Updated Nov 4, 2026
Private foundations based in Bristol, Tennessee
4 grantmaking foundations headquartered in Bristol, Tennessee, holding $952M in assets. Ranked by grants paid in their latest 990-PF; 2 on this page say they accept applications. For foundations ranked by where their grants went, see local funders.
| Foundation | Grants paid | Median grant | Accepts applications | Assets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Bill Gatton Foundationsince 1987 | $27M9 grants · 2024 | $1.8M | Yes | $902M |
| The John D Tickle Foundationsince 1989 | $1.5M1 grants · 2025 | $1.5M | Preselected only | $11M |
| Massengill-Defriece Foundation Incsince 1953 | $225K15 grants · 2025 | $10K | Yes | $6.0M |
| Ty & Julann Warren Family Foundationsince 2015 | $222K28 grants · 2025 | $5,000 | Preselected only | $4.3M |
Sources: IRS Business Master File (assets), ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer and IRS 990-PF e-file (grants paid, application policy). "Accepts applications" reflects the foundation's own Part XV checkbox.
Open grant programs in Tennessee
All 2| Deadline | Grant | Funder | Award ceiling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rollingno deadline | Tennessee Arts Commission — Organizational GrantsStateTennessee Arts Commission | Tennessee Arts Commission | Not listed |
| Rollingno deadline | Humanities Tennessee — Humanities GrantsStateHumanities Tennessee | Humanities Tennessee | Not listed |
Common questions
How many private foundations are based in Bristol, Tennessee?
Our directory lists 4 private grantmaking foundations in Bristol, Tennessee with at least $1 million in assets, holding a combined $952M. The data comes from the IRS Exempt Organizations Business Master File and Form 990-PF.
How do I get a grant from a private foundation?
Start with foundations that already fund organizations like yours nearby. Read the grantee list on each profile, check whether the foundation accepts applications (it says so on its 990-PF), and lead with a short letter of inquiry. Many family foundations fund only organizations they already know; an introduction through a shared grantee or board member works better than a cold proposal.
Can you help us approach foundations?
Yes. Our grant writers research foundation prospects, write letters of inquiry, and build a foundation fundraising plan. Request a free consultation.