State Rep. Kevin Raper, R-Cleveland, today announced arts organizations in Bradley County will receive $43,830 in state funding to support educational and outreach efforts.
The Museum and Cultural Center at 5ive Points will receive three grants totaling $34,820 and Lee University will receive two grants totaling $9,010.
“These grants are an investment in the people and culture of Bradley County,” Raper said. “Supporting the arts strengthens our communities, enhances education and helps preserve our local heritage.”
The funding is part of $12.3 million in the state’s 2025-26 budget allocated by the Tennessee General Assembly for arts initiatives in all 95 counties. The Tennessee Arts Commission administers the grants.
“Tennessee is fortunate to be a state where few can rival the breadth and depth of its arts and culture. Tennessee boasts a unique array of artistic and cultural assets,” 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.”
Grant awards are determined through a competitive process, which includes evaluation by citizen advisory panels with expertise in various arts disciplines and final approval by the commission.
Tennessee’s nonprofit arts and culture sector generates $1.4 billion in annual economic activity, supports more than 23,400 full-time equivalent jobs and contributes to education, tourism and community development across the state.
For information about the grant programs, visit tnartscommission.org.