State Rep. Ed Butler, R-Rickman, today announced the Appalachian Arts Craft Center in Clinton will receive a $16,600 state grant to support educational programming and community outreach.
The Tennessee Arts Commission awarded the funding through its competitive grant program, which evaluates applications through citizen advisory panels made up of experts from across artistic disciplines. The full commission grants final approval.
“This grant is an investment in the cultural vitality of our region,” Butler said. “The Appalachian Arts Craft Center has long been a pillar of creative opportunity in East Tennessee and this funding will help expand its impact even further.”
The funding is part of $12.3 million included in Tennessee’s 2025-26 state budget to support arts initiatives in all 95 counties.
“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.”
According to the commission, Tennessee’s nonprofit arts and culture sector generates $1.4 billion in economic activity each year and supports more than 23,400 full-time jobs.
Information about grant opportunities is available at tnartscommission.org.