Best Wilson County Grants for Nonprofits in Tennessee

The Drue Smith/Society of Professional Journalists’ Scholarship Fund, established in memory of pioneering journalist Drue Smith, supports college juniors, seniors, and graduate students from Middle Tennessee pursuing careers in journalism or broadcast news. This fund honors Drue's legacy as the first woman president of the Society of Professional Journalists in Tennessee, promoting professional development for aspiring journalists and fostering the next generation of media professionals in a rapidly changing landscape.

The B’nai B’rith Maimonides Lodge #46 Scholarship supports legally blind students pursuing post-secondary education. Established by the oldest Jewish service organization in Nashville, this scholarship honors 38 years of community service through a summer camp for visually-impaired children. The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee administers the fund, ensuring assistance reaches those in need while fostering an inclusive community. Eligible applicants must provide documentation of their legal blindness to apply.

The Brandon Key Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, honors a young man dedicated to community service and civil rights. This scholarship supports Middle Tennessee students with a minimum GPA of 2.5, who demonstrate a commitment to serving their community and plan to attend an accredited college. Preference is given to applicants from low socioeconomic backgrounds aiming for Historically Black Colleges or Universities, promoting inclusivity and opportunity for future generations.

The Brown Center for Autism: Benjamin M. Liske Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, supports graduating seniors from Middle Tennessee diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. This scholarship honors Ben Liske, who excelled academically despite his challenges. Since its inception in 2008, the Brown Center has provided vital resources and training to families and professionals, aiming to enhance the lives of those affected by autism and promote a thriving, inclusive community.

The TAC Arts Project Support grant provides funding for diverse arts projects that enhance community vitality in urban areas. Eligible applicants, including Tennessee-based nonprofit organizations and local government entities, must match the requested grant amount dollar-for-dollar. Projects may encompass various art forms such as visual arts, music, and theater, promoting engagement and accessibility. Applicants should carefully review ineligibility criteria to ensure their proposals align with the funding philosophy.

The H. Franklin Brooks Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, offers renewable scholarships to graduating high school seniors from Middle Tennessee. This fund particularly supports self-identified LGBTQ+ students, especially those whose families have ceased financial support for their education. With over 30 years of community impact, CFMT aims to foster a thriving, inclusive environment through collective philanthropy.

The Rural Arts Facilities Fund, established by the Tennessee Arts Commission, aims to support rural communities in enhancing their arts and cultural facilities. Grants of up to $200,000 are available for projects that benefit local arts programming, foster community identity, and promote economic growth. Eligible applicants include local governments and nonprofit organizations in rural Tennessee. By investing in these facilities, the program seeks to improve access to arts experiences, create jobs, and stimulate tourism in underserved areas.

The Tennessee Arts & Rural Health Initiative Grant, funded by the Tennessee Arts Commission, aims to enhance health and wellness in rural hospitals through arts-based programs. With a budget of $75,000 from the NEA, the initiative supports 4-6 hospitals, offering grants between $5,000 to $25,000. Projects may include artist-led classes, meditation gardens, and healing spaces, leveraging the therapeutic power of the arts to improve patient outcomes and community engagement in healthcare settings.

The Middle Tennessee Fund Grant, offered by the HCA Healthcare Foundation, supports nonprofits in addressing community needs related to basic necessities, healthcare, education, and the arts. Since its inception in 1997, it has prioritized organizations with established relationships with HCA Healthcare. Eligible applicants must be 501c3 organizations with a minimum budget of $250,000, serving the Middle Tennessee area, and demonstrating engagement with HCA Healthcare through board involvement or volunteerism.

The First Generation College Opportunity Fund, established by a generous donor, aims to support first-generation college students in the Nashville area. Managed by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, this fund provides scholarships to students with a minimum 3.0 GPA attending public or private high schools in the region. It empowers young individuals to pursue higher education, fostering a more inclusive and thriving community for generations to come.

Impact100 Nashville's Transformation and Innovation Grant supports nonprofits that drive social change in Middle Tennessee. With a focus on innovative programs addressing issues like homelessness and poverty, this grant offers $100,000 for transformative projects. Organizations must have a solid history, a sustainable plan, and the capacity to implement impactful solutions within 24 months. The initiative empowers women philanthropists to collectively invest in community improvement, fostering a vibrant network dedicated to social transformation.

Impact100 Nashville's Spark Grant Category seeks to empower non-profit organizations addressing critical issues in Middle Tennessee, such as homelessness and poverty. By offering $35,000 grants, the program aims to fund innovative, self-sustaining projects that create lasting social change. Eligible organizations must demonstrate a sustainable plan and a track record of financial stability. This initiative encourages philanthropic collaboration among women to drive community transformation and elevate under-served populations.

The Phoenix Club of Nashville Grant supports nonprofits making a positive impact on the lives of children in Middle Tennessee. Founded in 2001, the Phoenix Club has a legacy of fundraising for local charities, having raised millions for various causes. To apply, interested organizations can complete an initial request questionnaire available on their website. This opportunity allows nonprofits to connect with a network of leaders dedicated to community service and enhancement.

The TAC Small Urban Partnership Support Grant provides competitive operating support to arts organizations in Tennessee's urban counties. Eligible organizations must have a minimum budget of $30,000 and can request up to 20% of their cash operating expenses. A one-to-one dollar match is required. Applicants must demonstrate a history of funding from the Tennessee Arts Commission and meet specific eligibility criteria related to IRS status and recognized art forms.

The Cox Enterprises Project Learning Garden Grant Program offers schools the opportunity to create outdoor learning laboratories through established gardens. This initiative promotes inquiry-based STEAM education and provides essential resources such as raised garden beds, a mobile cooking cart, and professional development for teachers. By integrating real-world experiences with curriculum goals, students engage actively in their learning. Cox employees may also volunteer to install and maintain gardens, fostering community involvement and healthy eating habits among students.

The Sponsors Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, has awarded over $2.5 million in scholarships over 20 years to support financially disadvantaged students. This initiative continues the legacy of George Langstaff, who aimed to enhance educational opportunities and economic prospects for youth in Middle Tennessee and Allen County, Kentucky. By fostering collective philanthropy, the fund empowers young individuals to pursue higher education and contribute positively to their communities.

The Brinker International Charitable Giving Program focuses on giving back to communities through support for kids, hunger, and education. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501c(3) non-profits and submit requests at least six weeks prior to events. The program does not support individuals, political or religious organizations, or explicit discrimination policies. Funding is provided through monetary donations or in-kind contributions like dining certificates.

The PLTW Biomedical Science grant aims to enhance the existing program by funding the addition of new courses or extra class periods, along with teacher training for the 2025-2026 academic year. Eligible applicants include public and charter schools in specific Tennessee counties. Grantees must adhere to reporting requirements and participate in surveys to ensure continual program improvement and stakeholder communication.

The PNC Foundation's Grow Up Great Grant is a significant initiative aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for children from birth to age 5. With a commitment of $500 million, this program focuses on improving school readiness through support in vocabulary development, social-emotional learning, and the arts. By partnering with community-based nonprofits, PNC aims to foster stronger, smarter, and healthier communities, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.

The Watertown High School Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, provides scholarships for graduating seniors from Watertown High School. Designed to foster academic achievement and community involvement, this fund supports students with a minimum GPA of 3.25 and an ACT score of at least 21. It aims to encourage young individuals to excel in both academics and volunteer activities, enhancing their future prospects and contributions to society.

The William Thomas McHugh and Lou Gower McHugh Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, supports students from Middle Tennessee attending accredited law schools. It honors Bill McHugh's legacy, a devoted lawyer and veteran. Applicants must maintain a C average and preference is given to those attending Cumberland School of Law. This scholarship aims to promote legal education and uphold the values of integrity and service in the legal profession.

The Lowell Hill, Virginia Wilson Hill and Pegine Hill Memorial Scholarship Fund, established in 2022 by Virginia Tameron Hedge, honors her grandparents and mother, emphasizing the importance of education and community service. Administered by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, this renewable scholarship targets students pursuing degrees in education, the arts, and historic preservation, particularly within the 40 counties served by CFMT, with a preference for applicants from Bedford and Williamson counties.

Ingram Charities Grant supports nonprofit organizations and programs that enhance the quality of life in Nashville, focusing on arts, education, and health services. Grants are available for initiatives making a significant impact in Middle Tennessee. However, funding is not provided for individuals, private foundations, political activities, or religious organizations, among others. This grant aims to foster community development and enrich the lives of residents through meaningful contributions.

The First Horizon Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations in Middle Tennessee, focusing on areas such as arts, education, environment, financial literacy, and health. The foundation aims to improve community well-being, invest in future leaders, and promote sustainability. Grants are available to eligible nonprofits in cities like Nashville and Murfreesboro. However, corporate contributions do not support individuals, trips, or political organizations, ensuring funds are directed towards impactful community initiatives.

The WiTT Endowment Scholarship Fund, established by Women in Technology of Tennessee, aims to support women pursuing technology careers and enhance gender diversity in the IT industry. Operated by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, this scholarship seeks to empower female students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher, who reside in the 40-county area served by CFMT, and are enrolled in technology-related degree programs.

The A. O. Smith Foundation, established in 1955, provides grants to support charitable, educational, and human services organizations primarily in communities where A. O. Smith Corporation operates. With a mission focused on enhancing community well-being, the Foundation promotes education, arts, culture, and health initiatives. It encourages employees to engage in volunteerism, fostering a culture of community involvement. Notably, the Foundation does not fund politically active organizations or those primarily aiming to influence legislation.

The SCC Nashville Grant Program, managed by Speedway Children's Charities, supports nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving the lives of children in middle Tennessee. With over $80,000 distributed in 2024, the program prioritizes funding for organizations addressing homelessness, education, and critical health needs. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits focused on children's welfare. The grant process includes a pre-proposal and an invitation-only full proposal, culminating in a celebration at the Annual Night of Joy.