Tennessee

Tennessee's FastTrack programs include the Job Training Assistance Program and the Infrastructure Program, both administered by the Department of Economic and Community Development. To qualify, businesses must commit to creating net new full-time jobs and making capital investments in Tennessee. Award amounts are discretionary and based on projected economic impact, job numbers, wage levels, and investment commitments. These are deal-closing incentives typically used for significant expansion or relocation projects.

Tennessee nonprofits can access funding through multiple state agencies. The Tennessee Arts Commission provides grants for cultural organizations and artists. The Department of Safety and Homeland Security offers the Houses of Worship Security Grant for eligible 501(c)(3) organizations. The Department of Disability and Aging runs the Senior Centers Grant Program with awards from $10,000 to $50,000. Nonprofits should also monitor the TN250 grant program and CDBG opportunities through TNECD.

Tennessee offers a one-time corporate income tax credit of $4,500 per job for businesses that make a capital investment of at least $500,000. Additional Enhanced Job Tax Credits are available in economically distressed counties, offering higher per-job credit amounts. These credits can be combined with FastTrack grants for qualifying projects, making Tennessee's total incentive package highly competitive for job creation initiatives.

CDBG funds in Tennessee are available to communities that do not receive funding directly from HUD as entitlement communities. Applications are typically submitted each February and awards are made in the fall. Eligible projects include sewer and water system improvements, housing rehabilitation, and health and safety initiatives. Larger cities like Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville receive CDBG funds directly from HUD and are not eligible for state-administered CDBG grants.

While Tennessee's FastTrack Job Training Assistance Program focuses on larger job creation projects, the state also supports workforce development through the Tennessee Reconnect program and partnerships with the Tennessee Board of Regents community college system. Small businesses may find training support through local workforce development boards and the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development. However, state incentives in Tennessee tend to favor larger employers with significant job creation and investment commitments.