The Melrose Foundation
The Melrose Foundation is a private grantmaking foundation (EIN 62-6037984) based in Knoxville, TN that provides funding to charitable organizations. The foundation is presented as an affiliate of The Melrose Corporation on the corporation's website. IRS filing databases (ProPublica, Candid/GuideStar) corroborate the EIN, address, and recent Form 990-PF activity.
Source: Website · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
A local Tennessee 501(c)(3) with programs in community services, education, youth development, health, food security, or arts seeking modest operating or program support (typically under $5k).
Good Fit
- • Organization is based in Tennessee, ideally in Knoxville or nearby.
- • 501(c)(3) status with a clear brochure or program description and tax-exempt determination letter.
- • Asks are modest (small-dollar requests, < $5k) for program or community-service work.
- • Demonstrable local impact in areas the foundation has funded (education, health, food/security, youth, arts).
- • Ability to provide a concise printed packet and follow up by phone or mailed materials.
Geography
All observed grants across three years are to organizations in Tennessee, heavily concentrated in the Knoxville area, so the grant footprint is locally focused.
Recipient Variety
The foundation made about 33 distinct grants in the latest year to many independent charities across charitable, educational, and medical purposes, indicating a broad recipient set despite some dollar concentration among the top recipients.
New Applicants
Direct evidence of turnover exists: 21 new recipients in 2024 (about 64% new), and public application instructions plus a mailed submission route are posted; although the foundation notes grants are typically to preselected organizations, observed grant turnover shows unfamiliar applicants have been funded.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
