Johnson County Community Foundation Community Fund

The Johnson County Community Foundation, a community fund managed by the East Tennessee Foundation, is dedicated to supporting projects and programs that directly enhance the quality of life for residents of Johnson County, Tennessee. Rooted in the contributions of local citizens and the Johnson County Champion Community Committee, this fund prioritizes efforts that utilize the county’s assets, strengthen community networks, and address local challenges through innovative, results-driven approaches. This grant opportunity is designed to fund organizations proposing programs that address a range of community-focused objectives. Eligible initiatives may include those that promote health and welfare, benefit families, women, and children, provide educational and cultural enrichment, or support economic development, historic preservation, and environmental stewardship. Additionally, capacity-building efforts that improve an organization’s effectiveness in carrying out its mission are also encouraged. Funding is available to nonprofits, government units, and public educational institutions that operate within Johnson County and serve its residents. Organizations must demonstrate local involvement by including Johnson County citizens as board members, staff, or volunteers. Applicants are required to have a 20% match for requested funds, which may be fulfilled through cash, in-kind goods or services, or a combination thereof. Administrative and salary expenses funded by this grant must not exceed 30% of the total amount requested. The 2026 application cycle opens on April 1 and closes on April 28 at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Organizations may request up to $6,500 in funding. Grants are awarded for a one-year term beginning July 1, 2026, and concluding on June 30, 2027. The Foundation will notify recipients in July. No indication is provided that this program is recurring, and it should be considered a one-time opportunity unless otherwise noted in future cycles. Applications are submitted online through the East Tennessee Foundation’s grant portal, where applicants can also access tutorials and reporting materials. While no pre-application steps such as letters of intent are required, applicants must comply with the Foundation’s general eligibility and documentation standards. These include verification of nonprofit status or fiscal sponsorship, submission of financial statements, and affirmation of non-discriminatory practices. Applicants are encouraged to contact the Foundation's Grantmaking Team for assistance. Key contacts include Ashley Siferd Butler, Director of Competitive Grants, and Brooke Anguiano, Assistant Director of Grantmaking & Operations. For inquiries, the team can be reached by phone at (865) 524-1223 ext. 144 or toll-free at (877) 524-1223 ext. 144.