Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits in Tennessee

The FFAR Fellows Program offers professional development and leadership training for PhD students in food and agriculture sciences across the U.S. and Canada. Led by North Carolina State University, the program includes in-person meetings, virtual sessions, and mentorship opportunities. Students receive a combined stipend of $65,000 annually, with a minimum of 50% sponsorship from non-academic sources. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, career exploration beyond academia, and the development of essential skills for future leaders in the field.

City of Chicago's UNCF Workplace Campaign Scholarship

The City of Chicago's UNCF Workplace Campaign Scholarship will provide a one-time, merit-based scholarship of $5,000 for students of any classification who have a parent or guardian employed by the City of Chicago and its affiliate agencies. Students must be enrolled full time at any U.S. four-year, accredited college or university in the 2026-2027 school year.

The City of Chicago’s UNCF Workplace Campaign Scholarship was created in partnership with the City of Chicago and UNCF to ensure that dependents of City of Chicago employees can earn a college degree.

This merit-based scholarship is open to full-time, four-year university students of any classification who have a parent or guardian employed by the City of Chicago and its affiliate agencies.

The Drug Delivery Predoctoral Fellowship by the PhRMA Foundation supports promising PhD candidates in drug delivery research at accredited U.S. universities. It provides $30,000 per year for 12 to 24 months, aimed at enhancing the understanding of drug formulation and delivery technologies. The fellowship emphasizes innovative research that leads to improved patient outcomes and fosters collaboration among diverse research teams, ensuring that all individuals have access to groundbreaking medicines.

The Drug Discovery Predoctoral Fellowship by the PhRMA Foundation supports PhD candidates engaged in thesis research in drug discovery. This fellowship offers $30,000 annually for 12 to 24 months, encouraging innovative research that integrates multiple scientific disciplines. Applicants must be full-time, in-residence students at accredited U.S. universities and have completed significant coursework. The funding is conditional upon continued enrollment and is intended for stipend support, with some funds allowable for research-related incidentals.

The McElhattan Foundation focuses on innovative solutions to end workplace fatalities by 2050. It invites proposals that develop new technologies, particularly those that eliminate dangerous tasks at work. The foundation partners with the National Safety Council’s Work to Zero program to enhance safety practices. Organizations seeking funding should be established non-profits with a history of successful collaboration, and grants typically start at $50,000. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, fostering impactful initiatives.

American Chemical Society

The American Chemical Society (ACS) is a non-profit organization founded in 1876 and chartered by the U.S. Congress. ACS is committed to improving all lives through the transforming power of chemistry. Our mission is to advance scientific knowledge, empower a global community, and champion scientific integrity. Our vision is a world built on science.

What We Do

More than 145 years after our founding, we remain a champion for chemistry, its practitioners and our global community of members.

We’re recognized as a leading publisher of authoritative scientific information. Our 80+ peer-reviewed journals are ranked the “most-trusted, most-cited and most-read.”

We empower our members to advance chemistry, elevate their career potential, expand their networks, inspire future generations, collaborate globally and build communities that provide scientific solutions.

We provide broader networks that facilitate connections and open doors in a way no other professional organization can match!

ACS Award for Team Innovation

Purpose

To highlight the value and importance of technical teams and teamwork to the chemical and allied industries by recognizing a multidisciplinary team for successfully moving an innovative idea to a product in commercial use now.

The award was established in 1994 with financial support from the Committee on Corporation Associates of the American Chemical Society.

Description

The award will consist of a cash award of $6,000 which will be shared equally by all team members. Each team member will receive a certificate and a certificate will also be provided to the employers of the team.

The FFAR Fellows Program, led by North Carolina State University, provides PhD students in food and agriculture sciences with essential leadership and professional development training. Over three years, fellows engage in in-person meetings, virtual sessions, and mentorship opportunities, enhancing their skills and networking. Applicants must be enrolled in a PhD program, have a confirmed financial sponsor, and demonstrate readiness to participate. This initiative promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and broadens career pathways beyond academia.

The BJS FY 2026 Annual Surveys of Probation and Parole (ASPP) from 2026 to 2030 will provide crucial insights into individuals under community supervision in the U.S. By collecting comprehensive data on probation and parole populations, this initiative aims to report accurately on the dynamics and characteristics of correctional supervision. The data collection process will address various challenges, ensuring that the information reflects the realities of both large and small supervising agencies across the country.

The NAMA Memorial Fellowship, awarded by the Mycological Society of America, recognizes promising graduate students in mycology. Two fellowships are granted annually based on academic merit and research potential. Recipients must be student members of MSA and can use the funds to enhance their studies. Additionally, they are encouraged to contribute to McIlvainea and attend the annual meeting, fostering connections within the mycological community. This initiative supports diversity and inclusion in the field.

The MSA Graduate Fellowship, awarded by the Mycological Society of America, recognizes outstanding graduate students in mycology. Annually, two fellowships are granted based on academic merit and research potential. These funds serve as supplementary support for graduate studies, and recipients are encouraged to attend the annual meeting to engage with the mycological community. The fellowship aims to promote diversity and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds, ensuring equal opportunity for emerging mycologists.

The Sara Corrie Memorial Grants, administered by the National Speleological Society, support group cave exploration in the U.S. and its territories. Up to six grants of $1,000 each are awarded annually to NSS members. Applications must detail exploration plans, including costs for necessary equipment. Grants are not provided for activities outside of exploration. Successful recipients must report findings and may have their proposals published on the NSS website.

The Farmers Advocating for Organic Grant (FAFO) supports impactful projects that enhance the organic agricultural sector, focusing on initiatives that assist family farmers and promote organic soil health. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations and research institutions. FAFO prioritizes projects that address the needs of organic dairy, meat, and produce farmers while fostering cooperative growth. This grant aims to strengthen the organic industry and ensure the livelihood of organic farmers across the nation.

The Backus Award, presented by the Mycological Society of America, honors two promising graduate students in mycology each year. Candidates are assessed based on their academic achievements, research potential, and future contributions to the field. This fellowship supports their graduate studies and encourages attendance at the MSA annual meeting, fostering connections within the mycological community. Eligible applicants must be student members of MSA and currently enrolled in a university in Canada or the United States.

The Jack and Jill of America Foundation offers STEM Grants aimed at supporting 501(c)(3) organizations that enhance opportunities for African American middle and high school students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. The grants focus on creating a pipeline of talent for college readiness, aligning with the foundation's mission to invest in programs that benefit children and families. Eligible organizations must adhere to specific funding priorities and are encouraged to submit impactful proposals.

The AEG K-14 Education Fund Grant supports geological education across K-14 levels, including elementary, middle, high schools, and community colleges. Established by the AEG Foundation, its purpose is to encourage innovative teaching methods in geology through hands-on activities and professional demonstrations. Grants are available to accredited educators and institutions in the U.S. While AEG membership is encouraged, it is not mandatory. The fund excludes support for political activities and overhead costs.

The Dr. A. Jean Ayres Doctoral Candidate Scholarship, funded by The American Occupational Therapy Foundation, supports emerging OT scientists focusing on sensory integration and processing research. This $5,000 scholarship aids doctoral candidates in conducting impactful studies, contributing to the field of occupational therapy and enhancing care delivery. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a doctoral program, have defended their dissertation proposal, and conduct research at a US institution. The scholarship emphasizes the importance of evidence-based practices for underserved communities.

The Dr. Carolyn Baum Cognitive Function in Daily Life Mentor Award, funded by the American Occupational Therapy Foundation, supports mid-to senior-level occupational therapy researchers mentoring assistant professors or post-doctoral fellows. This $10,000 stipend aims to enhance understanding of cognition's role in daily life through research. Dr. Carolyn Baum, a pioneer in the field, inspires this initiative, promoting the advancement of functional cognition in occupational therapy.

Community Foundation of Northern Nevada

Established in 1998 as a Nevada nonprofit 501(c) 3 Corporation, the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada has distributed more than $200 million in grants and scholarships from over 300 charitable funds to strengthen our Nevada home. 

Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Northern Nevada’s Scholarship Program is intended to help students cover the ever-increasing cost of tuition. Some of our scholarships are based on financial need, but others represent an award for achievement. These scholarships typically go to students who have excelled in an academic area or have shown they can balance academics, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities. There are also scholarships designated for students who have overcome adversity, students pursuing degrees in high-need areas, and adult learners outside the traditional college age group. Community Foundation scholarships can help cover tuition, books, and on-campus housing.

Orville Belding Memorial Scholarship

You are eligible to apply for the Orville Belding Memorial Scholarship if you meet all of the following criteria:

• You are a student-athlete
• You were born and raised in Nevada
• Your family income shows a need for tuition assistance
• You are a Washoe County High School senior
• You have a minimum 1100/SAT or 20/ACT score
• You agree to maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA and provide a copy of your unofficial transcripts at the end of each semester you are receiving a scholarship

The OREF Resident Clinician Scientist Training Grant aims to prepare residents for research-intensive careers in orthopaedic surgery. Grants up to $20,000 are available for one year, covering research expenses without salary. Projects must demonstrate clinical relevance and be feasible for residents as independent studies. Both laboratory and clinical research are encouraged, with potential for publication. Progress reports and annual reviews are required to ensure funding compliance.

The Limited Competition Small Grant Program supports NCATS CTSA Program KL2 scholars, enhancing their transition to independent academic translational scientists. This R03 funding facilitates various research projects, including pilot studies and methodology development, aimed at generating preliminary data for future R01 applications. The program is designed for short-term projects utilizing limited resources, promoting innovative research in clinical and translational science.

Elaine Lonneman Scholarship

To provide financial support to family members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 426.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Youth Engaged in Philanthropy Scholarship

The Youth Engaged in Philanthropy Scholarship Fund provides a college scholarship as part of Marion Community Foundation’s annual Scholarship Program. Each year the high school senior members participate in the selection process to recommend a scholarship recipient.

The scholarship awards are available to graduates and seniors from any high school in Marion who have been a resident of Marion County throughout their entire high school experience and have demonstrated commitment and dedication to community service, volunteerism, and philanthropy.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Y-Men’s Service Club Scholarship

The Y-Men’s Service Club Scholarship Fund supports students from any high school located in Marion County (Ohio) with a 3.0 grade point average or higher. Special consideration is given to family members of Club members in good standing.

The Y-Men created this scholarship with the intent of creating a permanent fund to help local students further their education and to create more awareness of the Y-Men’s Service Club.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Willie “Beaver” Troutman Football Scholarship

This scholarship, created in 2022, honors Willie “Beaver” Troutman and his longstanding coaching career in Marion County.

For generations to come, this scholarship will assist students financially to further their potential in academics and athletics.

The Willie ‘Beaver’ Troutman Football Scholarship is open to any student-athlete who attended a high school located in Marion County (Ohio) for at least 2 years, maintained a GPA of 2.5 or greater, and demonstrates volunteerism in the community and/or extraordinary financial need.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

United Church Homes Scholarship

The United Church Homes Scholarship Fund, created in 2018, supports higher education for Marion area students who intend to pursue a career involving service to older citizens, including, but not limited to, gerontology,

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

St. John Lutheran Church (Windfall) Scholarship

This scholarship fund was created in 2024 by the members of St. John Lutheran (Windfall) Church to support Marion and Morrow County students active with a Christian church. The fund, formerly known as the Horst Scholarship, migrated from the church to the stewardship of Marion Community Foundation.

The scholarship is open to seniors and graduates of high schools located in Marion and Morrow counties (must be a resident of one those counties at the time of application). Applicants must demonstrate that they are affiliated with a Christian church, located in Marion or Morrow County, that adheres to the Apostles’ and Nicene Creeds.

First consideration is given to seniors and candidates for graduation from high school; then, to graduates enrolled as a sophomore, junior, or senior in an undergraduate collegiate program.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Robert M. & Dorothy C. Wopat Scholarship

The largest scholarship fund at Marion Community Foundation, the Wopat Scholarship awards $100,000+ annually in support of local students.