultural and historic resources
• Providing a variety of quality outdoor recreational experiences

Brownfield Redevelopment Area Grant (BRAG)

Program Purpose and Authority

In 2023, the Tennessee General Assembly authorized TDEC to establish the Brownfield Redevelopment Area Fund, enabling a state-administered brownfield grant program to support the identification, investigation, planning, and remediation of brownfield sites.

Program Objectives and Priorities

• Facilitate identification and cleanup of brownfield sites.
• Encourage economic and community redevelopment through reuse.
• Support environmentally sound remediation.
• Promote balanced access to funding statewide.

Project Categories

To support BRAG’s purpose of supporting identification, assessment, or remediation activities, TDEC will award grants for the identification, planning, assessment, remediation and closure of brownfield sites across the state.

Remedial Closure Grants

Post-remedial monitoring to achieve NFA or NLUR letters. 

Contract Term: 24 months

Program Objectives and Priorities

The following is a list of allowable actions under a remedial closure grant. Other expenses may be allowable but would require prior approval by TDEC.

• Conduct final monitoring and other assessments necessary to close the site with TDEC.

The Dollar General School Library Relief Grant Program, managed by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, provides crucial support to K-12 public school libraries that face significant damage due to disasters such as fires or federally recognized acts of terrorism. This grant aims to restore essential library resources, ensuring that affected communities can continue to access vital educational materials and support. Libraries must be within 15 miles of a Dollar General store and meet specific eligibility criteria.

This project aims to combat the rapid spread of invasive climbing plants in the southeastern U.S. and Caribbean by creating a comprehensive database on species traits and disturbance locations. The database will enhance understanding of vine expansion and provide predictive maps for future spread, assisting managers in identifying vulnerable areas. This initiative aligns with federal priorities for natural resource stewardship and aims to strengthen community resilience against biological threats.

The Reverend Lonnie and Patricia Gable, Jr. Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, supports children of full-time Christian ministry workers who struggle with college expenses. This initiative honors Rev. Lonnie Gable Jr. and his wife Patricia, who made significant sacrifices for their faith and community. The fund aims to provide educational opportunities for those whose families serve in ministry, particularly benefiting students interested in engineering and related fields.

The William and Helen Thomas Charitable Trust provides funding to nonprofit organizations focused on education, environmental protection, medical research, and support for the underprivileged. This trust, based in Florida, primarily serves communities in Palm Beach, Martin, and St. Lucie Counties, along with select areas in Appalachia. It seeks to assist public charities classified under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, ensuring support for impactful charitable initiatives.

The Ethnic Minorities and Women’s Internship Grant supports entry-level athletics administrative positions for one academic year, promoting diversity in NCAA Division II. It provides $30,000 for intern salaries and $3,000 for professional development, benefiting six schools annually from a total budget of $180,000. Eligible applicants must be active NCAA members, with a focus on enhancing ethnic minority and gender representation in athletics administration. This initiative encourages professional growth and compliance in diverse environments.

The Queer Mobilization Fund (QMF) supports community-led projects that advance Queer and Trans liberation, particularly for BIPOC individuals in the Southeastern US. Established in 2016, QMF prioritizes grassroots organizations with budgets under $300,000. The fund emphasizes rapid response funding and capacity building, aiming to empower marginalized communities often excluded from financial support. QMF does not fund groups outside the Southeast or for-profit activities, ensuring resources are directed towards those leading efforts for LGBTQ+ rights.

The Shoot For The Future Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, honors individuals with spinal cord injuries who have shown resilience and determination. This fund aims to support Tennessee residents or students attending colleges in the state, helping them overcome challenges and achieve educational goals. With a focus on enhancing quality of life and promoting career development, this scholarship is renewable, providing ongoing support to eligible candidates.

The South Arts Southern Prize provides a unique opportunity for individual artists in the Southern region of the U.S. to showcase their scriptwriting talents. With a total of $35,000 in grants available, including a $25,000 Southern Prize and a $10,000 runner-up prize, this program supports artistic excellence and offers a two-week residency at The Hambidge Center. Eligible applicants must be legal residents of the Southern states and adhere to specific requirements. The program celebrates the rich cultural diversity of the American South.

The South Arts State Fellowship offers a $5,000 grant to artists reflecting the rich visual arts culture of the Southern U.S. It aims to support individual artists or collaborative teams creating original works. Each state will select one awardee based on artistic excellence. Applicants must be legal U.S. residents and provide proof of residency. The application deadline is December 10, 2025, and awardees must attend an awards ceremony in summer 2026.

Catholic Extension provides essential funding to support the construction, expansion, or renovation of churches and community facilities. This initiative aims to meet the facility needs of under-resourced Catholic dioceses across the U.S. By focusing on active projects, Catholic Extension ensures that communities can enhance their worship spaces and support local ministries, ultimately fostering a stronger church community. Funding is available for both minor and major requests, with an emphasis on urgent needs and robust funding strategies.

The Building Foundation Grants by Catholic Extension aim to support essential pastoral and administrative functions in under-resourced communities. These grants provide salary subsidies and operational funding to ordained, religious, and lay ministers, ensuring access to Catholic services. Prioritizing areas with significant financial need, this initiative seeks to sustain the church's presence where it is most critical, enabling continued ministry and outreach for those who may otherwise be underserved.

The Building Leaders Grants by Catholic Extension aim to enhance the recruitment, education, and ongoing formation of church leaders. This initiative provides critical funding for the professional development of both ordained and lay leaders in mission dioceses. By fostering partnerships with various organizations, it addresses the need for trained ministers and supports various funding areas, including seminarian sponsorship and diaconate formation, ensuring a robust future for church leadership.

The Engaging Young Catholics Grants aim to support ministries that provide faith formation to children, teens, young adults, and families. By focusing on the pastoral needs of young Catholics, the program enhances community vibrancy and fosters new leadership within the church. Catholic Extension prioritizes operational support and seed funding for initiatives that develop youth and young adult ministries, ensuring that dioceses can effectively reach and engage younger generations in their faith.

The Building Capacity Grants by Catholic Extension aim to enhance the financial and operational capabilities of dioceses. This initiative focuses on funding projects that promote efficiency, financial stability, and effective fiscal management, ultimately fostering a self-sustaining community. Eligible programs include fundraising development initiatives and operational assessments, ensuring resources are utilized efficiently while supporting professional development for church leadership. This grant empowers dioceses to strengthen their foundations for future growth.

Catholic Extension's Enhancing Pastoral and Social Ministry Grants aim to empower the church to broaden its outreach and foster societal transformation through targeted pastoral and social initiatives. This program supports specific elements of the church's ministerial efforts, including funding for catechetical resources, marriage and family ministries, and social outreach for vulnerable populations. By investing in these areas, Catholic Extension seeks to enhance the church's role in communities, especially following disasters.

The Catholic School Leadership Development Grant Program aims to cultivate and retain promising leaders within the Catholic school system. In partnership with Loyola Marymount University, this initiative offers a graduate-level online Certificate in Catholic School Administration, covering 80% of tuition costs and providing funding for essential travel. The one-year program focuses on mission effectiveness, operational management, and instructional leadership, requiring participants to serve two years in their diocese post-completion, thereby enhancing local educational leadership.

The Francis Grants, established by Catholic Extension, offer funding for significant events in poor mission dioceses, such as the ordination of new Bishops, anniversaries, or papal visits. These grants also support educational endeavors for Bishops. Named in honor of Francis Clement Kelly, Francis Cardinal George OMI, and Pope Francis, the program aims to strengthen the Catholic faith across the U.S. Since 1905, Catholic Extension has invested over $500 million to assist communities in need.

The Arthur F. and Alice E. Adams Charitable Foundation, established in 1985, supports various charitable initiatives focusing on arts, culture, humanities, and education. It primarily benefits organizations in Memphis, Miami, and New York City. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) exempt organizations and seek project sponsorships. The foundation does not fund general operating costs or capital campaigns, and requests over $50,000 are generally discouraged. Proposals must be for projects commencing at least a year after submission.

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.

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 B – Regional Digital Forensic Collaboration - Technical Assistance Provider

Technical assistance to provide specialized training, support, and expert guidance to facilitate the planning and implementation of Regional Digital Forensic Collaborations.