As Tennessee’s number two industry, tourism is a significant contributor to the overall economic development and vitality of Tennessee. With recent years marking the largest visitor spending nationally in Tennessee’s history, it is imperative for the State to continue making key investments in events that drive job creation, tax revenue, and stimulate visitor spending.


The purpose of the Tennessee Special Event Fund is to provide monetary resources for bidding on and securing major events capable of generating $10,000,000 or more in direct economic impact or $1,000,000 in state and local tax generation unless determined to be an Underrepresented Event Location. The Fund demonstrates a monetary commitment on the state level to attract and maintain high-profile events to call Tennessee home. This incentive-based grant program allows Tennessee a competitive advantage in securing events that promise measurable performance outcomes, including tangible economic impact to communities.

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