Best Chattanooga Grants for Nonprofits in Tennessee

Students in accredited paramedic degree programs who are members of the Nashville Fire Department EMS Division can receive scholarship support for their EMS education, including those connected to Chattanooga, Tennessee. With a mission to build a more thriving and inclusive community, Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee administers the United Paramedics of Nashville and Chief Kappu Deshpande EMS Education Scholarship.

Nonprofit organizations and community partners in Chattanooga, Tennessee can seek funding for community development, education, and economic opportunity initiatives that advance shared prosperity. Focused on inclusive urban vitality, talent development, and upward mobility, Benwood Foundation invites potential long-term, strategic partners to connect about invited proposals reviewed at quarterly Trustee meetings.

The CALT Black Appalachian Storytellers Fellowship, supported by the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation, celebrates and preserves the rich traditions of Black Appalachian storytelling. This fellowship honors those who embody the history and culture of African Americans in the region. Each year, fellows are recognized at the National Black Storytelling Festival and Conference, receiving awards crafted by Dr. Dena Jennings. The program fosters a deeper understanding of these traditions and invites fellows to share their stories at future events.

Students from East Tennessee seeking an internship in the Tennessee State Legislature can apply for the Senator Carl O. Koella, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund, administered by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee. Chattanooga-area students, including those from Hamilton County, may benefit from this higher-education scholarship opportunity supporting public service engagement.

Grants help Chattanooga, Tennessee 501(c)(3) nonprofits working in affordable housing, skilled trades, clean water, sanitation, or community development, where Ferguson has a business presence. Ferguson supports U.S.-based organizations within its geographic footprint, so Hamilton County groups should confirm they operate in an eligible service area before applying.

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.

Nonprofit and conservation-focused organizations restoring forests, grasslands, or freshwater habitats in the Cumberland Plateau, including Chattanooga, Tennessee, can apply for National Fish and Wildlife Foundation grants. Focused on habitat and working lands conservation, this program offers US $250,000 - US $750,000 to improve wildlife habitat, soil health, water quality, and carbon sequestration.

The W. R. Grace Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations with 501(c)(3) status in the U.S. that focus on STEM education and basic needs like food and healthcare. Since its inception in 1961, the Foundation has contributed financial and volunteer resources to enhance community wellbeing, particularly in areas where Grace employees reside. They also match employee donations to accredited educational institutions, promoting civic engagement and support for local charities.

The Area Development Grant Program, managed by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), supports economic growth in Appalachia through investments in critical infrastructure and workforce development. Targeting 423 counties across 13 states, the program encourages local communities to collaborate with state governments to identify and implement impactful projects. Key focus areas include enhancing utilities, promoting entrepreneurship, and strengthening local leadership. This initiative aims to uplift the 26 million residents of Appalachia, fostering sustainable economic opportunities.

The ARISE Grants, offered by the Appalachian Regional Commission, aim to drive regional economic transformation across 13 Appalachian states. With funding of up to $63.5 million for implementation grants and $10 million maximum awards, the initiative supports collaborative projects that enhance community capacity and economic growth. The program encourages innovative partnerships to strengthen local economies and achieve socioeconomic parity, benefiting over 26 million residents in the Appalachian Region.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Hamilton County, Tennessee that preserve or support folk and traditional arts infrastructure may be eligible for $30,000 through South Arts’ In These Mountains Infrastructure Grants. Grants from South Arts help Chattanooga, Tennessee arts and culture nonprofits cover non-program expenses like professional development, minor equipment, software, travel, marketing, and strategic planning for Central Appalachian traditions.

The Saint-Gobain Corporation Foundation Direct Grants program provides support to non-profit organizations in focus areas including STEM education, sustainable construction, and workforce development. The foundation aims to foster community development and environmental stewardship. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations and accredited educational institutions in the U.S. The Foundation prioritizes partnerships that allow employee involvement and volunteer support, aiming to build meaningful relationships with grantees.

Qualified nonprofit land trusts and conservation organizations in Chattanooga, Tennessee can seek capital grants to permanently protect large, high-priority forest blocks on the Southern Cumberland Plateau. The Open Space Institute Land Trust funds conservation easements, fee acquisitions, and related transaction costs for projects in its designated region that safeguard biodiversity and climate-resilient habitats.

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.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations running science education, environmental, or health and safety programs in Chattanooga, Tennessee, may be eligible for BASF Corporation’s charitable contributions. With a mission to combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility, BASF provides funding to enhance quality of life in its site communities, including Hamilton County, Tennessee.

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.

Nonprofit and community organizations in Chattanooga, Tennessee seeking sponsorships or donations for community, health, or wellness events can apply for support; awards may include sponsorships or in-kind assistance. With a mission to help those in need, ATI Physical Therapy provides Chattanooga nonprofits with resources that elevate local health and wellness initiatives.

The Westinghouse Charitable Giving Program aims to strengthen community ties by providing financial support in key areas such as education focused on STEM, environmental sustainability, and community safety. This program welcomes applications from eligible organizations that meet specific grant criteria, including being tax-exempt and located within 50 miles of a Westinghouse site. The initiative underscores Westinghouse's commitment to advancing education, promoting environmental stewardship, and enhancing community well-being.

Local governments and other entities in Chattanooga, Tennessee and eligible Appalachian counties can apply for Tennessee Department of Economic & Community Development funding; awards up to US $1,000,000 for construction and US $500,000 for non-construction projects. Funding supports economic development, public infrastructure, water and wastewater systems, workforce initiatives, tourism, and community revitalization.

The Tucker Foundation Grant Program aims to support nonprofit organizations that foster character development in youth and conserve the environment. The foundation focuses on education, environmental conservation, arts, and social improvement, primarily in Tennessee and Wyoming. Eligible organizations must have IRS 501(c)(3) status, while ineligible activities include political lobbying, purely religious efforts, and requests benefiting individuals. The foundation seeks to empower communities through meaningful projects.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations providing community services in Chattanooga, Tennessee can seek philanthropic grants or event sponsorships that support key service and fundraising goals. Insperity supports community-focused nonprofits in Hamilton County through financial contributions and sponsorships, with eligibility favoring organizations engaged with employees, Insperity clients, or those serving local communities.

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.

First Horizon Foundation Grant 

Through the First Horizon Foundation we are constantly investing in organizations across our footprint that do important work every day to make the places we serve better and stronger.

Contributions from the Foundation include the following areas:

• Arts and Culture
• Education & Leadership
• Environmental Sustainability
• Financial Literacy
• Health & Human Services

Our contributions are targeted to strengthen these pillars of the communities we serve:

• Improving the well-being of our communities
• Investing in the financial future
• Educating and developing the next generation of leaders
• Promoting excellence and enrichment in the arts
• A more sustainable tomorrow and future

Grassroots 501(c)(3) organizations in Chattanooga, Tennessee working for social, economic, racial, or environmental justice can apply for Appalachian Community Fund’s technical assistance grants to build organizational capacity and skills. Eligible groups must be community-led, based in Central Appalachia (including Hamilton County), and focused on systemic social change and community organizing rather than direct services alone.

501(c)(3) nonprofits and fiscally sponsored, community-led groups in Chattanooga, Tennessee can apply for Appalachian Community Fund’s LGBTQ Fund Grant Program; awards up to US $2,000 to build LGBTQ organizing capacity and institutional resources. Grassroots efforts for systemic social, economic, racial, gender, and environmental justice, especially new or youth-focused initiatives, may be eligible.

Academy Sports + Outdoors, a leading sporting goods retailer, supports community initiatives by providing donations to registered 501(c)(3) organizations. Their focus is on promoting safety and responsibility in sports and outdoor activities. Proposals must foster community engagement and must not be affiliated with religious or political groups. Events should take place in areas with Academy stores, ensuring a positive local impact while encouraging active lifestyles and connection among community members.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations offering early childhood education or community economic development programs in Chattanooga, Tennessee can seek funding to serve low- and moderate-income children and families. With a mission to strengthen communities, PNC Foundation provides support for initiatives like preschool learning, educator development, affordable housing, small business assistance, and neighborhood revitalization where PNC has a significant presence.