Knox County Foundation announces new grant application procedures

Knox County Foundation’s Board of Directors has approved updates to the Foundation’s Guidelines for Grantmaking to better support local nonprofits and ensure a more efficient, accessible grantmaking process. These updates will take effect with the 2026 Grant Cycles, offering clearer guidance for applicants and stronger alignment with community priorities. 

All applicants for the Foundation’s Small and Major Grants will be required to submit an Expression of Intent form before completing a full application. Applicants will be asked to provide a brief project description, goals and objectives, and a simple budget overview. If a nonprofit is new to Knox County or hasn’t received Foundation funding before, they’ll also be asked to show local partnerships or connections that strengthen their proposal. Following review, applicants meeting the criteria will be invited to submit a full grant application. EOIs will be due by the 15th of the month prior to each grant application deadline. 

“The new Expression of Intent step allows organizations to share a brief overview of their project so we can confirm eligibility and provide early feedback,” said Lisa Lloyd, Senior Program Director for the Foundation. “It’s a simple way to make sure applicants’ time and efforts are well spent, while helping us learn more about the great work happening across our community.”

In addition to the updated procedures, the Foundation is excited to introduce a new Summer Youth Enrichment Grant beginning in 2026. This grant supports nonprofit community partners working to reduce financial barriers that prevent children and teens from participating in meaningful summer and extracurricular programs.

Funding may be used for scholarships, registration fees, activity passes, or related costs for Knox County youth from families with low income or underserved backgrounds. Eligible programs may include educational camps, grief support programs, 4-H or nature camps, recreational activities, and other structured youth enrichment opportunities.

Applications for the new Summer Youth Enrichment Grant are due January 15 each year, and an Expression of Intent form is not required for this program.

Grant Application Deadlines

Types of Grant

Small & Major —   Intent (Dec. 15); Application Due (Jan. 15), Notifications (February)

Summer Youth Enrichment — Intent (NA); Application Due (Jan. 15); Notifications (February)

Small — Intent (March 15); Applications Due (April 15); Notifications (May)

Small & Major — Intent (June 15); Applications Due (July 15); Notifications (August)

Small — Intent (Sept. 15); Applications Due (Oct. 15); Notifications (November)

Organizations interested in applying are encouraged to review the updated grant guidelines and submit materials through the Foundation’s online grant portal at www.knoxcf.org under the 'Grants and Scholarships' tab.

“Our goal is to make grantmaking more collaborative, transparent, and impactful,” added Lloyd. “We’re excited to continue investing in ideas that strengthen Knox County and create opportunities for everyone to grow and thrive.” 

For questions or assistance, contact Lisa Lloyd, Senior Program Director, at 740-392-3270 or lisa@knoxcf.org.