Kemmons Wilson Family Foundation- Innovation Grants

The Kemmons Wilson Family Foundation offers Innovation Grants ranging from $10K to $25K to support creative projects that address generational poverty. Eligible organizations must have 501c3 status and operate in the Greater Memphis area. The foundation emphasizes innovative solutions that target under-resourced communities and encourages partnerships with nonprofits. The grants aim to empower organizations making a significant impact through original initiatives, aligning with the Foundation's Building Strong Families strategy.

These one time grants are made to support original and creative thinking that may be aligned with, but not limited to, our Building Strong Families strategy for disrupting generational poverty.
Innovation grants are $10K to $25K and are decided upon by the KWFF Advisory Board.
Central criteria for Innovation grants includes:
Beginning or scaling an innovative and inspiring project, program, or organizationAddressing an emerging challenge or opportunityTargeting disenfranchised and under- resourced individuals in our city with a project, program, or organization

Eligibility

In order to become eligible for consideration for grant funds, there are several required steps.

The organization must have an established and current operating 501c3 status. The organization must be impacting the Greater Memphis area, unless otherwise specified or invited by a Wilson family member to apply.
The organization must show leadership with its staff as seen in the results of programs or the success of the overall organization’s mission.
The organization must apply through our online grants management system.
The organization must provide sound financials (either audited or balance sheets).
The organization must provide a list of its established board members and make a statement as to the active nature of their board members

Ineligibility

If the applicant does not have 501c3 status, operates outside of the Memphis area or is requesting funds for a special event, the applicant will not be allowed to complete an application.