Grants
For over 40 years, we have been dedicated to sustaining and improving the quality of life in Nashville and the broader Middle Tennessee area by investing in nonprofit organizations. We focus on agencies that address significant community challenges in comprehensive and collaborative ways.
Our Approach
In 2026, we will be using a new grants management system to coordinate all grant requests.
The Foundation has outlined the following requirements and exclusions in regards to our grant making.
To be considered for a grant, all organizations should:
- Primarily serve Davidson County residents.
- Be a registered 501(c)(3) organization.
- Be in operation for at least three years.
- Have a budget of at least $250,000.
We do not provide grants to support:
- Unsolicited operating requests.
- Event sponsorships.
- Hospitals or nursing homes.
- Religious organizations for religious purposes.
TYPES OF GRANTS
Capacity Building Grants
Capacity-building grants help organizations strengthen the systems, strategies, and capabilities needed to advance their missions over time. Support may include strategic planning, earned revenue development, technology improvements, or other targeted investments in organizational effectiveness.
Additionally, we provide annual support for Hands On Nashville’s GeekCause, which matches Nashville tech experts with community partners in need of their services. We often recommend agencies reach out to GeekCause before applying for a technology-specific grant.
Capital Grants
Capital grants help organizations invest in the physical assets needed to serve the community, including construction, renovation, and land acquisition.
Operational Grants
Operating grants are made by invitation only and provide flexible support to help nonprofit organizations cover core expenses, strengthen internal capacity, and sustain day-to-day operations.