Community Health Equity Mini-Grants

The Office of Health Equity at Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) is offering Community Health Equity Mini-Grants to support innovative projects aimed at improving health equity in Bedford, Coffee, Davidson, Rutherford, Williamson, and Wilson Counties in Tennessee. This initiative aligns with VUMC's mission to address community concerns related to health and healthcare, and the social, economic, and environmental factors impacting health. The program seeks to understand and respond to the greatest needs and assets within these communities, ultimately improving community health and well-being. The target beneficiaries are residents of the aforementioned Tennessee counties, particularly those impacted by health inequities. The grant program aims to achieve significant impact by fostering projects that address VUMC's identified health needs, which include Access to Care, Equity, Chronic Disease and Preventative Care, and Social Drivers of Health. Through these mini-grants, VUMC seeks to create measurable improvements in community health and reduce disparities. Priority for this funding cycle is given to innovative pilots or proof-of-concept projects. A strong focus is placed on initiatives that address critical Social Drivers of Health such as Housing, Food/Nutrition Insecurity, Transportation, Financial Insecurity, and Interpersonal Safety. Additionally, projects addressing Mental Health and/or Substance Use, and Birth Equity are highly prioritized. These focus areas reflect VUMC's strategic priorities and a theory of change that recognizes the interconnectedness of various social factors in influencing health outcomes. Eligible applicants include community or faith-based organizations with 501(c)(3) non-profit status, including advocacy groups, coalitions, neighborhood associations, community health centers, and service providers within the specified counties. Public agencies and organizations without 501(c)(3) status are encouraged to partner with eligible 501(c)(3) organizations. Academic institutions can collaborate but are not eligible to apply. Selected organizations will be required to complete a 1-hour "Seeds of Equity" training to deepen their understanding of health equity and the historical context of health inequities in Tennessee, further ensuring alignment with the program's goals. Organizations may apply for up to $10,000, which is expected to support projects with tangible outcomes that contribute to VUMC's broader health equity objectives.