Applications now open through September 15 for awards up to $5,000
(KNOXVILLE, Tn.) – The Tennessee Valley Authority has opened applications for its 2025 STEM Award Program, offering educators across its seven-state service region the opportunity to secure funding for innovative science, technology, engineering, and mathematics projects.
Program Details
The initiative will distribute $1.5 million in grants to support STEM learning initiatives in K-12 classrooms and schools throughout TVA’s coverage area. Individual awards can reach up to $5,000, with applications accepted from August 1 through September 15, 2025, at TVA.com/STEM.
“We know that today’s students will shape the future of the Tennessee Valley region,” said Don Moul, TVA President and Chief Executive Officer. “Now, more than ever, we want to support and encourage STEM education – a career in STEM will provide good opportunities for students and ensure our region’s workforce is prepared to provide energy security for the next generation.”
Partnership and Impact
TVA collaborates with Bicentennial Volunteers Inc., its retiree organization, to administer the program. The Tennessee STEM Innovation Network, managed by Battelle, operates the competitive grant process.
The program has demonstrated significant reach since its 2018 launch, providing nearly $8 million in awards that have benefited over 730,000 students. Last year alone, the initiative received 647 applications and funded 342 projects.
“As a TVA retiree organization, Bicentennial Volunteers Incorporated is honored to partner with TVA in providing STEM education awards to teachers across the Tennessee Valley Region,” said Kathy Black, BVI president. “We recognize that exposing students to science, technology, engineering, and math will inspire many students to seek opportunities in those fields.”
Application Requirements
Eligible applicants include teachers and school administrators from public or private K-12 institutions within TVA’s service territory. Schools must receive electricity from a local power distributor served by TVA.
The program prioritizes projects that align with TVA’s core focus areas:
- Environmental stewardship
- Energy innovation
- Economic and career development
- Community problem-solving
About TVA
As the nation’s largest public power supplier, TVA serves more than 10 million people across seven southeastern states through one of the most diverse energy portfolios in the country, including nuclear, hydroelectric, solar, natural gas, and emerging technologies. The federally-owned corporation operates without taxpayer funding, generating revenue through electricity sales while maintaining some of the nation’s lowest rates and highest reliability standards.
Beyond power generation, TVA manages flood control, navigation, and land stewardship for the Tennessee River system while supporting regional economic development initiatives. Teachers can apply at TVA.com/STEM.