Best Grants for the Arts in Tennessee

Arts and culture nonprofits in Tennessee can access funding for arts programming, cultural opportunities, public art, and community improvement projects that enrich quality of life. Grants from James Avery Charitable Foundation help eligible 501(c)(3) organizations within 50 miles of a James Avery location with US $10,000 - US $25,000 for community-focused programs.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Tennessee working in arts, culture, education, environment, or healthy and vibrant communities can seek project support from the Cleveland Cliffs Foundation. Focused on education, environmental stewardship, and community well-being, the foundation invites programs in Cleveland-Cliffs operating communities, so arts organizations with qualifying community or educational initiatives may be eligible.

Arts and culture nonprofits in Tennessee can access funding for events, programs, or in-kind support that enrich community life, with awards of more than US $10,000. Grants from James Avery Charitable Foundation help organizations near company retail locations advance arts programming, cultural opportunities, community improvement, and related education and wellness initiatives.

Early-career LGBTQ+ performance artists in Tennessee and other eligible states can receive support for new avant-garde performance work. Franklin Furnace Fund provides US $5,000 to non-student, generative artists focused on creating original pieces, offering a dedicated XENO Prize for those working in states with restrictions on gender-affirming care.

Tennessee 501(c)(3) arts and culture organizations can seek project-specific funding for performances, programs, or publications through the Arthur F and Alice E Adams Supporting Foundation, with awards up to US $50,000. Priority is given to projects in the Memphis area, and proposals must be scheduled to start after February 15, 2027.

Tennessee arts and culture nonprofits, schools, and youth-serving 501(c)(3) organizations can access funding through the Mooneyhan Family Foundation to support community-strengthening education and cultural enrichment programs, with awards up to US $30,000. Eligible projects include literacy initiatives, youth development, and efforts that increase appreciation for the arts and local cultural or historic heritage.

Rural Tennessee hospitals or partnered 501(c)(3) or local government organizations can apply for Tennessee Arts Commission’s Tennessee Arts & Rural Health Initiative, offering up to US $25,000 for arts-based health and wellness programming. Funding supports projects like murals, meditation gardens, exhibitions, and artist-led classes that integrate the arts into patient, family, and staff care.

Local governments and 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organizations in rural Tennessee can apply for Tennessee Arts Commission’s Rural Arts Facilities Fund, with awards up to US $200,000 for building, renovating, or expanding arts and cultural facilities. Eligible projects include design plans, technology and equipment upgrades, accessibility improvements, and stage enhancements that support ongoing arts programming.

Tennessee local government entities and 501(c)(3) nonprofits can access funding to use arts and culture for community revitalization and placemaking projects in Tennessee. Tennessee Arts Commission provides US $3,000 - US $30,000 for initiatives that enhance the physical and social character of neighborhoods, downtowns, parks, and other community spaces through creative arts-based strategies.

Tennessee arts nonprofits and public arts councils with at least three years of Commission partnership funding and over $1 million in annual revenue can receive operating support for year-round arts programming in Tennessee. Tennessee Arts Commission’s Major Cultural Institutions Grant offers up to US $200,000 for eligible operating expenses such as salaries, professional fees, occupancy, and other non-personnel costs.

Arts and culture nonprofits in Tennessee can seek funding for community arts programs, cultural institutions, and youth involvement in the arts that also advance economic and workforce development or housing stability. Grants from US Bancorp Foundation support 501(c)(3) partners, with priority for organizations led by people of color and serving designated U.S. Bank communities.

Established arts organizations and local arts councils in Tennessee can apply for Tennessee Arts Commission’s Partnership Support Grant; awards up to US $100,000 for general operating expenses. Eligible applicants must be Tennessee-chartered, arts-focused 501(c)(3) organizations or public arts councils with significant year-round programming and a minimum budget of $75,000.

Nonprofit agencies in Tennessee that directly serve clients with arts, culture, science, medical, or social service programs can seek project-specific support through the Akima Grant Program. With a mission to be a friend to the community, Akima Club provides funding to diverse 501(c)(3) organizations, typically within Knox County and the broader 865 area code.

Tennessee 501(c)(3) nonprofits planning arts and cultural projects that deepen understanding of Japanese arts and culture can access funding through Japan Foundation New York. Grants up to US $5,000 reimburse eligible costs like artist honoraria, travel, shipping, publicity, and online project expenses for performances, exhibitions, film screenings, workshops, and virtual cultural exchange activities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Tennessee can seek funding for local safety, community vitality, environmental sustainability, and workforce development projects that primarily benefit communities served by Union Pacific. Union Pacific Foundation supports arts and cultural programming, youth development, basic needs, outdoor recreation, and related initiatives with US $5,000 - US $30,000 Local Grants.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations pursuing arts, culture, education, or related capital projects can seek support for work in Tennessee and other eligible nearby states. The David, Helen, and Marian Woodward Fund prioritizes capital improvements and educational programs that demonstrate enhanced graduation rates, with a historic preference for institutions in Georgia.

The AFI Grant, administered by the Adient Foundation, Inc., supports charitable organizations across the U.S. with a focus on philanthropic efforts. These one-time grants do not guarantee future funding, emphasizing a need for organizations to demonstrate sound management and community impact. Each year, past recipients must reapply under the standard application process, ensuring that support aligns with equal opportunity objectives and the Foundation's mission to complement public funding.

Arts and culture nonprofits and local governments can access funding through the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians for charitable projects in education, health, arts, environment, housing, public safety, and related areas. Eligible applicants include organizations in select Oregon counties and Native American organizations across the U.S., which may benefit Tennessee-focused Native arts initiatives with a qualifying U.S. base.

The Eugenie Coladarci Arts Scholarship, offered by Morris Arts, awards $1,500 to graduating high school seniors in New Jersey who demonstrate artistic excellence in various disciplines such as dance, drama, visual arts, or music. Applicants are evaluated by a panel of experts based on their work samples, essays, and dedication to the arts. The scholarship directly supports tuition at the chosen college or arts program, continuing the legacy of Eugenie R. Coladarci, a passionate advocate for young artists.

The Elaine Ehlers Arts Scholarship, established in 2002, offers $5,000 to graduating high school seniors in New Jersey who demonstrate artistic excellence in various disciplines such as dance, drama, visual arts, or music. The scholarship is awarded based on a panel's evaluation of work samples and character. This initiative honors Elaine Ehlers' legacy, promoting arts education and supporting students pursuing their creative passions at accredited institutions.

Ingram Charities Grant supports nonprofit organizations and programs that enhance the quality of life in Nashville, focusing on arts, education, and health services. Grants are available for initiatives making a significant impact in Middle Tennessee. However, funding is not provided for individuals, private foundations, political activities, or religious organizations, among others. This grant aims to foster community development and enrich the lives of residents through meaningful contributions.

The Horizon Bank Community Grant Program aims to enhance local communities by funding initiatives in education, arts, and economic development. With grants starting at $5,000, the program supports 501(c)(3) organizations addressing housing needs for low- to moderate-income families. Applications are accepted annually, with a strong emphasis on corporate citizenship and community involvement. However, grants are not available for political activities or organizations that discriminate. This commitment reflects Horizon Bank's dedication to fostering community growth and responsibility.

The Marlene and Spencer Hays Foundation Grants support tax-exempt organizations working to enhance lives through arts, healthcare, education, and youth programs. The foundation requires a Letter of Intent (LOI) from all applicants, emphasizing its mission to select grant recipients who align with its values. Grants are not available for political purposes, endowment campaigns, or organizations that discriminate based on race, gender, or religion. This framework ensures a focused impact on community betterment.

The H. Hovnanian Family Foundation Grant supports the Armenian community in Armenia and the U.S., focusing on Monmouth and Ocean Counties, New Jersey. The Foundation prioritizes education, healthcare, arts, and youth development through grants to registered non-profits. Proposals should demonstrate sustainability and community impact, with favorable consideration given to projects that engage local stakeholders and foster collaboration. Applications are accepted year-round, with a maximum funding limit of $10,000 for operational expenses.

The Strategic Projects: Capital Grants by the M J Murdock Charitable Trust offer vital funding opportunities for nonprofit organizations in the Pacific Northwest. These grants support transformative projects that enhance community well-being through construction, renovation, and infrastructure investments. Eligible entities include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities. The Trust emphasizes projects that demonstrate strong community impact and funding diversification, ensuring sustainable growth and lasting benefits for the communities served.

The M J Murdock Charitable Trust offers Strategic Projects: Equipment & Technology Grants to nonprofits in the Pacific Northwest. These grants focus on capacity-building projects and essential equipment, requiring recipients to cover at least 50% of costs. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and tribal entities. Priority is given to projects enhancing community services, education, and environmental stewardship, supporting initiatives that foster human flourishing and demonstrate diversified funding.

The MMUF Advancement Program offers Adjunct Faculty Fellowships designed for alumni of the Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship. These fellowships provide essential resources and time to focus on research and scholarship, aiding individuals in securing tenure-track positions. Each fellow receives a $10,000 stipend, a six-month award period, a mentor, and funding to attend a conference. This initiative supports diverse perspectives in higher education, fostering an inclusive academic environment.