Nashville, TN — LaunchTN is accepting applications for financial awards to organizations and companies that provide entrepreneur support programs in their communities.
Since its creation, the Community Partner Program has awarded 32 projects, serving more than 1,500 entrepreneurs across Tennessee. The launch of the third cohort of the program seeks activities serving entrepreneurs between January and June 2024.
“The Community Partner Program continues to engage and support community-led activities that help entrepreneurs build and scale their businesses. CPP provides an opportunity for those leading entrepreneurial support activities to apply for funds to support their new initiatives.” Partnerships and Development Manager for LaunchTN Ashlin Smith said.
While the Community Partner Program is open to applicants from all 95 Tennessee counties, there is a focus on supporting activities in certain regions (listed in guidelines) of the state for Cohort 3, so organizations from those regions are strongly encouraged to apply.
Awards will be made from a finite pool of funding.
Organizations/companies may apply for up to $25,000 by outlining plans for how funds will be spent on programming or resources to support and empower Tennessee entrepreneurs.
Please note that LaunchTN may choose to offer an award amount of less than requested, so applicants are encouraged to consider this as they develop their budgets. Identification of alternative/multiple sources of funding strengthens the application.
Applications are open until November 22, 2023 at midnight CST.
Applicants may apply for costs including:
- Program materials
- Marketing expenses
- Certain event expenses
- Contracted labor such as external speaker/educator fees
Non-permissible costs include personnel expenses, overhead costs (such as rent, utilities), direct cash prizes, and some travel costs.
Full guidelines and the application link are available on the LaunchTN website.
About LaunchTN
LaunchTN is a public-private partnership that supports entrepreneurship and economic development with a goal to make Tennessee the best state in the country for startups. As a 501(c)3 nonprofit we are uniquely positioned to provide direct investment, while also supporting collaboration among founders, investors, researchers, private sector institutions and government. We foster entrepreneurship, technology advancement and workforce development through capital access, commercialization, mentorship, marketing and partnerships.
Contact:
Chloé Morrison
Chloe@LaunchTN.org.
