The Tennessee Arts Commission’s Major Cultural Institutions (MCI) grant program provides operating support to established arts organizations headquartered and chartered in Tennessee, representing the highest level of quality in programming and administration. Organizations may request up to 15% of their total annual cash operating expenses, capped at $200,000, and must provide a dollar-for-dollar match. Eligible organizations must demonstrate a three-year history of operating revenues exceeding $1 million, maintain this threshold annually, and provide audited financial statements from a certified public accountant (CPA). Additionally, the organization must employ a full-time paid administrative or artistic director and have a board-approved long-range plan.

Eligible applicants must submit a formal request to enter the MCI category, including financial documentation, by November 30 of the preceding year. New applicants must demonstrate a “clean” audit and will not receive more than 50% of their maximum eligible request in the first year of funding. Organizations in this category are reviewed triennially, although probationary or heightened-review organizations may require annual evaluations.

MCI grants can fund allowable expenses such as salaries, professional fees, and operational costs but exclude capital expenses, fundraising costs, and other unallowable expenditures under federal and state guidelines. Organizations applying for MCI grants may also submit applications in Arts Access or Arts Education categories but may not apply for project support in the same fiscal year.

The application process involves completing an organizational profile and application via the Commission’s Online Grants System. Required documents include financial audits, advocacy proof, board lists, and long-range plans. Applications must be submitted by January 6, 2025, for FY2026 operations occurring from July 1, 2025, to May 15, 2026.

Grantee organizations are required to actively promote the Specialty License Plate Program through structured campaigns, meeting specific documentation requirements. Failure to meet these promotional or reporting obligations may result in a reduction of the grant award. Applicants are encouraged to maintain compliance with all eligibility and financial criteria and address any changes in organizational structure or finances promptly.