The Arts Build Communities (ABC) Grant Program, administered by the Tennessee Arts Commission, provides funding support for arts projects that are locally relevant and community-focused across the state of Tennessee. The program's purpose is to broaden access to the arts, improve quality of life through artistic engagement, and strengthen sustainable cultural enterprises rooted in the community.
ABC grant funds are intended to support a wide range of creative initiatives, including those that bring innovative arts experiences to new audiences, address social issues through the arts, enhance community identity or economic development, and foster entrepreneurial training for artists and arts administrators. Eligible projects might include performances, exhibitions, arts education programs, cultural festivals, or skill-building workshops, provided they directly benefit the broader community.
The grant period for Fiscal Year 2026 is from August 16, 2025, to June 15, 2026. An exception to the project period may be granted for activities extending up to June 20, 2026, such as Juneteenth events, as long as all expenses are incurred and disbursed by that time. Applications open on April 1, 2025, and must be submitted no later than July 1, 2025. Panel reviews and award notifications will follow according to the Commission’s published schedule.
Organizations eligible to apply include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations legally chartered and headquartered in Tennessee and local government entities. Colleges and universities may apply only if their proposed activities serve the general public and are not limited to credit-bearing or academic-oriented programming. Organizations that already receive funding through the Commission’s Major Cultural Institution or Partnership Support grants are ineligible for ABC funding.
Applicants may request up to $5,000 in support. While matching funds are not required, this is a reimbursement-based grant, meaning recipients must cover costs upfront and submit documentation to receive payment. All applicants are encouraged to review the Legal Requirements for Tennessee Arts Commission Funding and the ABC grant program guidelines in detail before submitting their proposals.
For assistance with accessibility or to request alternate digital formats, captioning, ASL interpretation, or other assistive technologies, applicants should contact Kim Johnson, Director of Arts Access, at 615-532-9797.
