STEM Classroom Grant Program

The Tennessee STEM Innovation Network (TSIN) STEM Classroom Grant Program is sponsored by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) in collaboration with Bicentennial Volunteers Incorporated (BVI), a TVA retiree organization. This program aims to support STEM learning projects within classrooms and schools that fall within the TVA service area across the Tennessee Valley. The grant encourages the development of STEM initiatives that foster innovative and creative learning experiences, with a broader goal of building a talent pipeline for TVA and its affiliated customers. The program prioritizes projects that integrate design thinking and promote 21st-century skills, focusing on interdisciplinary, collaborative efforts that enhance college and career readiness. Successful applications should incorporate unique and innovative STEM activities, preferably involving community partners to provide real-world career exposure. Eligible projects should align with one of TVA’s four key focus areas: Environment, Energy, Economic and Career Development, or Community Problem Solving. Funding amounts available under this grant program range from $1,000 to $5,000. Schools must be within the TVA service area and must receive electricity from a TVA-affiliated local power company. Both public and private K-12 schools are eligible, though private schools with religious affiliations must meet specific non-discriminatory criteria to qualify. Nonprofit organizations, homeschools, homeschool pods, and pre-K institutions are not eligible. Only one application may be submitted per teacher, though multiple teachers from the same school may apply. However, it is unlikely that more than one grant will be awarded per school. Applications for the 2024-2025 cycle closed on September 15, 2024. All applicants will be notified of their application status by November 30, 2024. Applications must be written and submitted by the educator implementing the project. AI assistance may be used in developing responses, but direct AI-generated content cannot be submitted verbatim. Applications must include detailed school and applicant contact information, district or private school EIN/TIN numbers, and the name of the grant manager or financial officer responsible for handling funds. Grant funds are distributed through ACH transfers to districts rather than individual schools or teachers. A completed W9 form and an ACH authorization form are required for fund disbursement. Funds cannot be used for furniture, cash, gift cards, travel, salaries, food, professional development, construction or renovation projects, general office supplies unrelated to STEM, or sports-related activities. If any surplus funds remain after purchasing approved project materials, grantees may submit a change request to reallocate those funds toward STEM-related expenses. The program adheres to federal non-discrimination laws, ensuring no applicant is denied participation based on race, color, national origin, age, sex, or disability. Complaints related to discrimination can be filed with TVA’s Federal Assistance Programs within the designated time frame. Additional resources, budget templates, and application details are available on the TSIN website.