Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in Tennessee

The Dr. Alice M. Hudder- Richard T. Molder Post-Secondary Scholarship Fund, established by Richard Molder, supports Erie County high school seniors pursuing post-secondary education. In 2023, the Erie Community Foundation awarded over $800,000 in scholarships to deserving students. Two awards will be granted: one for students focusing on science, math, or business, and another for those studying art or music, emphasizing financial need and a strong work ethic.

The Building Hope: Future Forward Schools Prize & Fellowship Program aims to enhance career exploration for middle and high school students. This initiative, launched by Building Hope in partnership with American Student Assistance, recognizes schools that excel in career-connected learning. Awardees receive funding, mentorship, and resources to empower students from diverse backgrounds, ensuring they develop essential skills for future success. With $50,000 available for five schools, this program fosters innovation and prepares students for a changing economy.

The Carl Alwin Schenck Award, presented by the Society of American Foresters, honors exemplary contributions in forestry education. This prestigious award recognizes individuals with at least ten years of professional experience who demonstrate outstanding teaching abilities and commitment to forestry. Awardees receive a $500 honorarium, complimentary registration for the SAF national convention, and up to $500 for travel expenses. This award underlines the importance of effective education in advancing sustainable forestry practices.

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5429 - Bioavailability and Transformation of Dissolved Organic Nitrogen and Phosphorus Across WRRFs

Project Objectives

• Survey and characterize dissolved organic nitrogen and phosphorus (DON/DOP) concentrations and speciation across North American wastewater facilities, including but not limited to influent, secondary effluent, tertiary effluent, digester supernatant, thermal hydrolysis process (THP) centrate, autothermal thermophilic digestion (ATAD) sidestreams, and dewatering recycle streams.
• Understand the dynamics of DON/DOP in effluent, including quantifying the bioavailable fraction of DON/DOP in different relevant process streams, evaluating their transformation into nitrogenous disinfection by-product (N-DBP) precursors, determining bio-uptake rates representative of receiving water conditions, and measuring the timescale for biodegradation in receiving waters.

The CDC is offering funding to enhance collaboration among tuberculosis control programs and various partners in the U.S. This initiative aims to strengthen relationships with national TB control entities, federal agencies, academia, and community organizations. The goal is to promote health and quality of life by preventing, controlling, and eventually eliminating tuberculosis in the United States, building on previous funding opportunities.

The TURTLE Program aims to empower Tribal Entities by fostering a skilled workforce in biomedical research. It supports undergraduate and graduate students in health research, ensuring they complete their degrees and transition into impactful careers. With phased awards, the program emphasizes effective training and mentoring, inviting eligible organizations to apply. Applications will undergo NIH's peer-review process, ensuring only the most meritorious proposals are funded, ultimately enhancing Tribal health research capabilities.

The Homeless Veterans' Reintegration Program (HVRP) aims to assist veterans experiencing homelessness by providing tailored employment services. This federal initiative focuses on helping veterans transition to stable employment through job training, case management, and connections to local supportive services. HVRP aligns with national priorities to enhance career outcomes for veterans, ensuring they receive the necessary tools and resources for sustainable employment and integration into the workforce.

Morgan Stanley Alliance for Children’s Mental Health Innovation Awards aim to fund innovative mental healthcare solutions for children in the U.S. This initiative invites U.S.-based 501(c)(3) charities with revenues under $5 million to submit projects. With up to $550,000 in grants, the program focuses on addressing critical mental health issues among youth, fostering equity in access to care, and supporting nonprofits led by young leaders. Awards include up to $100,000 for general and $50,000 for Next Gen projects.

The Agriculture Innovation Center Grant Program aims to support Agriculture Innovation Centers by providing grants that facilitate technical assistance to agricultural producers. This initiative focuses on enhancing the marketing of value-added agricultural products, ultimately fostering growth in the agricultural sector. Funded by the USDA's Rural Business-Cooperative Service, this program is designed to empower producers and promote innovation in agricultural practices.

Pershing Square Lotus Award for Ovarian Cancer Research

The Pershing Square Foundation (PSF) has worked across sectors to catalyze innovative approaches to the most difficult problems. Talented individuals have always been at the center of our approach. We aim to support leaders who transform systems, embrace new paradigms, and have an innate drive to make an impact.

PSF has funded pioneering cancer researchers through the Pershing Square Sohn Cancer Research Alliance for over a decade and supported women’s health initiatives in New York City. Through this Request for Proposals (RFP), PSF aims to combine these two priority areas of women’s health and cancer to shine a light on one of the most understudied and underfunded cancers—ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer is the deadliest gynecologic cancer, with 80% of women diagnosed at an advanced stage. Only 27% of women diagnosed during an advanced stage survive for five years. Ovarian cancer remains a disease with a poor prognosis due to limited early detection and treatment options.

PSF supports research efforts by 

• deploying capital quickly, 
• funding high-risk, high-reward ideas, 
• bringing new perspectives into a field, 
• encouraging collaboration, and 
• leveraging our vast network. We challenge our scientific partners to think creatively and across silos, to spur innovation to fight ovarian cancer.

Through the Pershing Square Lotus Award for Ovarian Cancer Research, PSF is looking for investigators who are either already working on a promising project in ovarian cancer or in another type of cancer that could have an impact on ovarian cancer. Grantees each receive $250,000 a year for three years, totaling $750,000.

Researchers who are not studying ovarian cancer are encouraged to apply and required to find a collaborator with experience in ovarian cancer research.

This award aims to 

• inspire investigators with unique expertise to apply their knowledge to ovarian cancer and 
• empower ovarian cancer researchers to pursue their boldest, most innovative ideas. Facing a disease where too few have survived to-date, PSF ultimately aims to create a culture around ovarian cancer that offers women hope, akin to the breast cancer community. PSF is passionate about changing outcomes for tens of thousands of women a year and is hopeful that future scientific discoveries will allow for more survivors who can share their stories for years to come.

Alkermes

At Alkermes, we apply our deep neuroscience expertise to develop medicines designed to help people living with complex and difficult-to-treat psychiatric and neurological disorders, including addiction, serious mental illness and sleep disorders. With our portfolio of marketed medicines and investigational pipeline candidates, we seek to make a meaningful difference in the way people manage these chronic diseases. Our patient-inspired science, integrated research strategy, sophisticated development capabilities and specialized commercial infrastructure enable us to pursue the development and commercialization of innovative new medicines, including those for people with conditions that have traditionally been overlooked or stigmatized.

Our greatest strengths at Alkermes are our people and our inherent empathy for patients, families and caregivers. Neurological and psychiatric disorders strike people at the core of who they are and impact many facets of their lives. We work with urgency to develop new treatment options for people living with these conditions.

Investigator Sponsored Studies Program

Alkermes seeks to support research designed and conducted by independent clinicians and scientists through our Investigator Sponsored Studies (ISS) program. Alkermes may occasionally announce a Request for Proposals (RFP) for research in clinical areas where gaps in data have been identified. 

The ISS research Alkermes supports must be based in the United States and is typically conducted by experienced researchers who have an established history of successfully completing research with independent funding. Alkermes can provide its marketed products to the ISS programs it supports. In addition, there may be financial support available, but please note that study budgets cannot exceed $300,000 (inclusive of overhead).

• ISS Areas of Interest
  • Sleep Disorders
  • Schizophrenia & Bipolar I Disorder
  • Schizophrenia

The State Pilot Program for Treatment for Pregnant and Postpartum Women aims to enhance the state's capacity to deliver integrated and evidence-based services for substance use disorders and maternal mental health. The initiative focuses on supporting pregnant and postpartum women and their families, ensuring they receive comprehensive care tailored to their unique needs. Funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, this program is a vital step toward improving health outcomes for vulnerable populations.

The SEFSC Bluefin Tuna Research Program aims to enhance science-based fisheries management for Atlantic bluefin tuna by improving knowledge of their fisheries, biology, and population dynamics. This initiative encourages collaborations with ICCAT and its partners to support multi-year research efforts focused on the movement and mixing of eastern and western Atlantic bluefin populations, ultimately contributing to better management practices for sustainable fisheries.

The Rural Maternity and Obstetrics Management Strategies Program (Rural MOMS) aims to enhance access to maternity and obstetrics care in rural areas through collaborative networks. Funded by the US HHS: Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), this initiative focuses on innovative strategies to improve healthcare delivery for mothers and infants in underserved regions, ensuring that quality care is accessible where it is needed most.

About Patient Advocate Foundation

Patient Advocate Foundation is the nation’s most comprehensive nonprofit dedicated to helping patients navigate, access, and afford the care they need—while improving the healthcare system for all.

Who we are and our impact

Patient Advocate Foundation provides financial assistance to help patients afford treatment and cost of living needs, personalized case management to navigate complex healthcare and social needs challenges, and a wide array of resources to empower people to take charge of their health. Since our founding in 1996—and joining forces with the PAN Foundation in 2026—we have helped 3.8 million patients navigate and access care, granted over $7 billion in financial assistance, served 350,000 people through personalized case management and elevated the patient’s voice to drive improvements in the healthcare system.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) health equity

Help with healthcare costs for multiple sclerosis (health equity)

This TotalAssist fund helps you pay for out-of-pocket healthcare costs, including medication copays, coinsurance, and deductibles, health insurance premiums, and other expenses.

Health Equity Funds offer help to eligible patients living in areas identified as having increased social and financial needs, as well as higher rates of chronic conditions. Eligibility is determined in part by home address zip code. 

About the disease

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a potentially disabling disease of the central nervous system in which the insulating covers of the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord are damaged. MS is a chronic disease that affects the nervous system.

About Patient Advocate Foundation

Patient Advocate Foundation is the nation’s most comprehensive nonprofit dedicated to helping patients navigate, access, and afford the care they need—while improving the healthcare system for all.

Who we are and our impact

Patient Advocate Foundation provides financial assistance to help patients afford treatment and cost of living needs, personalized case management to navigate complex healthcare and social needs challenges, and a wide array of resources to empower people to take charge of their health. Since our founding in 1996—and joining forces with the PAN Foundation in 2026—we have helped 3.8 million patients navigate and access care, granted over $7 billion in financial assistance, served 350,000 people through personalized case management and elevated the patient’s voice to drive improvements in the healthcare system.

Multiple sclerosis (MS)

Help with healthcare costs for Multiple sclerosis (MS)

This TotalAssist fund helps you pay for out-of-pocket healthcare costs, including medication copays, coinsurance, and deductibles, health insurance premiums, and other expenses.

About the disease

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a potentially disabling disease of the central nervous system in which the insulating covers of the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord are damaged. MS is a chronic disease that affects the nervous system.

About Patient Advocate Foundation

Patient Advocate Foundation is the nation’s most comprehensive nonprofit dedicated to helping patients navigate, access, and afford the care they need—while improving the healthcare system for all.

Who we are and our impact

Patient Advocate Foundation provides financial assistance to help patients afford treatment and cost of living needs, personalized case management to navigate complex healthcare and social needs challenges, and a wide array of resources to empower people to take charge of their health. Since our founding in 1996—and joining forces with the PAN Foundation in 2026—we have helped 3.8 million patients navigate and access care, granted over $7 billion in financial assistance, served 350,000 people through personalized case management and elevated the patient’s voice to drive improvements in the healthcare system.

Eosinophilic esophagitis

Help with healthcare costs for eosinophilic esophagitis

This TotalAssist fund helps you pay for out-of-pocket healthcare costs, including medication copays, coinsurance, and deductibles, health insurance premiums, and other expenses.

About the disease

Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) is a disorder of the esophagus and is increasingly recognized as a major cause of swallowing difficulties in children and adults. It is a chronic disease of the immune system and can be triggered by a food allergy, acid reflux, or an airborne allergy. An allergic trigger causes the immune system to overact which causes many white blood cells, or eosinophils, to collect in the esophagus. This causes the esophagus to become inflamed and not contract properly. The esophagus can also narrow and develop rings or abscesses. This condition can become worse over time.

Lawson Family Foundation

The Lawson Family Foundation was established by Phil Lawson in 2020 to serve as a catalyst for the development of a more healthy, prosperous, and inclusive Knoxville community. As a private grantmaking foundation, the Lawson Family Foundation focuses support on organizations involved in the areas of Justice & Economic Mobility, Education & Youth Development, Prevention of Exploitation & Violence, and Community Health & Food Security. 

Driven by the belief that every life has equal value, the Lawson Family Foundation exists to support efforts that promote justice and opportunity in all aspects of society, primarily in Knoxville, Tennessee. In doing so, it seeks to achieve a positive impact in marginalized communities that will last for generations.

Lawson Family Foundation Community Health & Food Security Grant

Access to basic healthcare and nutritious food is essential for individual well-being and community resilience. However, many families in the Knoxville area lack access to healthy food, preventative care, and wellness resources—contributing to persistent physical and mental health disparities, particularly in historically underserved communities.

The Foundation supports programs that expand access to nutritious food, promote healthy lifestyles, and strengthen community-based health resources. 

Lawson Family Foundation

The Lawson Family Foundation was established by Phil Lawson in 2020 to serve as a catalyst for the development of a more healthy, prosperous, and inclusive Knoxville community. As a private grantmaking foundation, the Lawson Family Foundation focuses support on organizations involved in the areas of Justice & Economic Mobility, Education & Youth Development, Prevention of Exploitation & Violence, and Community Health & Food Security. 

Driven by the belief that every life has equal value, the Lawson Family Foundation exists to support efforts that promote justice and opportunity in all aspects of society, primarily in Knoxville, Tennessee. In doing so, it seeks to achieve a positive impact in marginalized communities that will last for generations.

Lawson Family Foundation Education & Youth Development Grant

Education is foundational to long-term success and thriving communities. Yet many children in the Knoxville area face disparities in access to quality education, supportive environments, and essential resources—including children with physical, mental, intellectual, and learning disabilities, as well as those from historically underserved communities.

The Foundation invests in efforts that strengthen early childhood development, improve literacy, and expand pathways to college and career. We support programs such as after-school enrichment, mentorship, and family-centered initiatives, with an emphasis on inclusive approaches that ensure all children—regardless of ability or background—have access to the tools, support, and opportunities needed to reach their full potential.

About Samba RecoverySamba Recovery is dedicated to empowering individuals recovering from alcoholism and drug addiction by restoring confidence and fostering resilience. Through a foundation of compassion, support, and holistic care, we guide individuals toward renewed health and wellness, meaningful relationships, and the discovery of their inner strengths—assisting them to achieve their fullest potential.Hope for Addiction ScholarshipSamba Recovery’s Hope for Addiction Scholarship is an annual $1,000 award dedicated to encouraging more young people to join the fight against addiction by pursuing degrees that directly support individuals and families affected by substance use disorders.

We welcome applications from all eligible students, with special encouragement for those who are in recovery themselves or who have been impacted by addiction within their families.Application requirements:

• Proof of college enrollment or acceptance
• Pursuing a degree with the goal of working with individuals and/or families impacted by addiction
• Completed application form
• An original 500 to 1000 word essay on how you are planning to use your degree to help individuals and families struggling with addiction, and why helping those affected by substance use disorder is important to you

The Steven Scott Quinn Scholarship Fund, established by the Stark Community Foundation, aims to support Stark County, Ohio residents pursuing higher education in fields such as culinary arts, hospitality, nursing, nutrition, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. This initiative reflects the Foundation's long-standing commitment to enhancing the community through philanthropy and addressing diverse educational needs since its inception in 1963.

The CDC's National Center for Injury Prevention and Control invites research proposals aimed at reducing suicide and interpersonal violence among youth aged 10 to 24. This funding opportunity encourages the evaluation of pre-existing primary prevention strategies that have not yet been rigorously assessed. Proposed approaches may include community programs and policies designed to enhance social connectedness, mitigate harmful online behaviors, and address technology-facilitated interpersonal violence.

2026 Veterans and Nature Grant

Supporting the health, well-being, and community connection of America's veterans

The National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) is pleased to announce grant funding supported by the American Medical Association (AMA) to expand access to nature-based experiences that support the health, well-being, and community connection of America's veterans. AMA has partnered with NEEF to bring an evidence-based health perspective to this effort, underscoring the growing body of research linking time in nature to improved physical and mental health outcomes.

Background

A Pew Research Center survey found that roughly one in four veterans say the transition back to civilian life was at least somewhat difficult. This is especially true for those who return home with stress or trauma. The National Alliance on Mental Illness estimates 11-20% of veterans are believed to experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) each year.

Nature offers profound restorative benefits for veterans navigating the challenges of post-service life. Time spent outdoors — whether hiking, fishing, camping, or simply sitting among trees — has been shown by numerous studies to reduce symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression, conditions that affect veterans at disproportionately high rates.

Quieting hypervigilance, allowing space for reflection, fostering camaraderie, and reducing isolation are all mental and physical benefits that be found through outdoor recreation. Using America’s public lands to do so provides a powerful and accessible path forward.

Overview

Through the 2026 Veterans and Nature grant, NEEF aims to expand access to nature-based experiences that support veteran health, well-being, and community connection by

• Providing opportunities for outdoor activities on public land that improve the physical and mental health of veterans
• Increasing veterans’ understanding of the physical and mental health benefits of time in nature

The grant will provide up to $10,000 per grantee for projects on federal, state, local, or nonprofit public lands that address physical and mental health in veteran communities.

Examples of project types include outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, climbing, or fishing; wellness activities, such as forest bathing or meditation; environmental education, such as community science; adaptive programming; and conservation volunteering. Projects are not limited to those listed here.

Building the Future Workforce Challenge

Awarding $5 million and the opportunity to test bold, tech‑forward solutions that strengthen the advanced manufacturing and industry technician workforce—today and for the future.

About the Challenge

Caterpillar knows preparing the workforce for the future is urgent. Communities, employers, and industry need new ways to close advancing skill gaps. The Building the Future Workforce Challenge invites fresh perspectives from all sectors to rethink training. Up to five teams will be awarded $1 million each for sustainable, tech‑forward solutions that strengthen today’s—and tomorrow’s—advanced manufacturing and industry technician talent pipelines.

What types of solutions are you looking for?

The Building the Future Workforce Challenge aims to identify, test, and scale innovative, sustainable solutions that will address today’s and tomorrow’s advanced manufacturing and industry technician skill gaps. A core requirement of any solution is that it remains relevant amid evolving technology—ensuring that breakthrough innovation and human potential rise together.

Strong proposals for Building the Future Workforce Challenge will meet four criteria outlined in the scoring rubric, and proposed solutions must focus on one or more of the following solution categories for Building the Future Workforce Challenge:

The NBA Foundation Grants aim to empower Black youth by providing economic opportunities through skills training, mentorship, and career advancement programs. Established by all 30 NBA teams, the foundation focuses on organizations aligned with its mission, specifically those serving Black youth in NBA markets. Applications for 2024 grants are now open, with a review process taking 12-14 weeks. This initiative is crucial for promoting sustainable economic and racial justice in communities.

The Gospel Fest Music Arts Scholarship, established by Vicki Hill of WTLZ-FM, aims to support Saginaw County students pursuing degrees in Musical Arts. This initiative is part of a larger effort by the Saginaw Community Foundation to enhance local education through scholarships and grants. The annual Gospel Fest, attracting up to 2,000 attendees, serves as a vibrant community event promoting peace and cultural unity through music, showcasing both local and national talent.

Who We Are - CAP Foundation

Mission

Our mission is to improve people’s health by:

• Developing tomorrow’s pathology leaders through awards for advanced training, research, and education.
• Mobilizing pathologists to expand health equity in medically underserved communities within the US and globally.

Vision

Our vision is that pathologists are equipped to bridge health disparities and enhance outcomes globally.

CAP Foundation History

For over 50 years, the CAP Foundation has granted millions of dollars to support pathology education, research, training, and travel grants, with the purpose to:

• Enhance the role of the pathologist in the provision of medical care.
• Advance pathology through the education of the medical community.
• Encourage the clinical application of research developments.

Our Core Values

• Advancement: We are committed to pushing the boundaries of pathology and patient care through scholarships, grants, and educational programs.
• Collaboration: Through effective partnerships, we significantly enhance our capacity to fulfill our mission.
• Excellence: We are dedicated to achieving the highest standards in pathology education, research, and community service.
• Service: Service reflects our core mission of improving health equity by providing access to healthcare and pathology expertise, particularly in underserved communities.

Presidential Pathology Scholarship

This scholarship allows the sitting CAP President to personally support educational creativity, expand awareness of pathology, and connect communities through the CAP Foundation’s mission to develop tomorrow’s pathology leaders. This scholarship is established in honor of each sitting CAP President, as a commitment to the CAP Foundation’s efforts to advance the specialty by supporting creative projects that encourage interest in or expand the reach of pathology. Up to two scholarships will be supported each year. Ranging from $500-$1,500 per awardee, to be used toward the selected project(s).

Each year the sitting CAP President will select a focus area to support based on at least one of the CAP Foundation’s Five (5) Pillars. CAP Foundation Five Pillars:

• Global: Expands global pathology access, capacity, training, and equity.
• Future Leaders: Builds pipeline through learning, leadership, mentorship, and awards.
• Ethics, Research, Innovation: Advances ethical practice, discovery, innovation, and diagnostic excellence.
• Advanced Training: Delivers specialized skills through grants, workshops, and roundtables.
• Community Engagement: Increases visibility and connection with patients, partners, and the public.