KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Applications opened Saturday for the Tennessee Valley Authority’s STEM Awards, offering educators in the provider’s seven-state region a chance for up to $5,000 in funding for projects.
The program will accept applications through Sept. 15, providing $1.5 million in partnership with Bicentennial Volunteers, Inc., a TVA retiree organization.
“These awards fund hands-on projects in science, technology, engineering and math, building the teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills students will carry into any career,” said Adam Wolcott, BVI director of operations. “When we invest in a teacher’s vision today, we’re helping build the workforce our region will depend on tomorrow.”
According to TVA, the program received 528 grant applications in 2025, with 339 selected for funding. Since 2018, the program has provided $9.5 million in awards supporting over 845,000 students. 
“It’s funded 3D printers, hydroponic towers, and it’s helped us refresh our garden. One year we purchased microscopic digital viewers for students,” said Jennifer Kennedy, a STEM specialist at Cowart Elementary School in Athens, Alabama.
The program is operated in partnership with the Tennessee STEM Innovation Network, which is managed by the Battelle organization.
Eligible applicants are teachers or school administrators in public or private schools, grades K-12. Schools must be in the TVA service area and receive electricity from a local power distributor served by TVA. Preference is given to applications that explore TVA’s primary areas of focus: energy, environment stewardship, economic and career development, and community problem-solving.
To apply, click here.
“Every student should get the chance to explore big ideas with real world tools,” said interim TVA President and CEO Mike Skaggs. “When we invest in the curiosity of young people today, we’re helping build the strong communities and bright futures our region depends on.”
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