Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in Tennessee

Agricultural producers, forest landowners, Tribes, and water management entities in Tennessee can receive technical and financial help to implement conservation practices on working lands. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service supports projects that improve water and air quality, soil health, wildlife habitat, and climate resilience through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program and related initiatives.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) and 509(a) organizations in the greater Chicago area can seek US $2,000 - US $10,000 for education, human services, conservation, health, or cultural programs, including operating, project, or occasional capital support. Focused on broad community needs, McGraw Foundation invites nonprofits whose work may resemble Tennessee organizations’ priorities to apply when invitations are open.

Graduate students in Tennessee researching drinking water quality, environmental science, or public health can receive scholarship support for actionable, industry-relevant research. With a mission to support future water professionals, American Water Works Association provides this US $3,000 Dr. Philip C. Singer Scholarship to advance solutions to current water industry challenges.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Tennessee working on economic and workforce advancement, affordable housing, or community arts and culture may be eligible for funding that supports programs in work, home, and play. US Bancorp Foundation prioritizes organizations led by people of color and those advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in designated U.S. Bank communities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Tennessee can seek US $5,000 - US $30,000 for safety, workforce development, community vitality, and environmental sustainability projects benefiting communities served by Union Pacific. Union Pacific Foundation supports programmatic and capacity-building efforts, especially those advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion for underrepresented populations across its local operating areas.

Tennessee nonprofits providing homelessness and housing stability services in Tennessee can access funding through the Tennessee Housing Development Agency’s Emergency Solutions Grant program, with awards from US $35,000 - US $125,000. Grants support rapid re-housing, emergency shelter, supportive housing, and related services that help people experiencing or at risk of homelessness quickly regain stable, permanent housing.

Tennessee nonprofit organizations addressing humanitarian aid, child welfare, health care, or disaster relief can access funding through Father's Table Foundation to expand or create programs that build long-term self-sufficiency for women and children. U.S.-based groups with a strong service record, including those working on homelessness, education, food security, microfinance, or anti-trafficking, may be eligible for awards up to US $750,000.

Undergraduate-focused higher education institutions in Tennessee seeking support for small-scale biomedical research can apply for Academic Research Enhancement Awards, with awards up to US $375,000. Grants from the National Institutes of Health help colleges build research capacity and provide hands-on experiences in areas like public health, neuroscience, genetics, cancer, HIV/AIDS, and related biomedical fields.

Focused on education, environment, and healthy communities, 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Tennessee can apply for Cleveland Cliffs Foundation grants to support programs in these areas. Eligible projects must be implemented in communities where Cleveland-Cliffs operates and may include STEM education, workforce readiness, environmental restoration, or community health and revitalization initiatives.

Early-career medical and health researchers at academic or research institutions in Tennessee and other eligible low- and middle-income countries can receive approximately US $140,000 to support mentored clinical research and career development. The NIH Fogarty Emerging Global Leader Award provides three to five years of protected time to build an independent research career.

Nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status serving Montgomery County, Tennessee in areas like education, health, human services, environment, or community development can be nominated for the Best Life Community Awards, offering US $2,500 - US $10,000. Eligible Altra Federal Credit Union members submit nominations based on their recent personal support and involvement.

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.

Early-career health researchers at academic or research institutions in eligible low- or middle-income countries can secure approximately US $140,000 to support mentored global health research and career development, including collaborators in Tennessee. Grants from US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH) fund three- to five-year projects across diverse health-related disciplines.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Tennessee seeking support for education, youth programs, arts, community initiatives, or related services can apply for grants of US $5,000 - US $20,000. John Ben Snow Memorial Trust prioritizes educational opportunities for disadvantaged or high-need populations, including tutoring, literacy, scholarships, mentoring, after-school programs, and community quality-of-life projects.

Nonprofit and healthcare organizations hosting Tennessee medical or scientific congresses, educational events, or initiatives can seek corporate sponsorship that offers Biogen Foundation exhibit space, branding, or other marketing benefits. Biogen supports programs across neurology, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, ALS, and related disease areas; requests are reviewed on a rolling basis and must be submitted well in advance.

Tennessee 501(c) and 170(c) organizations working in economic and community development, education and workforce readiness, financial wellness, arts and culture, veterans, or disability services can benefit from this employee matching-gift program. Focused on strengthening community prosperity, Regions Bank invites eligible nonprofits supported by its full-time associates or recent retirees to receive matched charitable contributions.

Tennessee nonprofits working in economic development, education, financial wellness, arts and culture, disability services, or support for service members and veterans can access funding through Regions Bank’s Matching Gifts Program for recent retirees. Eligible 501(c) or 170(c) organizations may receive up to US $1,000 per retiree in matched donations from Regions’ recent retirees.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Tennessee working on environmental conservation, sustainable agriculture, or healthy food access can seek US $5,000 - US $50,000 for general operating support. Clif Family Foundation supports grassroots groups, prioritizing U.S.-focused, community-rooted efforts that advance regenerative farming, climate justice, pollution prevention, and inclusive outdoor access.

Nonprofit organizations running STEM education, economic opportunity, digital access, sustainability, health, or arts programs near eligible Google data centers, including parts of Tennessee, can apply for this funding. Focused on measurable community benefit, Meta invites nonprofits to propose innovative, partnership-driven projects, with awards starting at More than US $5,000.

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.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in the Nashville area seeking major capacity-building, capital, or impact-expansion support for education, healthcare, or community and social services may be eligible for this one-time award. Grants from Joe C Davis Foundation help Tennessee nonprofits with strong track records and financial stability undertake transformational projects.

The Soil and Water Stewardship Scholarship, sponsored by the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois, provides financial support to students pursuing careers in natural resources. Applicants must reside in specific Illinois counties and plan to enroll in a full-time program related to fields such as ecology, hydrology, and conservation. Academic performance is a key consideration in the selection process. For more details, contact the Winnebago County Soil & Water Conservation District.

NAFC Open Grant/Product Donation Applications

The National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC) is the only nonprofit 501c(3) organization whose mission is solely focused on the issues and needs of the medically underserved throughout the nation and the more than 1,400 Free and Charitable Clinics that serve them. The NAFC has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar and a 4-Star rating from Charity Navigator. Founded in 2001 and headquartered near Washington, D.C., the NAFC is working to ensure that the medically underserved have access to affordable quality healthcare and strives to be a national voice promoting quality healthcare for all. For more information about the NAFC, including how to become a member, please visit https://www.nafcclinics.org.

NAFC Healthcare Services Expansion Fund

The NAFC Healthcare Services Expansion Fund supports the launch or expansion of clinical programs and new service areas that increase access to care for underserved patients. This funding is designed to help NAFC members introduce new services or grow existing programs that address unmet community health needs and improve access to comprehensive, patient-centered care.

The OECD Conference Sponsorship aims to enhance scientific knowledge and provide essential information to influence policy decisions on sustainable resource use in food, agriculture, forestry, and fisheries. It supports international events that showcase innovative research and developments, inviting applications from scientists in these fields. The event sponsorship encourages collaboration among policymakers, industry, and academia, ensuring that research insights are effectively communicated and utilized in decision-making processes.

The RNRF Planning and Small Grants program provides funding up to $50,000 to support projects that enhance collaboration among community partners in addressing critical environmental issues. Eligible applicants must be 501c3 organizations in the U.S. and demonstrate multidisciplinary cooperation. Projects should align with RNRF's mission and focus areas, including air quality, biodiversity, and renewable energy. The initiative aims to create sustainable and impactful outcomes by bridging research and practical implementation.

The RNRF Implementation/Collaboration Grants support innovative projects that enhance collaboration among stakeholders to address critical challenges in environmental, social, and economic systems. Offering up to $200,000 for initiatives lasting 12 months or more, these grants aim to implement evidence-based practices and facilitate multidisciplinary teamwork. Eligible applicants must be from 501c3 organizations in the U.S., ensuring alignment with RNRF's mission and focus areas, fostering sustainable and impactful outcomes.

RBC Foundation – USA aims to enhance community quality of life by supporting non-profit organizations that promote diversity and positive change. In 2023, it awarded over $2.8 million in grants, prioritizing youth programs for ages 15-29, arts access for diverse populations, and mental well-being initiatives. The foundation encourages sustainable projects that foster economic independence, providing critical support for education, mental health, and cultural enrichment, thereby making a significant impact across various communities.