The Future Forward Innovation Grant, led by the State Collaborative on Reforming Education (SCORE), is designed to support transformative innovations in Tennessee’s education system by enabling accelerated education-to-career credential pathways. The grant focuses on closing the gap between education and economic opportunity by fostering programs that align educational experiences with real-world workforce needs, particularly those leading to high-demand, high-wage careers.
SCORE awards up to $75,000 in funding per grantee and provides a cohort-style fellowship experience that includes expert mentorship and strategic consulting over a year-long period. The initiative prioritizes proposals that are student-centered and market-driven, requiring collaboration among K-12 institutions, postsecondary education, community organizations, and industry partners to develop programs that produce tangible career outcomes.
The 2025 cycle includes seven funded partnerships across Tennessee. One awardee, the University of Memphis, is collaborating with community colleges, technical institutions, and regional workforce organizations to launch a bachelor of applied science program embedded with stackable non-degree credentials. Another recipient, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, is creating a Python and data analytics credential that leverages high school computer science curricula to prepare students for careers in data science, particularly within healthcare contexts.
Eligible applicants include individuals and organizations across the education, nonprofit, government, and private sectors. Applicants must propose programs that address specific regional workforce needs and demonstrate active collaboration with industry partners. Emphasis is placed on strategies that accelerate students’ credential attainment and improve their access to economically sustainable careers.
Applications for the 2025 cycle are due by April 11, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. CT. A selection committee comprised of leaders from education, entrepreneurship, and venture capital will review submissions and provide ongoing mentorship to awarded projects. Grantees will be publicly announced in mid-May 2025. For details and application instructions, visit tnscore.org/innovationgrant. Questions may be directed to the program office at 615-727-1545. This program is offered on an annual basis, with future cycles expected but not yet scheduled or dated.
Emphasize partnerships, student impact, and market relevance. Clearly define how your credential connects to a high-demand career.
