Literacy Endowment for East Tennessee Grant Program

The Literacy Endowment for East Tennessee is a regional grant initiative administered by East Tennessee Foundation, a philanthropic organization dedicated to enhancing quality of life across a 25-county service area in East Tennessee. Established in 2003, this endowment specifically supports literacy-focused programs that aim to improve reading, writing, and overall language proficiency within local communities. With a longstanding commitment to educational advancement, the fund targets community-based efforts that directly benefit residents through improved literacy services and access. For the 2026 grant cycle, applications for the Literacy Endowment will be accepted beginning May 4, 2026, and the submission window will close on May 29, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time. The foundation will make award decisions by August 2026, with grants formally beginning on August 1, 2026 and ending on July 31, 2027. The grant term is one year in duration. Applicants may request funding for up to $2,500. These funds are intended to support projects that directly promote literacy and demonstrate clear community impact within the eligible East Tennessee service region. Eligible applicants include organizations that are 501(c)(3) public charities, units of government, or public educational institutions. In addition, new or emerging organizations without their own nonprofit status may apply under the umbrella of a fiscal sponsor, provided a formal agreement is in place. All applicants must operate without discrimination and be located within and serve residents of East Tennessee Foundation’s designated 25-county region. The Foundation’s broader eligibility criteria require applicants to furnish documentation such as recent financial statements, IRS Form 990s, operating budgets, and a list of board and project staff. Ineligible requests include those seeking funding for individuals, debt retirement, endowments, general fundraising campaigns, or capital campaigns. While faith-based organizations are welcome to apply, projects must not contain explicit religious content or require religious participation. An example of an acceptable project would be a church-operated food pantry open to the public without religious prerequisites. The application process includes accessing an online portal where applicants can submit proposals and accompanying documentation. A tutorial is available to assist applicants in navigating the grant platform. Questions about the application process or program criteria may be directed to the East Tennessee Foundation’s Grantmaking Team, including Director of Competitive Grants Ashley Siferd Butler or Assistant Director Brooke Anguiano. Contact is available via email at [email protected] or by phone at (865) 524-1223 ext. 144 (toll-free: 877-524-1223 ext. 144).