FAQs

We prioritize organizations that have an existing relationship with our credit union or are open to building one.

We focus our funding on communities within our membership and CDFI service areas.

• Membership Service Area: Knox, Anderson, and Roane counties
• Greater CDFI Service Area: Blount, Campbell, Loudon, Morgan, Scott, and Union counties

We look for projects that are realistic and well-planned. Strong applications include: 

• A clear plan and timeline
• Defined goals and outcomes

Please note that we do not require a budget for our Community Giving Grant application, as all recipients will receive the same amount. However, if you would like to provide specific details, there is a space to do so. Providing a budget will not automatically result in a higher application score.

We want to understand the “why” behind your project. Strong applications include:

• A clear description of the need or problem
• Explanation of who will benefit and how
• Long-term benefits to the community

We are looking to fund projects that align with our community development mission and create real, measurable impact. Strong applications:

• Clearly connect to community impact
• Show how funds will directly support action
• Include measurable outcomes or success indicators

Our goal with our Community Giving Grants is to fund mission-driven and action-focused projects. While event sponsorships remain an important part of our community support and are reviewed separately, they are not eligible for funding through the Community Giving Grant. This program is intentionally focused on supporting projects that deliver measurable outcomes and sustained impact beyond a single event.