Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in Tennessee

The Marv VandenBosch Scholarship, established by Sandra VandenBosch and her children in memory of Marv VandenBosch, supports Tri-Cities students pursuing careers in criminal justice or law enforcement. This scholarship considers financial need and requires applicants to have a minimum GPA of 2.5. The Grand Haven Area Community Foundation administers the scholarship through a competitive process, ensuring that each applicant is thoroughly reviewed to promote academic achievement and community involvement.

The Start-Up Research Grant aims to support early-career researchers establishing independent research careers. Grants are awarded for two years, enabling applicants to submit future proposals. The program emphasizes scientific excellence and collaboration between Israeli and American scientists. Eligible junior principal investigators (PIs) must be within ten years of their PhD or MD completion. Notably, the grant does not cover PI salaries and requires adherence to BSF's application standards.

The BIE Science Post Graduate Scholarship Fund offers financial assistance to American Indian and Alaska Native students pursuing full-time degrees in STEM fields at accredited institutions. This need-based award ranges from $100 to $30,000 per academic year, based on financial aid information provided by the institution's Financial Aid Office. Eligible students must demonstrate Tribal affiliation through a Tribal Eligibility Certificate.

The National Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program (BREP) for FY2026/27 offers competitive grants aimed at supporting non-Federal researchers. This initiative, governed by the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, focuses on developing innovative fishing practices and gear technologies to minimize bycatch and reduce post-release mortality of non-target species. By addressing bycatch reduction, the program seeks to enhance the sustainability of U.S. fisheries and aquaculture, aligning with the National Marine Fisheries Service's conservation goals.

About The NRA Foundation

The heart of The NRA Foundation’s mission is preserving the core of our American values and traditions in our steadfast effort to Teach Freedom.

The NRA Foundation Supports Freedom, Family, and the Future of the Shooting Sports

Established in 1990, The NRA Foundation, Inc. (“NRA Foundation”) is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization that raises tax-deductible contributions in support of a wide range of firearm-related public interest activities of the National Rifle Association of America and other organizations that defend and foster the Second Amendment rights of all law-abiding Americans.

The heart of The NRA Foundation’s mission is preserving the core of our American values and traditions in our steadfast effort to Teach Freedom.

Established in 1990, The NRA Foundation, Inc. (“NRA Foundation”) is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization that raises tax-deductible contributions in support of a wide range of firearm-related public interest activities of the National Rifle Association of America and other organizations that defend and foster the Second Amendment rights of all law-abiding Americans. These activities are designed to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those participating in the shooting sports, and to educate the general public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context. Funds granted by The NRA Foundation benefit a variety of constituencies throughout the United States including children, youth, women, individuals with physical disabilities, gun collectors, law enforcement officers, hunters and competitive shooters.

The NRA Foundation Frontline Heroes Scholarship

The NRA Foundation Board of Trustees has established the Frontline Heroes Scholarship to institute a memorial to this distinguished group of First Responders, Law Enforcement Officers, and Military personnel*, who have served continuously and unselfishly in the highest tradition of our great nation.

The Frontline Heroes Scholarship will give a one-time annual award of up to $10,000** for one eligible candidate.

The AAFP Family Medicine Chapter Alliance Grant Awards support the philanthropic efforts of AAFP Constituent Chapters and Chapter Foundations. Since 2006, these grants have been designed to fund activities that align with specific priority areas including education, outreach, and public health initiatives. Eligible applicants include AAFP Chapters and Foundations, focusing on projects that promote community health and wellness.

The Ronald Crall Family Scholarship, offered by the Ashland County Community Foundation, aims to support graduating seniors from any Ashland County high school, including home-schooled students. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and be accepted to an accredited college or university. This scholarship honors Ron Crall’s legacy, providing financial assistance to students in need, ensuring they can pursue higher education without financial stress, similar to the support his family received.

The R01 grant program aims to address disparities in liver diseases and liver cancer in the United States. It supports multi-level intervention research targeting populations with significant health disparities. With deadlines spanning from February 2024 to June 2027, this initiative encourages innovative approaches to improve health outcomes in underserved communities, ultimately enhancing public health and reducing inequities in healthcare access and treatment.

The William & Martha Buckingham Scholarship - Renewal, managed by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools with a GPA of 2.75 or higher. This scholarship aids students accepted into accredited colleges or universities and can be renewed for up to three years with proof of enrollment and academic standing. Established by Bill and Martha Buckingham, it reflects their commitment to giving back to the community they adopted as their own.

The Youth Regional Treatment Center Aftercare Program aims to support American Indian and Alaska Native youth in maintaining safety, sobriety, and success post-discharge from Youth Regional Treatment Centers. This initiative enhances culturally relevant, community-based aftercare by fostering care coordination, building partnerships, and addressing barriers to improve youth outcomes.

The Urban Indian Health 4-in-1 Program is designed to enhance the health and well-being of urban Native Americans through targeted initiatives in immunization, health promotion, disease prevention, mental health support, and addressing alcohol and substance abuse issues. Funded by the US Dept. of Health & Human Services, this program aims to improve access to essential health services and foster healthier communities among urban Indian populations.

The Animal and Veterinary Innovation Centers (U18) funding opportunity, led by the FDA, aims to foster collaborations with academic institutions to tackle critical veterinary health challenges. This includes addressing Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, promoting genomic advancements in agriculture, and developing veterinary solutions for minor species. Applications are invited to enhance animal health and public safety, with Letters of Intent due prior to the July 2024 deadline.

The NIH Countermeasures Against Chemical Threats (CounterACT) initiative invites applications for basic research on chemical agents affecting the nervous system. This program aims to explore the toxicity mechanisms of chemical warfare agents, industrial chemicals, and pesticides. Researchers are encouraged to generate data that could reveal new therapeutic targets and manifestations of toxic exposures, contributing to public health safety against potential chemical threats.

The Alzheimer’s Association and ASNR Imaging Research Grant focuses on advancing imaging research in Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases. This partnership aims to support early-stage pilot projects that develop novel imaging tools and innovative data analysis methods. Up to three proposals will be funded, with each award capped at $200,000 for one year, promoting significant advancements in the field and enhancing research capabilities for better understanding of dementia.

The AAFP Foundation offers Family Medicine Chapter Engagement Grants to support the philanthropic initiatives of its constituent chapters. Each chapter or chapter foundation can receive $750 to highlight programs focused on Student/Resident education, Member Outreach, or Public Health. This initiative not only showcases the impactful work being done at the chapter level but also aids in fundraising efforts, fostering stronger community connections and improving health outcomes.

The Amanda Reed Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of Amanda Reed, a Rockford resident and 2001 Boylan Central Catholic High School graduate, who tragically lost her life due to domestic violence. This scholarship supports individuals committed to stopping domestic abuse and promoting community safety. Applicants are encouraged to provide references from those familiar with their work in domestic violence prevention. Academic performance will be considered moderately in the selection process, fostering a compassionate and proactive community.

Scott Cornelius Memorial Scholarship (Piedmont)

To honor the memory of Scott Cornelius by supporting students pursuing careers in sales, marketing, insurance or related business fields who demonstrate leadership and integrity.

The Colleen Maher Inspirational Scholarship supports individuals with intellectual disabilities, aged 18-25, who are current students or graduates of Rockford Public Schools. This scholarship empowers them to pursue post-secondary education and develop skills for independent living. Inspired by Colleen Maher, who overcame challenges associated with Down syndrome, this initiative aims to ensure that others like her can access educational opportunities and work towards their dreams, fostering a more inclusive community.

The Undergraduate Development Program Student Travel Award offers undergraduate science majors a unique opportunity to attend the Society of Toxicology Annual Meeting from March 21–23, 2026. The program aims to inspire students pursuing research careers in toxicology and related biomedical sciences. Participants will engage with professionals, attend sessions, and explore various educational and career paths. SOT emphasizes inclusiveness, encouraging diverse perspectives to enhance innovation in the field.

Fund the Dream Scholarship

The Fund the Dream Scholarship Fund was established in 2022 by the Hispanic Alliance, GA. The purpose of this scholarship is to ‘Build the Dream, One Graduate at a Time.’ Minority students from first-generation/low-income backgrounds face systemic roadblocks while navigating the college admissions process. Graduating seniors coming from low-income families are seven times more likely to drop out than those from families with higher income. In addition, 74% of Latino students enrolled in colleges and universities in the U.S. cut their education short due to the financial pressures of supporting their families. To help mitigate the educational opportunity gap and student debt crisis, the Hispanic Alliance Georgia Fund the Dream Scholarship will support one student who has huge aspirations for their life and is willing to work through anything to achieve them. This scholarship is funded by proceeds from the annual Latino Fest in Gainesville, Georgia and is part of our commitment to making academic and scholarship support more accessible for all students.

When choosing a recipient, the selection committee will take into consideration factors such as the applicant’s academic achievement, financial need, immigration status, volunteering efforts, future educational goals, and responses to essay question. Special consideration will be given to students participating in the Latino Youth Leadership Academy. The 2026 scholarship will be a one-time award of $1,500.

The Edwin and Ina Ayers Scholarship, established by the Ashland County Community Foundation, honors the legacy of caregiving in the Coe/Ayers family. This scholarship supports students pursuing baccalaureate nursing programs across the U.S., reflecting the family's commitment to healthcare and education. With nearly 200 years of nursing service from family members, this fund not only commemorates Edwin and Ina Ayers but also empowers future generations of nurses dedicated to compassionate care.

The Bill and Cay Harris Scholarship, established in 2010, supports graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools who demonstrate Christian service and leadership qualities. Funded by the Ashland County Community Foundation, this scholarship aims to assist students with a minimum GPA of 2.5 who are accepted to accredited colleges or universities. Preference is given to those majoring in History or Social Studies. Bill and Cay Harris, notable community figures, inspire future generations through this scholarship.

The Nutrition Obesity Research Centers (NORCs) program, funded by the National Institutes of Health, invites applications for core centers that enhance nutrition and obesity research. It supports research core services, pilot and feasibility programs, and enrichment activities, aiming to improve research efficiency and productivity. This funding opportunity encourages multidisciplinary approaches to tackle obesity and nutrition issues, ultimately contributing to a healthier population.

The Ashland Noon Lions Club Scholarship supports educational opportunities for Ashland County high school seniors with a GPA of 2.0 or higher, accepted to accredited colleges. Established by the Ashland Noon Lions Club in 1920, this scholarship aims to foster civic and cultural welfare in the community. Applicants who have family ties to a Lions Club or are Leo Club members receive special consideration, enhancing the scholarship's community impact.

The Ashland County Pilot's Association created the Leo K. Heyl Memorial Scholarship to honor Leo's passion for aviation. This scholarship assists high school seniors from Ashland County or neighboring areas, particularly those majoring in Aviation, with a minimum GPA of 2.5. It reflects the foundation's commitment to nurturing future aviators and maintaining Leo's legacy, ensuring that his love for flying continues to inspire new generations.

The Ashland County 4-H Committee Scholarship supports graduating seniors involved in the Ashland County 4-H Program. Funded by Dean and Marge McBurney, this scholarship recognizes students based on their 4-H participation, extracurricular activities, and financial need. It aims to assist students in pursuing higher education, ensuring that they have the resources and encouragement needed to achieve their academic goals.