Arts Fund for East Tennessee

Due to the severe economic disruptions COVID-19 is causing to professional arts organizations in our region, East Tennessee Foundation is taking immediate steps to help these organizations survive. We cannot imagine East Tennessee without its museums, theaters, and performing arts.
Arts Fund 2020 grants will help ensure the continuity and sustainability of our region's arts organizations by awarding emergency grants through a simplified and expedited application and process.

The Arts Fund for East Tennessee was established in 1986 to serve as a source of funds to support excellence in the arts, expand access to the arts, and connect artists with each other and with East Tennessee communities.

Application Process

The application process for 2020 has closed. Details about the next application process and grant cycle have not yet been determined. Please continue to check back with ETF.

Grant Amounts and Term

Organizations were able to apply for up to $10,000.
Funds were awarded in July 2020 for one-year terms and were used as needed by arts organizations to keep "the lights on," staff supported, and support other essential operational needs.

Application Information

Who May Apply

General Eligibility and Funding Criteria

Additional eligibility criteria specific to the Arts Fund:

• Professional arts organizations must be located in and serve constituents in ETF’s 25-county service area

How to Apply

• LOI and Application Instructions
• Logon Page to Access LOIs, Applications, and Report Forms

Additional Information

Please direct your questions to:
Jan Elston, Vice President for Competitive Grant Programs, or
Ashley Siferd Butler, Program Officer
East Tennessee Foundation
520 W. Summit Hill Drive, Suite 1101
Knoxville, TN 37902
Telephone: (865) 524-1223 or (877) 524-1223

Thank you for your interest in the Arts Fund for East Tennessee!