What Does the Appalachian Community Fund Support in the Southeast?

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In terms of progressive social change, the Appalachian region of the U.S. might not be the first place that comes to mind. However, there is an organization called the Appalachian Community Fund (ACF) that has been pursuing a left-leaning grantmaking strategy there since 1987 to address systemic problems like racism, poverty and social inequity. Based in Knoxville, Tennessee, the Appalachian Community Fund has awarded around $7 million to over 300 groups since it first formed, and it is an active grantmaker.

Here are a few important things to know about the Appalachian Community Fund’s grantmaking and where its priorities lie.

Top funding interests

The overarching goal of ACF is to create a more just and equitable region in central Appalachia. It awards grants through a general fund, which offers opportunities to address poverty and oppression in the region. Other opportunities exist with ACF’s LGBTQ Fund and the FOCIS Giving Circle, which is part of a partnership to elevate regional social change work. ACF also provides nonprofits with technical assistance. Top issue areas for ACF are the equality of all people, anti-racism work, youth leadership development, environmental justice, immigration, health equity and social enterprise.

Important topics for this funder include the promotion of non-violent communities, building inclusive and democratic organizations, and ending racism, sexism, classism, ageism, homophobia and ableism. In addition to its regular grantmaking, the foundation works through multiple programs like the Appalachian Hero Awards, Out in Appalachia, the Appalachian Capacity Builders Project, and the Southern Black Girls and Women’s Consortium.

Geographic focus

ACF is a regional funder that supports grantees in multiple states. ACF’s geographic focus is central Appalachia, which it defines as eastern Tennessee, eastern Kentucky, southwest Virginia and the state of West Virginia. ACF provides maps of its grantmaking activities on its website. In recent years, mapping data indicates that grantees are fairly equally spread around the Appalachian states. The foundation’s home city of Knoxville, Tennessee receives a steady amount of attention.  

A collaborative funder

ACF is a very collaborative funder that values partnerships and working together with other donors interested in helping its region move toward a more progressive future. The list of ACF’s partnerships and affiliations includes Alliance for Better Nonprofits, Appalachian Funders Network, Community Shares of Tennessee and Social Justice Sister Funds.

ACF is also an accessible grantmaker with a staff that’s available for grantseeker questions before and during the application process. Learn more about this funder in IP’s full profile of the Appalachian Community Fund, which is part of our Tennessee grants for nonprofits guide.