In 1980, the Tennessee Retail Grocers Association (TRGA) held a golf tournament in Smyrna as a "feel good" event, but raised an $800 profit.  The Board of Directors set aside the money to begin a scholarship fund.  The first scholarships were given in the fall of 1981 and TRGA decided to set aside an additional $5,000  to the help the fund.  On September 19, 1985 TGEF was founded to plan, promote and produce golf outings and other events to raise funds for the foundation.

The Foundation's keystone is its Board of Trustees-comprised of individuals with years of experience from all segments of the food industry-that provides direction and strategic planning.

The Foundation was created as a value-add for TGCSA members.  The trustees encourage all TGCSA member companies to take advantage of the unique program offered.

Tennessee Grocers Education Foundation began with the scholarship program with four $1,000 awards.  In the ensuing 25 years, TGEF has presented over 1,800 scholarships worth over $2,000,000 to deserving student employees and children of employees in the food industry.  At the 2006 annual convention, TGEF awarded two additional $1,000 awards, designated as the "Rising on to Three Million Dollars" in awards given.

The purpose of the foundation is to support the education of student employees or children of employees in the food industry in Tennessee.  It helps deserving students with college expenses, relieves parents of college expenses and benefits the colleges winners attend by their receiving of the scholarship funds.

The foundation is classified as a 501(c)3 public charity.  Awarding scholarships through the foundation allows you a tax deduction and is a tax free benefit to the student.