Best Public Policy Grants in Tennessee

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) charities, government entities, and qualifying foundations in Tennessee can receive support for STEM education, basic needs like hunger and housing, and social justice initiatives. American Electric Power Foundation funds organizations within its service territory or with broader regional or national reach that benefit the public, environment, or AEP customers.

Tennessee 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on economic and workforce advancement, affordable housing, or community arts and culture can access funding through US Bancorp Foundation’s Community Possible Grant Program. Organizations addressing work, home, and play, advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion, and serving designated U.S. Bank communities may be especially competitive, including those with public policy-related programming.

Tennessee Arts Commission

The Tennessee Arts Commission was created in 1967 by the Tennessee General Assembly with the special mandate to stimulate and encourage the presentation of the visual, literary, music and performing arts and to encourage public interest in the cultural heritage of Tennessee. TN Arts Commission Governing Policies can be found here.

The mission of the Tennessee Arts Commission is to cultivate the arts for the benefit of all Tennesseans and their communities. Our vision is a Tennessee where the arts inspire, connect and enhance everyday lives.

Creative Aging Tennessee IV

Building on the successes of Creative Aging Tennessee I, II, and III initiatives, the Tennessee Arts Commission (TAC) continues to expand arts learning opportunities for older adults through its latest initiative, Creative Aging Tennessee IV. Funded in part by E. A. Michelson Philanthropy and the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies; and the State of Tennessee, this initiative connects vital resources to under-resourced communities to provide arts programming to older adults through nonprofit senior centers and governmental entities. Through this initiative, creative aging art classes and programs will continue to support serving older adults in rural communities and urban counties with “art deserts” to offer arts programming for older adults living with social isolation, reduced access to trained artists, and in geographically challenged areas. One of the purposes of this grant is to encourage local communities to apply for small micro-grants for projects that will remove barriers for older adults to increase participation in arts activities.

Application Deadline is 30 days prior to the beginning date of the project activity. This is a Rolling Grant opportunity which means applications will be accepted on a continual basis until funds are depleted and/or until April 1, 2027.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

The Labcorp Charitable Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) entity, aims to enhance healthcare access and education for all. With grant opportunities focusing on food programs, healthcare services for underserved populations, and STEM initiatives, it seeks to support community health and well-being. Organizations eligible for funding must be U.S.-based and hold tax-exempt status. Requests are reviewed biannually, in March and September, to foster impactful community projects.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on early childhood education or community and economic development in Tennessee communities where PNC operates can seek funding for programs serving low- and moderate-income residents. PNC Foundation supports initiatives such as early learning, affordable housing, small business support, neighborhood revitalization, arts, and essential human services that may complement public policy efforts.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

Rural Tennessee hospitals and 501(c)(3) or local government entities partnering with them can receive up to US $25,000 to create or expand arts-based health and wellness programming. Tennessee Arts Commission funding supports projects like murals, meditation gardens, exhibitions, and artist-led classes, which may benefit organizations integrating arts into community health and public policy efforts.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

The Self-Sustainability Granting offered by the Women’s Fund of East Tennessee aims to empower low-income women and girls by providing one-time grants to agencies that support their journey towards independence. This initiative focuses on addressing urgent needs and expanding services, ensuring a lasting impact in the community. By aligning with the fund's mission, these grants foster resilience and promote sustainable futures for families in East Tennessee.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

Professional artists in Tennessee can receive unrestricted fellowship funding to support their ongoing creative work across craft, media, visual, dance, music, theatre, and literary arts. Focused on strengthening the arts ecosystem, Tennessee Arts Commission awards $5,000 fellowships that may benefit artists whose work intersects with public policy or civic and community issues.

Local governments and 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organizations in rural Tennessee counties can receive up to US $200,000 to build, renovate, or expand arts and cultural facilities. Grants from Tennessee Arts Commission help communities improve stages, galleries, museums, and accessibility, which may support public policy goals around rural development and cultural participation.

Tennessee nonprofits, government units, and fiscally sponsored groups serving women, children, and youth in Knox County can seek funding for early childhood education, health drivers, and ACEs prevention projects. Knox County public policy or systems-focused initiatives that improve these outcomes may be eligible for up to US $20,000 from East Tennessee Foundation’s Mount Rest Fund.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations addressing youth mental health can apply for US $100,000 - US $150,000 from Cigna Foundation to expand evidence-informed programs for ages 5–18. With a mission to improve health and vitality, it supports school and community-based efforts in Tennessee and select states that build social-emotional skills and increase access to care.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

The Community Ties Giving Program by Union Pacific Foundation offers local grants aimed at enhancing community well-being through diverse funding priorities. These include safety initiatives, workforce development, community vitality, and environmental sustainability. The program emphasizes supporting organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to create impactful projects that resonate with Union Pacific's heritage and mission. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations serving Union Pacific communities and demonstrate a clear need and capacity to deliver effective programming.

Tennessee public policy and community-focused 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on youth development, housing, food security, or environmental stewardship can access funding through Chick Fil A Foundation’s True Inspiration Awards. Grants of US $30,000 - US $350,000 support programs for underserved youth and families, including education, hunger relief, housing services, and community or environmental initiatives.

Graduate students in urban planning, policy, public administration, economics, or related fields can receive US $20,000 fellowships to work on housing, small business, and workforce development projects with community organizations, including in Tennessee. Tennessee public policy and community development groups may apply as host organizations to partner with the National Community Reinvestment Coalition and mentor a Student Fellow.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, government units, and educational institutions serving youth in Tennessee can access funding through East Tennessee Foundation’s Youth Endowment Fund. Grants up to US $20,000 over two years support early childhood education, drivers of health, and prevention or mitigation of Adverse Childhood Experiences in its 25-county service area, benefiting youth-focused public policy efforts.

Nonprofits, government units, and educational institutions in East Tennessee can receive $5,000 - $6,500 for charitable and economic programs that foster regional economic development. East Tennessee Foundation supports economic services and development across its 25-county service area, and public policy organizations working on economic issues in Tennessee may be eligible.

Nonprofits, government units, and educational institutions serving East Tennessee communities can seek up to US $25,000 for collaborative capacity-building projects that strengthen operations, finances, data systems, and programs. With a mission to strengthen communities, East Tennessee Foundation provides Tennessee public policy and community-focused organizations with support to improve sustainability, partnerships, and long-term impact.

With a mission to strengthen communities, East Tennessee Foundation provides Tennessee nonprofits, government units, and educational institutions with up to US $50,000 for innovative life literacy projects serving Washington County residents. Programs may address education, health, financial literacy, life skills, or civic engagement, and must show unmet needs, measurable impact, matching funds, and a sustainability plan.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, government units, educational institutions, and fiscally sponsored groups in East Tennessee can apply for East Tennessee Foundation’s Arts Fund for $5,000 - $15,000 to support arts and cultural programming. Public policy organizations that use arts to engage communities or underserved populations in Tennessee may be eligible.