15TH
Requests for Proposal are now open to organizations in Davidson County through January 15.
Philanthropy in Action at Belmont
At Belmont University, a new story of generosity is taking shape—one written by students who are learning what it means to give not just in theory, but in practice. Through the new Generous Life course, junior Global Honors students are stepping into the role of philanthropists, entrusted with awarding $100,000 to Nashville nonprofits that are creating real and lasting change. Guided by Dr. Mona Ivey-Soto and alumna Hilary Taft, the course blends academic exploration with hands-on community engagement, empowering students to deepen their understanding of generosity while investing in organizations that help the city flourish. What begins in the classroom will ripple outward into the community—transforming students, strengthening partnerships, and supporting innovative solutions to Nashville’s greatest needs.
Requests for Proposal
Education
Our issue area is focused on positive youth programming through wraparound services supporting low-income Nashville families with school age children. These supports span afterschool enrichment, positive youth development, childcare, vocational programs, and adolescent homelessness initiatives.
Healthcare
Many communities in Nashville, including children, people experiencing poverty, elderly individuals, and immigrants, struggle to access both physical and mental healthcare. Class divide, age, and systemic inequality result in numerous barriers to quality services.
RFP Application Instructions
Proposal Requirements
Please address each of the following sections in your written proposal (maximum 5 pages, excluding the cover information).
Organizational Background – 1 paragraph
Provide a brief overview of your organization, including mission, relevant experience, and capacity to implement the proposed project.
Proposed Project Description – 1–2 paragraphs
Describe your proposed project, target populations, and any client eligibility criteria (if applicable). Explain how this project directly responds to the issue area identified in the RFP.
Theory of Change (adapted) – 1 paragraph
Adapt the illustrative theory of change included in the RFP to fit your organization’s proposed project and intended impact.
Proposed Activity Interventions – up to 1 page
Outline the specific activities, programs, or interventions you intend to implement with the awarded funds. Bullet point format is acceptable.
Include details about how and by whom activities will be carried out, a brief project timeline, and key milestones.
Use of Funds – up to 1 page
Provide a concise budget table and narrative explaining how requested funds will be spent. Budgets may include costs related to program implementation, materials, community engagement, or other direct expenses essential to achieving project goals.
Please describe any plans to sustain the project activities or impact after the grant period.
Opportunities for Student Engagement – 1 paragraph
Include at least one meaningful way for approximately 10 Belmont University students to participate in or contribute to the project during the spring 2026 semester. Examples include:
- Engaging students in project implementation or community outreach activities
- Involving students in research, evaluation, or storytelling about project impact
- Collaborating with students on communications, marketing, or event coordination
- Co-developing materials, tools, or resources with student teams
Expected Outcomes and Impact – 1–2 paragraphs
Clearly articulate the intended outcomes of your proposed activities. Describe how you will measure or assess success using qualitative and / or quantitative indicators.
Submission Details
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You will receive an email containing a link to the online proposal submission form along with this RFP.
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Please submit a single document in Microsoft Word or Adobe PDF format via that form by the stated deadline.
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Maximum length: 5 pages (excluding any cover information).
Applications open through January 15, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our funding is primarily directed toward Nashville-based organizations. However, we encourage you to apply if your organization’s mission and proposed project strongly align with the RFP’s focus area.
There are no formal reporting requirements at this time. However, grantees will be invited to participate in a short video interview highlighting their funded project and impact.
Yes. Grants will be awarded in $50,000 allocations. Collaborative proposals are welcome; please identify one organization as the fiscal lead in the “Use of Funds” section, if applying jointly.
Yes. You may apply to both RFPs.
Questions?
Please email the Belmont Innovation Labs your questions about the course or the RFP process.