Clinch-Powell & The Nature Conservancy Launch Cumberland Forest Community Fund

In celebration of Earth Month, Clinch-Powell is excited to announce an upcoming grant opportunity, in partnership with The Nature Conservancy, that will support nature-based economic and community development in the region! The Cumberland Forest Community Fund is set to launch in Tennessee in May, with applications open to Campbell, Claiborne, Grainger, Hancock, and Union counties in the first request for proposals.

Eligible projects will demonstrate “triple bottom line outcomes” through tangible contributions to: (1) local economic development, (2) increased community capacity, and (3) enhanced environmental quality. $100,000 in funding, provided to Clinch-Powell by a grant from the Cumberland Forest Limited Partnership (managed by The Nature Conservancy), is available to be awarded to selected projects and programs. The program will be managed by Clinch-Powell, an East Tennessee based not-for-profit organization with more than 30 years invested in building strong communities, caring for people, and protecting natural resources.

“The possibilities are endless, with funding open to both public and private agencies. There is a real opportunity here to develop new partnerships and build on the increased demand for nature-based activities as a result of the pandemic,” says Clinch-Powell executive director, Lindy Turner. Relevant businesses and endeavors that have been impacted by COVID-19 are encouraged to apply, and committee members are hopeful that funds will help stimulate local communities after the unplanned challenges and setbacks of the past year.

Examples of projects that may receive funding include, but are not limited to: creation of greenways/trails, nature-based or ecotourism venues, renewable energy initiatives, outdoor recreation opportunities, sustainable infrastructure, conservation of resources, and agriculture-based projects.

The application window will run from May 1-31, 2021. More information on the Cumberland Forest Community Fund administered by Clinch-Powell can be found at www.clinchpowell.net/CumberlandForestCommunityFund .