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Community Giving Grants

We’re excited to introduce a new approach to how we support our community.

Beginning in 2026, our Community Giving efforts will shift to a grant-based model, providing impactful investments in the organizations and initiatives that strengthen our region. This change was shaped by feedback from our Advisory Board and Community Partners, with the goal of creating more intentional, mission- and action-focused funding. Each year, we will award five $2,500 grants to nonprofit organizations serving our nine-county service area, including Anderson, Blount, Campbell, Knox, Loudon, Morgan, Roane, Scott, and Union counties. Our application process is designed to be simple and accessible, while still giving us a clear understanding of your organization, your project, and the impact you aim to create. Applications will be reviewed by credit union leadership and our Board of Directors using a transparent scoring rubric that focuses on feasibility, community need, sustainability, and overall impact.

Key Dates

• Application Opens: May 1, 2026
• Application Closes: June 30, 2026
• Review Period: July - August
• Recipients Notified: September 9, 2026

Who Should Apply

We encourage nonprofit organizations located in or serving our three-county membership and greater nine-county CDFI service area to apply. Whether you’re an existing Community Partner or new to working with us, we welcome applications from organizations committed to making a meaningful difference in their communities.

What to Expect

The application is a short, straightforward form that should take approximately 10 minutes to complete. You’ll be asked to share basic information about your organization, the project you’re requesting funding for, and the impact you expect to make. Our goal is simple: to invest in work that creates real, lasting impact across the communities we serve. If you have questions at any point during the process, we’re here to help.