[East Tennessee Foundation](https://easttennesseefoundation.org)

June 2027 (Full application deadline, projected)

Up to $20,000 per award; typical grant term is 2 years.

Supports innovative projects that address youth challenges—such as early childhood education, health, and Adverse Childhood Experiences—in East Tennessee’s 25-county region.

Next grant cycle details will be posted by January 2027; no awards in 2026.

--- ## Description The Youth Endowment Fund, administered by the East Tennessee Foundation, is designed to support creative and impactful projects that address significant challenges faced by youth in the Foundation’s 25-county service area. Priority is given to initiatives in early childhood education, drivers of health, and the prevention or mitigation of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). Projects must be purposefully crafted to benefit youth and demonstrate meaningful, measurable impact on their well-being within the region. --- ## Due Dates - June 2027 (anticipated full application deadline) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Applicants may request up to $20,000 per project. - Grants are typically awarded for two-year terms (e.g., August 1, 2025 – July 31, 2027). - The program does not award grants every year; the next cycle is projected for 2027. --- ## Eligibility - Eligible applicants: - 501(c)(3) public charities, units of government, or public educational institutions. - New/emerging groups without nonprofit status may apply with a qualified fiscal sponsor. - Organizations must: - Primarily serve children and youth, or have demonstrated ability to serve this population. - Operate within ETF’s 25-county service area, or—under special circumstances—be based outside the region but directly benefit residents within it. - Additional requirements: - EIN, legal name, address, and contact information. - Most recent financial statements/audit/IRS Form 990. - Current operating budget, board of directors, and key staff list. - Adherence to the Foundation’s [non-discrimination policy](https://easttennesseefoundation.org/about-us/diversity-and-non-discrimination-statement/). - Ineligible requests include: grants to individuals, debt retirement, endowment or general fundraising, capital campaigns, and projects with explicit religious content or participation requirements. --- ## Application Process - Applications are submitted through the [East Tennessee Foundation’s online grant portal](https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=easttennesseefoundation). - New users must create an account; returning users log in with existing credentials. - Review the [application guide (PDF)](https://easttennesseefoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ETF-Grant-Application-Guide.pdf) for instructions. - Prepare required documents: project and organization budgets, financials, board and staff lists. - Complete all required questions (marked with an asterisk) and upload supporting documents. - Once submitted, applications cannot be edited. --- ## Additional Information - The Youth Endowment Fund will not award grants in 2026; the next cycle will open in 2027, with details posted by January 31, 2027. - Progress and final reports are required during and after the grant term. - For questions or technical assistance, contact the Grantmaking Team before deadlines. --- ## External Links - [Youth Endowment Fund program page](https://easttennesseefoundation.org/grants/youth-endowment-fund) - [General eligibility and funding criteria](https://easttennesseefoundation.org/nonprofits/grants-we-offer/general-eligibility-and-funding-criteria/) - [Apply for grants (ETF grants overview)](https://easttennesseefoundation.org/nonprofits/apply-for-grants/) - [Online grant portal](https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=easttennesseefoundation) - [Grant application guide (PDF)](https://easttennesseefoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ETF-Grant-Application-Guide.pdf) --- ## Contact Information | Name/Team | Email | Phone | |--------------------------|------------------------------------------|-------------------------------| | Grantmaking Team | [grantmaking@etf.org](mailto:grantmaking@etf.org) | (865) 524-1223 x144 or toll-free (877) 524-1223 x144 | | ETF Team Members | [Team Directory](https://easttennesseefoundation.org/about-us/team-members/) | |

Youth Endowment Fund

Sign in to see full grant listing