The Spring 2024 grant cycle is now open for submissions!!
Find the application link and review the "Application Process" page before applying.
“The lifting power of many wings can achieve twice the distance of flying alone.”
The Coalition's Board of Directors offers biannual small grant awards of up to $10,000.00 per grant. In keeping with the mission of the Coalition, the grant awards must BUILD CAPACITY in the disability community and include a sustainability plan.
What is Capacity Building?
Definition of capacity building adopted by the Board of Directors in June 2018:
CAPACITY BUILDING is not just about the capacity of a nonprofit today -- it's about the future. Distinct capacity building projects such as identifying a communications strategy, improving volunteer recruitment, developing a leadership succession plan, identifying more efficient uses of technology, and engaging in collaborations with community partners -- all build the capacity of a charitable nonprofit to effectively deliver its mission in the future. When capacity building is successful, it strengthens a nonprofit’s ability to fulfill its mission over time and enhances the nonprofit’s ability to have a positive impact on lives and communities.
~ National Council of Nonprofits
Who can apply?
- Projects/organizations in the State of Tennessee, that are IRS - designated tax-exempt organizations - 501(c)(3) and government entities
- As part of the annual budget, the project/organization's unrestricted funds must be less than $2 million
- Projects/organizations that are ready to build capacity and expand inclusion within the disability community
Please note that effective March 2021, prior Grant Recipients cannot re-apply for two years (four grant cycles), with the exception of topic-specific grant cycles.
The small grants program does NOT fund:
- Individual or family grants
- Membership fees
- Conferences
- Fundraisers
- Replacement of lost funding
- Reimbursement for purchases previously made
- General operating cost
- Political Activities
- Social events
Example of funded proposals:
- To add technology for outreach, communication, managing finances, data storage, and optimizing operations
- Create a resource library of videos/podcasts
- Develop a formal volunteer program
- Purchasing equipment (i.e., hearing assistive technology, computers) that can be used by many individuals and over time
- Assist in the funding of a new chapter of the organization
If you would like to be added to the Small Grants email award notification list please use this link to register your email address: https://form.jotform.com/232266260440044
For more information, contact:
Carrie Carlson | smallgrants@tndisability.org