Economic Development Fund for East Tennessee

Established in 1991, the Economic Development Fund for East Tennessee is a grantmaking initiative administered by the East Tennessee Foundation. The fund is focused on fostering economic development in the region by supporting charitable and educational programs that contribute to long-term economic growth and prosperity. Its mission reflects a commitment to strengthening local communities and enhancing the quality of life for residents in East Tennessee. The fund awards competitive grants to qualifying organizations located within a 25-county service area. While general eligibility criteria are maintained by the foundation, applicants to this specific fund must also serve constituents within the defined regional scope. The grant prioritizes projects with a direct or indirect impact on economic development, including efforts that promote employment opportunities, workforce readiness, business growth, and sustainable regional planning. Specific uses of funds may vary, but all funded projects must align with the overarching goal of economic vitality for East Tennessee communities. In 2026, the Economic Development Fund for East Tennessee will resume awarding new grants. The application window opens on May 4, 2026, and closes at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on May 29, 2026. Grants awarded will be for a one-year term, with the performance period running from August 1, 2026, through July 31, 2027. The grant amounts available are up to $5,000 per organization. There is no information provided about any required matching funds or cost-sharing arrangements, suggesting no such requirements for this cycle. The application process involves accessing an online portal where applicants can submit both application and reporting forms. A tutorial is provided to guide organizations through the process, indicating that the foundation aims to make the submission process accessible and user-friendly. Though specific application components such as narratives or attachments are not listed in the source, prospective applicants are encouraged to review all relevant materials and complete the online form thoroughly. Grants will be awarded in August 2026. Evaluation criteria and the internal selection process are not disclosed in the source material, but applicants are directed to contact the foundation for further information. The main contacts for this grant opportunity are Ashley Siferd Butler, Director of Competitive Grants, and Brooke Anguiano, Assistant Director of Grantmaking & Operations. Inquiries can be made by phone at (865) 524-1223 ext. 144 or toll-free at (877) 524-1223 ext. 144. Email communication is also welcome through the East Tennessee Foundation’s grants department. While no information about recurring cycles is explicitly stated, the phrasing of “will award new grants in 2026” implies a pattern of periodic funding. Applicants interested in future cycles are encouraged to maintain contact with the foundation and verify current information each year.