Empowering Local Entrepreneurs Through Annual Grant Funding in Tennessee (USA)
GrantID: 11434
Grant Funding Amount Low: $10,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $30,000
Summary
This grant opportunity offers meaningful financial support to help small, locally based ventures strengthen and expand their operations. Available in select parts of the southeastern United States, the program runs annually and awards a total of over $200,000 through multiple regional events. Finalists in each area may receive varied levels of funding, including larger awards of up to $30,000, with several additional recipients receiving smaller but still impactful grants.
Eligible applicants are small, privately owned businesses that have been active for some time, employ a modest-sized team, and are working to grow or enhance their impact. The program is not open to nonprofit organizations or individual applicants. Participation is limited to those located within specific counties, and each applicant is expected to enter the region most closely tied to their primary business activities.
Funds are unrestricted, allowing awardees to use the support in whatever way fits their goals best—whether that involves scaling up operations, marketing to new audiences, strengthening systems, or launching a new phase of service. Beyond the financial backing, grant recipients also benefit from opportunities for increased public exposure, access to strategic resources, and connections with professionals who support small business development.
The process to apply typically involves a written submission, followed by additional rounds that may include video presentations, interviews, community input, and a live pitch event. A small group of finalists is chosen in each region to share their vision and plans with a judging panel and local supporters. This is a recurring opportunity, providing a regular platform for entrepreneurs who are committed to growing in place and contributing to their communities.
This initiative encourages innovation, resilience, and community-rooted entrepreneurship by investing directly in promising small businesses poised for their next stage of growth.
This grant may be available to individuals and organizations in Tennessee that are actively involved in Small Business. To locate more funding opportunities in your field, visit The Grant Portal and search by interest area using the Search Grant tool.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
