The Tennessee Arts Commission's Creative Placemaking grant supports projects that use arts and cultural assets to enhance community identity and drive positive economic and social outcomes. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations chartered and headquartered in Tennessee, as well as entities of local government. Schools, colleges, and universities may not serve as lead applicants but can participate as partners. Funding awards range from $3,000 to $30,000, with at least two awards dedicated to rural applicants. A 1:4 cash or in-kind match is required, where applicants contribute $1 for every $4 of grant funds.
The program prioritizes projects that strategically integrate the arts to revitalize neighborhoods, towns, or cities, improve public spaces, foster community engagement, and stimulate economic growth. Examples of eligible activities include arts initiatives to transform community liabilities into assets, arts-based business incubators, or projects enhancing engagement in natural or cultural spaces. Funds cannot be used for standard marketing materials, operating support, or ongoing arts programming.
Applications will be evaluated based on placemaking opportunity (30 points), project rationale (25 points), capacity and financial support (10 points), community support (20 points), and measurable outcomes (15 points). Rural applicants may receive up to an additional 10 points. Required materials include a completed application, letters of community support, a Creative Placemaking Logic Model, a project map, and, for nonprofits, governing documents such as a corporation report and board list.
The grant period covers projects taking place between July 1, 2025, and June 1, 2026, with spending ideally completed by June 1, 2026. Applications must be submitted by January 13, 2025, using the Commission's Online Grants System. Organizations are encouraged to contact program staff to verify eligibility and discuss project proposals before applying. For questions, applicants can reach out to Shannon Ford or Melissa Moody at the Tennessee Arts Commission.
