Thrive Launches New Civic Experiment Grant Program

The Civic Experiments Grant Program provides funding to turn local conversation into community-led action.

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Communities grow stronger when people have meaningful ways to come together, share ideas, and build momentum. Thrive Regional Partnership, with support from the Trust for Civic Life, has announced the launch of the Civic Experiment Grant Program to help small local groups and grassroots projects spark connection, collaboration, and problem solving across the tri-state greater Chattanooga region.

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The program is built for neighbors who recognize potential in their streets, parks, gathering places, and shared experiences. It invites residents to explore how small ideas can create powerful momentum for belonging and collective action.

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Key Dates:

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February 23, 2026: Virtual information session. Register here.

March 31, 2026: Application deadline

April 30, 2026: Award decisions finalized

May 2026: Awards distributed and orientation

June-November 2026: Implementation

October 7-9, 2026: Grantee Showcase at the 2026 Tri-State Summit

December 2026: Celebration and reporting

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What are Civic Experiments?

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Civic Experiments are locally led projects that bring neighbors together for civic dialogue, shared learning, and collaborative problem-solving. These projects do not have to be large or complex, and, ideally, they strengthen belonging by making connections to the natural treasures, built environment, and culture of a community.

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Experiments are unique to each community. Some examples may be: community gardens, downtown or neighborhood gatherings, civic leadership training, volunteer-led trail groups, or community centers providing third spaces for residents to connect.

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How do Civic Experiments strengthen communities?

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Civic Experiments bring residents together for civic dialogue, shared learning, and collaborative problem-solving, offering many benefits along the way.

• Increase Civic Opportunities. Residents gain new ways to connect in ways that are relevant, meaningful, and enjoyable. 
• Increase Civic Participation. More people get involved, including residents who may not always be invited into community life. 
• Solve Problems Together. Neighbors work together around a shared challenge and make measurable progress within a year, even when perspectives differ. 

Thrive Regional Partnership encourages residents across the region to imagine what could become possible in their communities with a little support. A small idea or project can be the spark for community momentum and belonging.

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Applications are now open through March 31, 2026. To learn more, please join us for a virtual information session on February 23, 2026 at 11:00 AM Eastern.