Memphis City Council Community Grant Program
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.
The FY24 grant application will open on June 12, 2023 at 10:00 a.m.
The FY24 application period will remain open until July 17, 2023 at 11:59 p.m. At that time, the application will close for the remainder of the fiscal year.
Please click the following link to submit an application: https://memphiscouncilgrant.communityforce.com
Before applying, it is strongly suggested that all applicants read and review the Memphis City Council Community Grant Program FAQs below.
Community Initiative Grantee
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for a Memphis City Council Community Grant?
Any 501(c)(3) organization that targets at least one of the Council’s priorities 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 documentation of registration with the Tennessee Secretary of State as a non-profit organization.
b. Copy of your most recent tax filing (must be from tax years 2020 to the most recent tax year) or most recent 990 or 990EZ submissions.
c. Copy of your W-9- MUST BE SIGNED
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. Please ensure that your organization’s 501(c)(3) exemption has not been revoked and that all tax filings from tax years 2021 to present are provided on the site.
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 FY24.
How much should my financial request be?
This is up to the organization’s specific need. However, requests exceeding more than 30% of either the organization’s revenue or expenses, as provided on the most recently filed IRS Form 990, 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?
Yes. An applicant may edit their application at any time prior to submission and/or the deadline.
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. 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 email address 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.
Who can I contact with questions?
You may contact Brianna Owens at citycouncilgrants@memphistn.gov or at (901) 636-6798 with any questions or concerns