Best Murfreesboro Grants for Nonprofits in Tennessee

The Cumberland Plateau Stewardship Fund Grant aims to restore native forests and improve wildlife habitats while supporting working forests in the Cumberland Plateau. The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) invites proposals that enhance forest, grassland, and freshwater ecosystems, promoting conservation practices on agricultural lands. This initiative is backed by funding from USDA agencies and corporate partners, focusing on improving soil health, water quality, and carbon sequestration in the region.

Murfreesboro, Tennessee 501(c)(3) nonprofits working in arts and culture, education and leadership, environmental sustainability, financial literacy, or health and human services can access funding through First Horizon Foundation to strengthen local communities. Eligible organizations must be located in Murfreesboro or nearby cities such as Brentwood, Franklin, Clarksville, Gallatin, Lebanon, Columbia, or Nashville.

The CFMT Community Foundation of Rutherford County Grant aims to promote positive change in Rutherford and Cannon Counties by supporting local nonprofits. Established in 2017, the foundation encourages grant requests for program and project support, allowing eligible organizations to apply for funding up to $3,000. This initiative reflects the foundation's commitment to building a thriving and inclusive community by transforming generosity into impactful actions.

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.

International Paper Grants focus on community engagement, emphasizing education, hunger relief, health & wellness, and disaster relief. They support nonprofit organizations that demonstrate good financial standing and effective management. Eligible organizations must operate in areas where International Paper has facilities. The foundation prioritizes local needs, particularly critical and environmental issues, while encouraging employee involvement. Ineligible entities include private foundations and those without a local presence. Applications are accepted through mid-September in the U.S. and Canada.

The John and Belinda Havron Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, supports students from the 40 counties of Middle Tennessee with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. This scholarship aims to alleviate financial barriers for students pursuing post-secondary education, reflecting John and Belinda's commitment to fostering educational opportunities. Their legacy emphasizes the importance of community support and encourages scholarship recipients to 'pay it forward' in their own journeys.

The J. Barrett Melton Family Memorial Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, offers renewable scholarships for students in middle Tennessee. Applicants must have a minimum ACT score of 21 and a GPA of 3.0. Preference is given to students from Cannon County. This initiative aims to support local students in achieving their academic goals, fostering a thriving community through education.

The Donald and Frances McDonald Endowed Scholarship Fund, administered by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, supports students majoring in engineering technology or aerospace at Middle Tennessee State University. Eligible applicants must maintain a 3.0 GPA, demonstrate financial need, and be enrolled full-time. This renewable scholarship aims to foster academic success and career development in vital engineering fields, contributing to the growth and inclusivity of the local community.

The Teddy Wilburn Scholarship Fund, established by country music star Teddy Wilburn, aims to provide financial assistance to students at Tennessee State University and Vanderbilt University. This scholarship supports those who have demonstrated a commitment to their education, requiring a minimum B average in the last two years of high school. By promoting access to higher education, it reflects Wilburn's dedication to helping others achieve their academic aspirations, despite his own lack of a college experience.

The Nissan Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations that promote cultural diversity and heritage. Established in 1992, the foundation focuses on enhancing community quality of life where Nissan operates. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status, be active for over three years, and serve specific communities. Ineligible programs include those not aligned with the foundation's mission, such as disease advocacy and political activities. The foundation does not provide multi-year grants, but organizations can reapply for funding in subsequent cycles.

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 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.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and local government entities in urban Tennessee counties, including Rutherford County, can receive US $1,000 - US $18,000 to support community-focused arts projects across disciplines. Tennessee Arts Commission funds activities like performances, festivals, workshops, exhibitions, artist residencies, and accessibility improvements that enhance community vitality and engagement.

High school students seeking academic scholarships for postsecondary education in Murfreesboro, Tennessee may be eligible for The Sponsors Scholarship Fund, administered by Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee. Grants from Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee help Murfreesboro, Tennessee education-focused programs identify and support financially disadvantaged young people of promise pursuing college or other post–high school education.

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 Charlene (Charlie) Jane Toomey Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, honors the legacy of a beloved community member dedicated to education and empowerment. This scholarship aims to support college-bound female students from 40 counties in the region, prioritizing those with a minimum 3.0 GPA and a commitment to extracurricular and community involvement. Through this initiative, we celebrate Charlie's belief in the transformative power of education and her enduring impact on future generations.

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.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving older adults in Murfreesboro, Tennessee and surrounding Middle Tennessee counties can apply for West End Home Foundation’s grants to support aging-related programs and capital needs. Funding supports direct services, collaborative initiatives, advocacy, and infrastructure that help adults age 60+ live with dignity, purpose, and connection.

Care professionals in Murfreesboro, Tennessee pursuing education in a care-related field can receive scholarship support, with awards of US $500 - US $2,000 paid directly to federally accredited institutions. Grants from Jean Griswold Foundation help caregivers further their training, enhance their skills, and advance their careers while improving care for clients.

501(c)(3) nonprofits serving children in middle Tennessee can seek program funding for critical needs, medical care, and educational support. Focused on child- and youth-serving organizations, Speedway Children's Charities invites Murfreesboro, Tennessee nonprofits to apply, with priority for those helping homeless children, foster and orphaned youth, and victims of sex trafficking.

Focused on financial literacy and housing, 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Murfreesboro, Tennessee can seek Union Home Foundation support for programs that build economic self-sufficiency. Eligible organizations in Rutherford County may receive more than US $1,000 for one-year projects that advance financial education, equitable and affordable housing, or supportive housing and shelters.

Grants help Murfreesboro, Tennessee municipal governments and priority entities develop household hazardous waste collection facilities and temporary collection infrastructure. Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation funding can support permanent sites, temporary storage buildings, safety equipment, signage, and operating and disposal reimbursement for HHWCFs in Rutherford County and other eligible Tennessee counties.

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 Cameron Blake Parnell Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, honors the legacy of Cameron Parnell, a beloved pilot and rugby enthusiast. This scholarship supports MTSU students in their junior or senior years who are pursuing aerospace studies with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Preference is given to those who are also members of the rugby team, helping to foster a sense of community and support for aspiring pilots.

Middle Tennessee students pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees in education, theology, music, film, historic preservation/public history, or fine arts may be eligible for this renewable scholarship in Murfreesboro and surrounding counties. With a mission to build a thriving, inclusive community, Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee supports well-rounded students with at least a 3.0 GPA who demonstrate financial need.

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 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.