Down Payment Assistance
down payment assistance grant application
IMPORTANT NOTE: We have awarded all available grants for the current quarter. To be notified of the next window for applications, add your contact info here.
Our Discretionary Grant program awards grants to first-time homebuyers in the music and hospitality industries of Nashville. By providing this assistance, we hope to Keep Nashville Music City. Applications are reviewed by our selection committee, which is made up of community members in these industries. Grants are offered on a rolling basis depending on availability of funds.
Eligibility requirements:
1.) You have lived in Nashville and the surrounding counties for a minimum of 6 years.
2.) You have worked in the music or hospitality industry(ies) for a minimum of 6 years.
3.) You are pre-approved (or are in the process) and are looking to purchase first home within the next 3 months.
4.) Your income is equal to or less than $120,000 (combined income of up to two people on the loan) with a maximum purchase price of $500,000.
5.) You are a first-time home buyer, planning to purchase a home in Nashville or the 12 surrounding counties.
6.) The majority of your income comes from the music and/or hospitality industries.
Selected grantees will have up to $2,500 gifted to them at closing via wire transfer to their title company. The gift will be listed as a credit toward the recipient's down payment or closing cost per their closing documentation.
please note:current estimated application processing time is approximately 3-4 weeks. If you already have a closing date which falls before this time, we will be unable to award funds. Funds can only be awarded before closing — not as reimbursements.
frequently asked questions
Does applying guarantee a grant?
No. Applying and meeting eligibility requirements does not guarantee a grant. All grants are discretionary and dependent on available funding.
How much is the grant?
Grants awarded in 2026 are up to $2,500.
Do I qualify if I work in the music industry but I’m not a musician?
If you work in the music industry (for example: touring crew, production, management, publishing, studios, venues, labels, or adjacent roles that support the industry), you are eligible to apply.
Which kinds of positions are considered hospitality for the purpose of this program?
Individuals who work at restaurants, bars, or venues, with priority given to those earning non-W2 income (such as 1099 or tipped wages). This is anyone who contributes to Nashville’s identity as “Music City” by supporting live music and the visitor experience.
Do I have to repay the grant?
No. The grant is a gift and does not need to be repaid.
Can the grant be combined with other programs?
Yes. The NIF grant may be combined with other down payment assistance programs.
What can the grant be used for?
The grant may be used toward down payment and/or closing costs.
Do I need to be under contract to apply?
No. Applicants do not need to be under contract. We encourage applying 0–3 months before planning to purchase a home.
I have a closing date in two weeks. Can I apply? Current estimated application processing time is approximately 3-4 weeks. If you already have a closing date which falls before this time, we will be unable to award funds. Funds can only be awarded before closing—not as reimbursements.
How are applications reviewed?
Once an application is received, essays and references are reviewed by our volunteer selection committee.
Do you have examples of solid candidate profiles? Yes, we do! You can view example candidate profiles here.
When will I hear back?
Applicants will receive a grant approval or denial letter within three (3) to four (4) weeks of applying.
Is there anything I can do to speed up my application review? After we receive your application, we will ask for references and a short form which needs to be filled out by your lender. Most delays are due to slow responses to these requests. Please ensure these forms are completed in a timely manner.
How long is an approved grant valid?
An awarded grant may be held for up to three (3) months. After three months, the applicant is released from the award pool and may reapply at any time.
What are the home occupancy requirements?
The home must be owner-occupied as a primary residence. Renting out a room for additional income is allowed.
For Mortgage Professionals & Realtors
How is the grant paid?
The grant is paid as a gift at closing directly to the buyer’s title company. (See sample grant letter here).
Can the grant be used with FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional loans?
Yes. The NIF grant may be used with most standard mortgage loan programs, as long as the buyer meets NIF eligibility requirements and the home is owner-occupied as a primary residence.
Who should lenders or realtors contact with questions?
Stephanie@nashvilleindustryfund.org