The Pete and Sally Smith Foundation, administered by Wells Fargo Trust Philanthropic Services Private Foundations, supports charitable initiatives focused on education, the environment, and medical research or disease management. The Foundation was established in memory of Pete and Sally Smith, originally from Michigan and longtime residents of Rhea County, Tennessee. Their personal and professional legacy, including their operation of the Watts Bar Resort and advocacy for hospitality, environmental beautification, and health care, informs the grantmaking priorities of the foundation today.
This philanthropic program funds projects specifically in Rhea County, Tennessee and Oconee County, South Carolina. Priority is given to education in hospitality, culinary arts, horticulture, landscaping, entrepreneurship, mathematics, and liberal arts, supporting programs at the K-12, technical, and undergraduate levels. Environmental grants are aimed at land conservation, wetland and wildlife protection, and public beautification efforts. Medical and health-related funding focuses on research and services addressing kidney disease and Alzheimer’s, reflecting personal experiences of the Smiths.
Grants are available only to 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations. The foundation does not support operational costs, multi-year grants, or international efforts. To maintain meaningful contributions, the foundation limits the number of awards it makes annually. Applications are accepted year-round, but to be considered at the annual September review meeting, they must be submitted by June 30. Decisions are typically communicated by October, and a progress report is required within six months of receiving the funds.
Applicants receive automated email confirmations upon submission. The foundation does not accept applications for operational support or projects outside its geographic or focus area. Specific program categories and preferences are clearly outlined, and compliance with these priorities is critical for successful applications.
For further support or information regarding application submission or program criteria, applicants may contact Wells Fargo Grant Program or Technical Support via phone at 1-888-235-4351 or email at grantadministration@wellsfargo.com. Additional guidance and related philanthropy efforts can be accessed through Wells Fargo’s Philanthropy and Community Impact page.
