Private foundation · Sparta, MI (gives in Tennessee from out of state)
Stewart and Lenore Kniff Family Foundati
This foundation says it only funds groups it chooses itself. Don't send an unsolicited application. If your work fits, the usual path is an introduction through someone the foundation already knows, such as a board member or a current grantee. See its board and officers below: do you or your board know any of them?
Key facts
- Grants in Tennessee
- 1 totaling $10K
- Typical grant
- $10K to $10K (middle half of its Tennessee grants)
- A realistic first ask
- About $10K, its median Tennessee grant. New grantees usually get less than long-time ones.
- Where it gives
- Shelby County · plus 51 grants outside Tennessee
- Buildings & equipment
- None of its Tennessee grants in this filing were for buildings or equipment
- Funds new groups?
- Rarely: every Tennessee group it funded in 2025 had also been funded in 2023–2024. Build a relationship before asking.
- Total giving that year
- $1.4M
Giving by year
| Tax year | Total grants paid | To Tennessee | Tennessee grants |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $1.4M | $10K | 1 |
| 2024 | $1M | $10K | 1 |
| 2023 | $264K | — | 0 |
How to apply
The foundation's filing doesn't describe how to apply. Look for a website, or send a short letter asking whether it accepts requests.
Board and officers
Does your board know anyone here?
Checked in your browser only. The names are kept on this device for other foundation pages and are never sent to GrantMe.
- C Andrew EdwardsPresident
- Lynn OlreeSecretary
- Thomas LittinTreasurer
As listed in its 2025 IRS filing. Many foundations decide through their board, so a personal connection often matters more than a perfect application.
Tennessee organizations it funded
Largest first. Groups it already funds are good people to ask what the foundation looks for. Select a group to see who else funds it.
| Recipient | Where | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| St Jude Children's Hospital | Memphis, Shelby County | Charitable | $10K |