Tennessee expands inclusive college grants

Tennessee is moving to broaden college opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, with a statewide effort that represents one of the most significant state investments in inclusive higher education planned for 2026. The Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging (DDA) has opened applications for the 2026 Tennessee Believes grant, creating a new round of competitive funding aimed at helping campuses build or grow inclusive higher education options for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

2026 Tennessee Believes grant now open

Through the 2026 Tennessee Believes grant, more than $537,000 is available to colleges and universities seeking to start or expand inclusive higher education programs for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The grant is structured to increase access across Tennessee, supporting campus based efforts that make post-secondary participation more attainable for students who have historically faced limited pathways into college settings.

State-funded initiative with established investment

Launched in 2021 and supported through state funding, the Tennessee Believes initiative has already directed more than $4 million toward programs designed to expand meaningful college experiences for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

These programs focus on practical participation and engagement. The initiative supports opportunities for students to take part in coursework, engage in internships, and pursue meaningful paths toward graduation. The approach reflects a focus on inclusion within the day-to-day academic and career-building elements of college life.

Competitive timeline and statewide participation

The 2026 grant funding is competitive and intended to broaden access statewide. Applications are due by February 13, 2026, and grant recipients are expected to be announced by summer 2026. Institutions that have participated in previous funding rounds include a mix of public and private colleges and universities. Prior participants have worked to integrate students with intellectual and developmental disabilities into campus life, classroom learning, and community engagement. Overall, the Tennessee Believes initiative highlights Tennessee’s ongoing commitment to building accessible, inclusive post-secondary education pathways that move beyond traditional supports, helping make college a realistic option for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.