Federal Grants

Senator Blackburn and her staff are eager to help eligible Tennesseans find information on federal grants.

If you or your organization have prepared a federal grant proposal and would like to request a letter of support from Senator Blackburn, click the application button to submit your request. We are unable to support applications for grants that are provided by non-federal agencies, such as non-governmental organizations or state governments.

You can learn more about federal grants here. To view the federal grants that may be available to you, click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a federal grant?

A grant is a way the government funds your ideas and projects to provide public services and stimulate the economy. A grant is one of many different forms of federal financial assistance. Federal financial assistance is a broad term to refer to the various ways the U.S. government redistributes resources to eligible recipients. This assistance takes many forms, including direct funding, low-interest loans, surplus property, technical advice and assistance, and resources.

What is the difference between a federal grant and a federal appropriation?

A grant is a form of federal financial assistance provided to individuals and/or organizations from the U.S. government. A federal appropriation is an annual appropriations act or a permanent law, for federal agencies to make payments out of the Treasury for specified purposes. The formal federal spending process consists of two sequential steps: authorization and then appropriation.

How do I apply for a grant?

The eligibility and processes for grant applications vary with each federal grant. For assistance with a grant application, visit the Foundation Center Proposal Writing Short Course, or see other tips and sample proposals at Grantspace’s How Do I Write a Grant Proposal? 

* Please note: our office only considers letter of support requests for federal grant programs.

Related Federal Resources

  • Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Funding  (Department of Energy)
    • Grants are EERE's primary funding vehicle for businesses, industries, universities and others. Most EERE grants are awarded on merit on a competitive basis.
    • For state-by-state information on state, local, utility, and federal incentives that promote renewable energy and energy efficiency, search DSIRE (Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency).
  • DHS Financial Assistance  (Department of Homeland Security)
    • Most Homeland Security non-disaster grant programs are designated for state and local governments and specific entities such as colleges, etc. Unsolicited applications from individuals are generally not accepted.
    • Programs for firefighters may be found at Assistance to Firefighters.
  • USA.gov for Businesses and Nonprofits  (GSA)
    • Includes contracting with the federal government, international trade and exporting, and small business.
    • See also financial assistance links at the Small Business Administration website.
  • FBO.gov  (GSA)
    • Official website posting business, contracting, and procurement opportunities with the federal government.
  • Student Aid on the Web  (Department of Education)
    • Financial assistance for education beyond high school is generally "needs-based" and often includes loans and work-study, in addition to some grants. College and university applications, websites, and brochures usually include financial aid information for prospective and incoming students.
  • https://www.benefits.gov/  (Department of Labor)
    • Government grants are not direct assistance to individuals, but fund state and local programs providing help to those in need. Covers direct payments, loans, insurance, training, or other services.
  • FTC Consumer Alert  (Federal Trade Commission)
  • OMB Grants Management Website  (Office of Management and Budget)

Private and Corporate Funding Sources

  • Candid's Foundation Directory
    • Gateway to information about private funding sources, the grantseeking process, guidelines on writing a grant proposal, addresses of state libraries with grants reference collections, and links to other useful Internet websites. The Center maintains a comprehensive Foundation Directory Online database on foundations; produces print and electronic directories and guides; conducts research and publishes studies in the field; and offers a variety of training and educational seminars.
  • Grants Resources by State  (Grantsmanship Center)
    • Click on the state map to find links to information about a state's foundations, community foundations, corporate giving programs and the state's home page.
  • Community Foundations
    • There are more than 750 community foundations in the U.S. which are grantmaking public charities dedicated to improving the lives of people in a defined local geographic area. The Council on Foundations has a listing of community foundations by state.