W.A.T.R. Grant

Grant at a Glance:

• Eligible grantees include marinas that pay rent or a water access fee to TVA or the Army Corps of Engineers
• Up to $50,000 grant
  • Number of grants awarded will depend on available funds and the number of applications received
• Eligible projects will enhance the visitors’ experience at the marina and/or draw visitors from 50+ miles away.
  • Examples of previous projects that were approved include but are not limited to the following: a) additional rental boat slips; b) additional lighting; c) building or expanding a restaurant; and d) marketing.

Grant Overview:

Tourism is one of the largest industries and most important economic drivers in Tennessee. The purpose of this grant is to improve and maintain access to Tennessee’s waterways. These funds will provide eligible marinas the opportunity to undertake improvements to their property, to allow a better visitor experience, or submit advertising expenses designed to draw visitors from fifty (50) or more miles away.

Reimbursement-based Grant:

Maximum request $50,000. Grantees will be reimbursed for eligible expenditures.

WATR Grant Timeline:

Nov 10, 2025 Applications open

Apr 30, 2026 Project(s) complete and apps with reimbursement request paperwork submitted

May 1 – 14, 2026 Review period

May 15, 2026 Contracts and invoices sent for signature

May 29, 2026 Deadline for contracts to be signed

July 31, 2026 Final reports due