Memphis City Council Community Grant Program

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125 N. Main, Room 514 Memphis, TN 38103

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(901) 636-6786

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(901) 636-6796

The Community Grant Program provides an opportunity for nonprofit organizations to further their influence within the Memphis community through funding allocated by the Memphis City Council.

The goal is to empower nonprofit organizations that seek to improve the Memphis community through local programs that target the City of Memphis priorities: Crime and Drug prevention, Youth Empowerment, Economic Development, and Poverty.

FY24 applications are now closed. Please see first-round grant allocations from Council members here.

Community Initiative Grantee FAQ

Who can apply for a Memphis City Council Community Grant?

Any 501(c)(3) organization with an official address listed within the City of Memphis that has been in operation under its tax-exempt status for two years prior to the application.

Applicants should be able to provide proof of current programming and successful track record in providing the services for which they are requesting funding.

What materials and documents do I need to apply for a Memphis City Council Community Grant?

a. Proof of your non-profit, charitable, or civic organizational status. Examples of acceptable documentation include a 501(c)(3) determination letter issued by the federal government or a IRS issued tax exempt number; or documentation of registration with the Tennessee Secretary of State as a non-profit organization.

b. Copy of your most recent tax filing or most recent 990 or 990EZ submissions.

c. Copy of your W-9

d. Copy of a Certificate of Insurance from your current liability carrier.

e. Complete and attach your Budget Presentation. Please follow the template included in the application.

How do I obtain the Charitable Organizations filing?

Visit https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/tax-exempt-organization-search and search for your organization based on name, location, and EIN number of the organization applying to receive a grant.

What happens if the information provided in the application does not match my organization’s Charitable Organizations filing or the IRS forms, as verified on the IRS website?

Your application will not be considered for the Memphis City Council Community Grant Program for FY23.

How much should my financial request be?

This is up to the organization’s specific need. However, requests exceeding more than 30% of total operating budget as reported on the most recent tax filing, will not be accepted.

Will someone from the Council office be able to assist me with my application?

The Memphis City Council staff may answer general questions only. The staff cannot advise or assist applicants in completing the application.

If I make an error on my application, can I correct it?

No. The application must be resubmitted.

Can I mail or hand-deliver my application?

All applications must be submitted online.

How do I know if my application was submitted?

Once the application is submitted, the applicant will receive a confirmation email from DocuSign. If it’s not in the inbox, please check the spam folder. If no confirmation is received, the applicant must resubmit the application.

How do I know if my organization has been selected for a Budget Presentation before the City Council?

Each organization that is selected to present will receive notification from City Council staff. The contact information provided in the application will be used to provide notice. Please ensure this information is accurate.

Would I need to provide a separate presentation if I’m selected to present before City Council?

No. The presentation submitted with the application will be the only presentation used. Please ensure all information requested in the template is provided and accurate.