The Opportunity Youth Engagement Grant, offered by the City of Knoxville, provides funding to non-profit and community-based organizations that deliver high-quality programming or youth employment initiatives for at-risk youth. Awards range from $5,000 to $40,000 and must be used for programming conducted between May 5 and October 10, 2025. This grant aims to re-engage youth at the highest risk of involvement in violent crime by fostering safe, nurturing environments and connecting them to positive networks for personal and community development.

Eligible applicants include non-profits and community organizations in or near Knoxville, with a focus on serving youth identified as Opportunity Youth. To ensure impact, the City will partner with Knox County Juvenile Court (KCJC) to refer justice-involved youth, and each grantee must serve at least three youth referred by KCJC. The grant emphasizes services such as stipends, payments, or other direct support for Opportunity Youth engaged in programming during the grant period.

Applications are competitive, and funding is not guaranteed even for past recipients. Proposals must address the specific needs of the targeted population and demonstrate the potential for meaningful impact. All applications must be submitted by December 5, 2024, at 4:30 p.m. Awards will be announced in April 2025.

Recipients must provide a post-project report summarizing the programs or activities conducted, the number and demographics of youth served, and the outcomes achieved. The grant process is guided by detailed funding guidelines, which applicants are advised to review thoroughly. For assistance, applicants can contact Star Starks or LaKenya Middlebrook at the provided phone numbers.