Best Public Infrastructure Grants in Tennessee

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations supporting safety, community vitality, workforce development, or environmental sustainability projects that benefit Tennessee communities served by Union Pacific can seek funding for local infrastructure and related programs. Union Pacific Foundation’s Community Ties Giving Program offers US $5,000 - US $30,000 for direct services, capacity building, and public safety or community improvements within its rail footprint.

Tennessee 501(c)(3) nonprofits with $100,000+ budgets can access funding for workforce readiness, youth development, arts access, community stability, and environmental sustainability projects. Grants from RBC Foundation – USA support job skills, apprenticeships, financial well-being, accessible community spaces, and net-zero transition efforts in communities where RBC Wealth Management has an active business presence.

The Fiscal Year 2026 National Dam Safety Program focuses on rehabilitating high hazard potential dams that do not meet state safety standards. Funded by FEMA, this initiative aims to protect lives and property by providing federal funds to eligible states, which then pass these funds to non-Federal governmental or nonprofit organizations. Rehabilitation involves repairing, replacing, reconstructing, or removing dams to ensure compliance with safety regulations.

With a mission to enhance public infrastructure and transportation, the Maritime Administration provides Tennessee public agencies and related entities with funding to develop or expand Marine Highway Transportation projects. Eligible projects must reduce landside congestion or promote shipper use of marine highway routes, with awards up to US $12,000,000 available across U.S. jurisdictions.

State and local transportation agencies in Tennessee can apply for the DOT Federal Highway Administration’s ATTAIN Competitive Grant Program, with awards up to US $12,000,000 to deploy advanced transportation technologies. Projects may include public infrastructure, transit, safety, and congestion management improvements that enhance mobility, connectivity, and system performance across communities.

Universities, research institutions, and policy-focused organizations working on transportation systems in Tennessee can seek funding to study and improve public infrastructure and transit policies in the U.S. Grants from Arnold Ventures help advance research, data, and policy reforms on transportation capital investment, cost control, access, and implementation across federal, state, and local levels, with awards up to US $200,000.

With a mission to support public infrastructure and workforce equity, nonprofits in Tennessee can use this Funders' Network initiative to fund community partnerships, job training, and inclusive infrastructure planning; awards US $45,000 - US $120,000. Projects must already have public infrastructure funding and provide at least a 50% match from a place-based or regional funder.

State and local governments, nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes planning rural water, wastewater, or related public infrastructure in Tennessee can get predevelopment support through this program. USDA Rural Development funds feasibility studies, preliminary design, engineering analysis, and technical assistance for proposed water and waste disposal projects in very small, financially distressed rural communities.

Local governments and organizations developing public infrastructure and economic development projects in Tennessee’s Appalachian counties can apply for Tennessee Department of Economic & Community Development’s Appalachian Regional Commission funding; awards Up to US $1,000,000 for construction and US $500,000 for non-construction projects. Eligible projects include water, wastewater, utilities, transportation, and related community development improvements.

Tennessee public infrastructure and related policy researchers can access funding through Arnold Ventures to conduct rigorous quasi-experimental evaluations of social programs and policies. Eligible projects use methods like natural experiments or regression discontinuity within AV focus areas such as infrastructure, higher education, workforce training, reproductive health, or public finance, helping build evidence on what works for decision-makers.

Industrial and energy-technology organizations developing thermal or electric storage solutions for industrial facilities in the U.S., including Tennessee, can apply for the Industrial Energy Storage Systems Prize to advance cost-effective storage concepts. The U.S. Department of Energy supports multi-phase design, prototyping, and validation of industrial energy storage systems with awards up to US $700,000.

Federally recognized Indian Tribes in Tennessee and nationwide can seek funding to plan, design, construct, rehabilitate, or inspect unsafe or aging Tribal Transportation Program (TTP) bridges. US Department of Transportation: Federal Highway Administration supports improvements to BIA/Tribally owned and other eligible bridges in poor condition or with low load capacity through the TTP Bridge Program.

State and local governments, counties, Tribal governments, transit agencies, and port authorities in Tennessee can seek funding for major surface transportation infrastructure projects through the US Department of Transportation’s BUILD program, with awards up to US $25,000,000. Focused on public infrastructure and transit, it supports multi-modal, multi-jurisdictional projects with significant local or regional impact across the U.S. territories and states.

Nonprofits, government entities, and tribal organizations working on traffic safety projects in Tennessee can apply for National Safety Council’s Road to Zero Community Traffic Safety Grants, awarding US $50,000 - US $200,000 for innovative, evidence-based countermeasures. Grants support Safe System approaches, public infrastructure, and pedestrian and bike-friendly improvements that can be replicated or scaled nationally within the U.S.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) charities and government entities working on public infrastructure and community development in Tennessee can apply for SC Johnson Giving grants to support healthier, more sustainable, and more equitable communities. Funding may cover projects in public infrastructure, environmental conservation, public health, education, and community revitalization, especially in areas near SC Johnson operations.

Local governments and community-based nonprofits planning temporary street safety pilot projects in Tennessee and other eligible U.S. communities can join this yearlong Community Connectors cohort, receiving up to US $25,000 plus training and travel support. With a mission to repair divisive infrastructure, Smart Growth America provides teams with skills to redesign dangerous arterial roads and reconnect neighborhoods.

Tennessee public infrastructure and transportation-focused 501(c)(3) nonprofits can access funding for STEM education, transportation safety, and community infrastructure projects through General Motors Foundation. Grants support work in areas like public infrastructure, automotive safety, and electrification in eligible Tennessee counties such as Maury, Shelby, and Williamson, with applications accepted January through September.

State and local agencies, governmental entities, local governing boards, nonprofits, tribes, and higher education institutions working on public infrastructure and economic development in Tennessee’s ARC-designated Appalachian counties can seek funding for critical infrastructure and workforce projects. Appalachian Regional Commission supports water and wastewater systems, transportation networks, broadband, and related public infrastructure that strengthen regional economies and communities.

Tax-exempt environmental organizations in Tennessee and across the U.S. can seek support for innovative projects that move people from environmental awareness to activism. Grants from Ittleson Foundation help public infrastructure and environmental justice efforts by backing pilot, model, and demonstration projects that build grassroots capacity, train current and future activists, and engage new constituencies.

The Entergy Charitable Foundation Grant focuses on supporting initiatives that foster thriving communities through education, poverty solutions, and environmental programs. The foundation prioritizes funding for 501(c)(3) organizations and similar entities. Key areas include education development, innovative poverty solutions, and environmental restoration efforts, such as coastal wetland preservation. Organizations are encouraged to apply at least three months before funding is needed, ensuring timely support for impactful community projects.

The OpenAI A People-First AI Fund supports U.S.-based nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status, focusing on AI literacy, community innovation, and economic opportunity. It aims to enhance public understanding of AI, promote participatory design in AI applications by communities, and expand access to meaningful work through inclusive practices. Organizations at all stages of AI adoption are encouraged to apply, especially those addressing the needs of traditionally marginalized populations. This initiative emphasizes equitable distribution of AI benefits.

The Fund for a Just Society Grant, offered by the Unitarian Universalist Association, supports nonprofit organizations that focus on social and economic justice through community organizing. This grant prioritizes innovative projects that seek systemic change and empower disenfranchised communities. Eligible organizations must operate with an annual budget under $500,000 and demonstrate a clear campaign for change. This funding aims to foster a more just society by addressing root causes and enhancing visibility for Unitarian Universalist principles.

The M J Murdock Charitable Trust offers the Strategic Projects: Program & Staff Grants to support nonprofits in the Pacific Northwest. These grants focus on capacity-building for mission-driven projects and infrastructure investments. Eligible organizations must demonstrate a commitment to community flourishing, with funding available for new programs or expansion of existing ones. The Trust prioritizes initiatives that align with its strategic goals, fostering sustainable nonprofit growth and impact in the region.

The Emergent Fund Grant, established in 2016, supports BIPOC-led social justice movements through rapid response funding. It addresses urgent community needs by providing low-barrier grants to organizations facing crises such as family separation and systemic oppression. The fund prioritizes initiatives that foster Black liberation, multiracial solidarity, and empower communities to build transformative power. By investing in innovative strategies, the Emergent Fund aims to challenge oppressive structures and advance social justice, ensuring that impacted communities are at the forefront of their own advocacy.

The When Georgia Smiled Grant, established by the Robin McGraw Revelation and Dr. Phil Foundation, focuses on aiding victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse. The foundation prioritizes programs that provide shelter, education, and mental health services to ensure safe and fulfilling lives for affected individuals. Additionally, it supports initiatives for children and disaster relief, fostering community resilience and family reunification efforts. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations operating in the U.S. with a commitment to inclusivity.

The Creation & Development Fund, administered by the National Performance Network, supports the creation and mobility of artistic works that promote racial and cultural justice. It fosters collaboration between artists and communities through financial support, enabling artists to develop meaningful relationships and present their work. The fund emphasizes equity, access, and the importance of public engagement, ensuring that diverse voices are represented while addressing systemic injustices in the arts.

The Change Happens Foundation Grant focuses on supporting charitable initiatives aligned with environmental science, education, and human services. With a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, the foundation prioritizes funding for organizations holding 501(c)(3) status, while advocating for innovative solutions to pressing global challenges. Grants aim to foster systemic change, empower underrepresented communities, and bridge gaps in access to nutrition and healthcare. The foundation operates nationally and internationally, seeking to create significant impact through strategic investments.