Republican Caucus Chairman Jeremy Faison, R-Cosby, today announced arts organizations in Jefferson, Cocke and Hamblen counties will receive $84,250 in state grants to support educational and outreach initiatives.
The Tennessee Arts Commission administers the grants. Funding recipients include:
- Boys and Girls Clubs of Dumplin Valley: $18,800
- East Tennessee Artscapes: $44,210
- Fuzion School of the Arts: $14,270
- Literacy Association of Tennessee: $2,870
- Walters State Community College: $4,100
“The arts are an important part of our culture, our education system and our economy,” Faison said. “This funding ensures local organizations can continue inspiring creativity and strengthening our communities.”
The funding comes from the $12.3 million the Tennessee General Assembly allocated in the 2025-26 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.”
The commission awards grants through a competitive process that relies on evaluations from citizen advisory panels with expertise in different arts disciplines, followed by final approval from commission members.
Tennessee’s nonprofit arts and culture sector generates $1.4 billion in annual economic activity, supports more than 23,400 full-time jobs and drives education, tourism and community development across the state.
For information, visit tnartscommission.org.