Proof of Concept Faculty Grant
The TTAC Proof of Concept Grant Program empowers Tennessee Tech faculty and staff to turn their innovations into real-world solutions. Administered through the Tennessee Technology Advancement Consortium (TTAC), this program provides strategic funding to help researchers advance early-stage technologies with strong commercial potential.
Grants range from $500 to $10,000 and are intended to help achieve key development milestones, de-risk innovations, and build connections with potential industry partners. Whether you’re working on a novel technology, scientific breakthrough, or creative work, this program is designed to bridge the gap between groundbreaking ideas and tangible impact.
Priority will be given to projects that have moved beyond the initial ideation phase and show a clear path toward commercialization.
Application Details
Applications are currently closed but will reopen soon. Please check this website and Tech Times for upcoming announcements.
Eligibility & Requirements
Who Can Apply
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Full-time Tennessee Tech faculty or staff are eligible to apply.
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While students may collaborate, the primary applicant must be the faculty or staff member who owns the technology.
Project Scope
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Projects must demonstrate strong commercial potential and align with the purpose of the grant: advancing innovation and enabling market readiness.
Invention Disclosure Requirement
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Applicants must submit an invention disclosure prior to receiving grant funding.
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Access the Invention Disclosure Form here.
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Need help? Contact Michael Aikens at maikens@tntech.edu and Eli Hudson at ebhudson42@tntech.edu.
Grant Budget & Use of Funds
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Grants may range from $500 to $10,000.
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All expenses must be aligned with key commercialization milestones.
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Submit your budget using the official budget template.
Ineligible Expenses Include
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Indirect costs
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Equipment purchases (>$5,000 per item)
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Graduate student course fees
Application Instructions
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One application per technology.
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Multiple technologies? Submit separate applications — only one grant awarded per applicant.
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Complete all required fields on the application form.
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Upload a finalized budget using the provided template.
Faculty Innovator Showcase
Each year, TTAC hosts the Faculty Innovator Showcase — a university-wide celebration of research and invention. This event connects faculty with industry leaders, government agencies, and internal collaborators to highlight the innovative work happening across campus.
Interested in presenting? Contact maikens@tntech.edu to express interest. Registration form coming soon.