State Rep. Kip Capley, R-Summertown, today announced the South Central Tennessee Development District will receive $40,120 in state funding to support arts-related education and community outreach programs. The grant is part of $12.3 million included in Tennessee’s 2025-26 state budget passed by the General Assembly to strengthen the arts in both rural and urban communities. […]
State Rep. Kip Capley, R-Summertown, today announced the South Central Tennessee Development District will receive $40,120 in state funding to support arts-related education and community outreach programs.
The grant is part of $12.3 million included in Tennessee’s 2025-26 state budget passed by the General Assembly to strengthen the arts in both rural and urban communities. The Tennessee Arts Commission administers the funding through a competitive application process.
“This funding helps ensure that arts and cultural opportunities remain accessible in our region,” Capley said. “Supporting the arts enriches our communities, boosts local economies and creates educational opportunities for all ages.”
Grant recipients are selected through a statewide review process that involves citizen advisory panels with arts expertise and final approval by the full commission.
“Tennessee is fortunate to be a state where few can rival the breadth and depth of its arts and culture,” said Anne B. Pope, executive director of the Tennessee Arts Commission. “Arts and culture are vital tools for attracting and retaining businesses and help build stronger communities by enhancing the distinctive character of Tennessee places.”
The state’s nonprofit arts and culture sector generates $1.4 billion in economic activity each year and supports more than 23,400 full-time jobs. It also plays a key role in education, tourism and local development.
For information about available grants, visit tnartscommission.org.