Best Youth Sports Grants in Tennessee

The Hubert E. Sapp Regular Grant Cycle, by Southern Partners Fund, aims to empower rural communities in the Southeastern U.S. through grassroots leadership and organizing. The fund provides support to nonprofit organizations focused on social, economic, and environmental justice. Eligible applicants are community-based organizations with budgets under $350,000. The initiative honors Hubert E. Sapp's legacy, promoting equitable relationships that drive real transformation and community decision-making.

What does this program do?

It provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:

• To help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.
• Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.

 What kind of funding is available? 

Grants are available to provide technical assistance to rural micro-entrepreneurs or microenterprises, up to $205,000 annually. Funding at the requested level is not guaranteed, and at least 15 percent matching funds are required.

Loans of $50,000 to $500,000 may be used for establishing a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund managed by the Microenterprise Development Organization. Total aggregate debt is capped at $2.5 million.

Are there other requirements?

Microenterprise Development Organizations must demonstrate experience in managing a Revolving Loan Fund, or:

• Certify that it or its employees have received education and training from a qualified microenterprise development training entity so that the applicant has the capacity to manage such a revolving loan fund.
• Demonstrate that it is actively and successfully participating as an intermediary lender in good standing under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloan Program or other similar loan programs as determined by the Administrator.

What are the loan terms?

• Maximum term is 20 years.
• Two-year payment deferral.
• Must establish a loan loss reserve fund.

What terms are required on loans to ultimate recipients?

• Up to $50,000.
• Fixed interest rate.
• Limited to 75 percent of project cost.

How may the funds be used?

Microlenders may make microloans for qualified business activities and expenses including, but not limited to:

• Working capital.
• Debt refinancing.
• Purchasing equipment and supplies.
• Improving real estate.

About

Tennessee’s rural communities are the heart of the state’s economy, culture, and identity. The federal Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) presents Tennessee with a historic opportunity to improve healthcare access, quality, and outcomes in our rural communities for generations to come.

Tennessee’s RHTP plan is foundational building a locally-led model for how rural America can become healthy, vibrant, and self-sustaining, and bring Better Care, Closer to Home.

The Tennessee RHTP Plan proposes investment that reverses rural hospital decline, extends care access, modernizes technology, and strengthens local economies, while improving outcomes for mothers, children, and older adults.

The Tennessee Department of Health (TDH) released the first funding opportunity today of the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP). This begins a roll-out of competitive grant programs to deliver long-term, sustainable improvements in Tennessee’s rural health systems.

County Health Council CARE Grants

Funds Community Health Improvement Plan priorities through County Health Councils.

Funding may be used for:

• Evidence-based prevention and chronic disease programs
• Behavioral health and substance use treatment
• Rural workforce recruitment and retention
• Training on emerging care technologies
• Telehealth and digital infrastructure improvements
• Innovative care delivery models

RHT funding will help Tennessee:

• Strengthen rural hospitals and prevent closures
• Expand access to maternal, behavioral, and chronic care services
• Improve workforce stability in underserved areas
• Modernize rural healthcare technology
• Support innovative care models that improve outcomes

The Cleveland-Cliffs Foundation, established in 1962, focuses on enhancing educational opportunities, environmental protection, and community health in the regions it operates. As a leading steel manufacturer, Cleveland-Cliffs is committed to sustainability and responsible corporate citizenship. The foundation supports 501(c)(3) organizations that address key challenges in education, the environment, and community well-being, ensuring impactful investments that help communities thrive across North America.

The James Avery Fundraising Support provides limited cash contributions, sponsorship of special events, and in-kind support to organizations enriching community life within 50 miles of a James Avery retail location. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on arts, community improvement, veteran support, and wellness. Requests must be made at least 60 days prior to events, and organizations can receive support only once per year.

Charitable organizations serving disadvantaged people, abuse survivors, veterans, or abused animals in Tennessee and other eligible states can seek program support or services funding. Grants from Sunstate Equipment Foundation help charities addressing poverty, medical aid, housing assistance, domestic violence, military and veterans’ assistance, and care for abused or neglected animals; applicants may apply once every 12 months.

The Connecting Joy Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to enhance the hospital experience for children battling illness through engaging gaming programs. This initiative supports children's hospitals and nonprofits by funding equipment, staffing, and connectivity, ensuring children can enjoy gaming at their bedside. With grants ranging from $25,000 to $150,000, the program focuses on offering joy and distraction, helping young patients cope with their hospital stays while facilitating connections with peers.

The Dunkin’ Prom Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to bring joy to teenage patients unable to attend their own prom due to illness. By funding hospitals to host prom-like events, the program ensures these patients experience this significant milestone. Grants typically range from $20,000 to $50,000, supporting the creation of memorable events with themes, food, entertainment, and formal wear for the teens, making a positive impact in their lives.

The Dunkin' Joyful Spaces Grant supports children's hospitals and community health centers in creating joyful environments for pediatric patients. Launched in 2022, this initiative helps fund play areas, healing gardens, and other kid-friendly spaces, enhancing the hospital experience. Grants typically range from $25,000 to $65,000 annually, with a maximum of $150,000 over three years. This opportunity encourages creativity in designing spaces that provide comfort and joy to children and their families during hospital stays.

The Dogs for Joy Grant, funded by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, supports the integration of trained facility dogs in pediatric hospitals. These dogs provide emotional support, help children cope with medical procedures, and enhance overall well-being. The program aims to increase the presence of in-residence dogs, as research highlights their positive impact on reducing anxiety and improving patient outcomes. Grants typically cover multi-year funding, promoting innovative animal-assisted therapy approaches in healthcare settings.

Jack’s Family Fund

At Jack’s Family Restaurants, we’ve always thought of ourselves as one big family — employees and guests alike. Giving back to the communities in which we do business is part of our DNA. That’s why we’ve established the Jack’s Family Fund.

We think of our guests as part of the Jack’s family, and we’ll be there in times of need. With your help, we can make a difference in people’s lives and support those we call family, friends, and neighbors.

Jack's Family Fund Grant

The Jack's Family Fund is a non-profit charitable organization established to provide emergency financial assistance to members of the communities that Jack’s Family Restaurants (JFR) serve. Fund grants are made to assist those who have temporarily found themselves in need, but under normal circumstances are self-sustaining.

Our grants assist with:

• Immediate, short- term needs of individuals who may be victims of disasters or other emergency hardship situations including floods, fires, riots, hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes and similar large-scale events, or
• Emergency hardship caused by illness, death, accident, violent crime or other types of personal injury.
• Community 501(c)(3) organizations working to respond to these types of needs on a broad scale.

Types of expenses grants may be awarded for include (but are not limited to):

• funeral expenses
• past due utilities (electric, water, natural gas)
• past due rent/mortgage
• emergency housing

Grants from the Fund are not intended to replace personal or homeowners insurance, federal disaster relief or other types of aid, but rather to assist on an immediate and short-term basis when other sources of assistance are not available.

The CFMT Animal Welfare Grant Program, managed by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, aims to enhance animal welfare across the region. With a focus on spay/neuter services, retention programs for low-income pet owners, and educational initiatives on humane treatment, the program supports 501(c)(3) organizations dedicated to animal care. Grants up to $15,000 are available to foster community efforts that ensure the safety and health of animals, making a lasting impact on the lives of pets and their owners.

Radio Systems Corporation aims to enhance community welfare through its Product Donation Requests program. With over $2 million contributed last year, the initiative focuses on supporting non-profits dedicated to animal welfare and youth education. This year, the goal is to positively impact 14.5 million individuals and pets. The program welcomes applications from eligible organizations, while ensuring that for-profit entities and political campaigns are not considered for donations.

The Kent Flanagan Memorial Scholarship, established by family and friends of the late journalist Kent Flanagan, supports Tennessee students pursuing degrees in journalism. Eligible applicants include juniors, seniors, and graduate students with a B average or higher. This scholarship honors Flanagan's commitment to fair and unbiased reporting, reflecting the mission of the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee to foster positive change through education and community support.

The LadyAID Scholarship Fund, established by the GRAMMY Award-winning trio Lady A, supports students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). It aims to alleviate financial barriers for students from Tennessee and Georgia, promoting access to higher education. The scholarship is designed for those with a household income of $60,000 or less and is renewable, requiring annual reapplication. This initiative reflects a commitment to empowering Black communities and fostering educational opportunities.

The Resilient and Connected Appalachians Grant Program, offered by The Nature Conservancy, provides up to $100,000 for projects that acquire land and easements throughout the Appalachian region. This program emphasizes equitable conservation, aiming to support historically marginalized communities and enhance access to nature while addressing climate change impacts. Projects must demonstrate community engagement and align with the program's goals to protect vital habitats and foster resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

The MEM Safety Grants program, offered by Missouri Employers Mutual, provides critical funding to enhance workplace safety. With one-to-one matching funds available from $500 to $10,000, it supports policyholders in acquiring necessary safety equipment. Applications are accepted year-round, with decisions made monthly. To qualify, applicants must maintain an active policy and clearly demonstrate the need for safety improvements. This initiative aims to foster safer work environments across Missouri, reflecting the company’s commitment to worker safety.

The Ron Goellner Conservation Fund Award, administered by the Cryptobranchid Interest Group, offers grants up to $2,000 for projects focused on the conservation of giant salamanders. This initiative supports innovative research, field conservation, and educational initiatives that aim to protect these species and their habitats. Open to all applicants, the fund prioritizes projects that demonstrate broad conservation impact and partnerships. Applications are automatically considered for two separate grants of up to $1,000 each.

The Women’s Fund, part of the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, is dedicated to empowering women and girls by funding long-term solutions that enhance economic self-sufficiency, promote health, and prevent violence. With a commitment to collective philanthropy, the Fund prioritizes support for organizations with budgets under $3 million and a focus on women's issues. Grants can reach up to $20,000 for established organizations and $5,000 for newer ones, ensuring impactful contributions to the community.

The CFMT Sports Fund, part of the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, aims to promote teamwork and community engagement among children. By providing grants up to $5,000, it supports 501(c)(3) organizations that foster a sense of belonging and hope through team-based activities, particularly during critical afterschool hours. This initiative not only keeps youth engaged but also addresses pressing community challenges, driving positive change for a thriving and inclusive future.

Investing in Our Communities

Regions Bank and Regions Foundation are committed to helping individuals, families, and businesses achieve financial success.

We work alongside nonprofit organizations, local businesses, government and service agencies to address social and economic issues, assist in building inclusive economic prosperity and help more members of our communities benefit from the rewards of a growing economy.

We make strategic and disciplined community investments in programs that seek to achieve three target outcomes:

Economic and Community Development

• Affordable housing
• Job creation
• Small business development
• Homebuyer education and retention
• Neighborhood revitalization and stabilization

Education and Workforce Readiness

• Student competency and skill building
• College and career readiness
• Educational access and success
• Credential building and employment
• Educator training and resources

Financial Wellness

• Financial education to youth, adults, and vulnerable populations
• Financial planning tools and resources, including Regions Next Step®
• Integrated asset-building

The CFMT Ernest and Selma Rosenblum Fund for the Performing Arts, established by Dr. Marvin J. Rosenblum in honor of his parents, supports the performing arts in Middle Tennessee. With a mission to foster a thriving and inclusive community, the fund encourages grant requests for program support, enabling nonprofits to access up to $15,000. This initiative aims to enhance exposure and education in the arts, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the region.

With support from Toyota Motor North America, the National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) is pleased to announce $250,000 in grant funding to make public lands more accessible and enjoyable for people of all abilities. The 2026 grant program will focus on communities near Toyota Motor North America facilities and is restricted to 16 communities, as detailed below. 

Overview

Through the 2026 Driving Mobility and Accessibility on Public Lands grant, NEEF aims to:

• Increase the capacity of local organizations and government agencies to address mobility and accessibility considerations on public lands; and
• Improve the level of access, comfort, and enjoyment experienced by public lands visitors of all abilities, together with their families and friends.

The grant will provide up to $20,000 per grantee to increase physical or digital access, provide adaptive recreation equipment or programming, or perform accessibility assessments on public lands in communities near 16 Toyota Motor North America facilities.

Americorps State And National Funding

Volunteer Tennessee currently funds eighteen (18) AmeriCorps State programs across Tennessee. This Tennessee State AmeriCorps Notice of Funding Opportunity (Notice) will focus on grant-making for fiscal year 2025 in six areas: Disaster Services, Economic Opportunity, Education, Environmental Stewardship, Healthy Futures, and Veterans and Military Families.

AmeriCorps improves lives, strengthens communities, and fosters civic engagement through service and volunteering. AmeriCorps brings people together to tackle some of the country’s most pressing challenges through national service and volunteerism. AmeriCorps members serve with organizations dedicated to the improvement of communities and those serving.

Members may receive a living allowance and other benefits. After successful completion of their service, members earn a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award they can use to pay for higher education expenses or apply to qualified student loans.

Volunteer Tennessee will accept applications from agencies proposing new and continuation AmeriCorps programs for the 2025-26 program year. Non-profit organizations and government agencies in Tennessee are eligible to apply for funds to operate local AmeriCorps programs that meet locally identified needs in disaster services, economic opportunity, education, environmental stewardship, healthy futures, and veterans and military families.

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, initiated by the Arbor Day Foundation, encourages colleges and universities to cultivate their community forests. This program enhances campus aesthetics, promotes mental health, and contributes to environmental sustainability. By meeting specific standards, institutions can achieve national recognition, fostering pride and involvement among students and staff. Participation not only aids in energy conservation but also educates future generations about environmental stewardship. Join the movement to create greener, healthier campuses for all.

The Arts Education Community Impact Grant, provided by the Tennessee Arts Commission, aims to enhance arts education through sustainable, community-driven initiatives. This three-year funding opportunity encourages partnerships among K-12 public schools, nonprofit arts organizations, and local agencies to address gaps in arts education. By emphasizing collaborative efforts and shared leadership, the grant seeks to create lasting systemic change, ensuring high-quality arts learning for all Tennessee K-12 students while supporting innovative projects and community engagement.

The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Tennessee provides essential funding for rural areas to enhance their drinking water systems, sewage disposal, and solid waste management. This program is aimed at households and businesses that struggle to secure commercial credit. Eligible applicants include governmental entities, private nonprofits, and federally-recognized tribes. The funding can be utilized for various purposes including construction, legal fees, and equipment acquisition, ensuring improved public health and environmental quality.