Innovation & Research for Industry Success (IRIS) Grant Program
The IRIS Grant Program funds collaborative R&D between Tennessee companies and research institutions to advance innovation and solve industry challenges, led by the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development.
Funder: Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development
Due Dates: Rolling (applications accepted continuously)
Funding Amounts: Awards start at $250,000 (minimum); amount based on project costs at the research partner.
Summary: Supports collaborative R&D projects between Tennessee-based companies and research institutions to drive innovation and industry investment in the state.
Key Information: Substantial industry financial commitment required; not for early-stage startups or companies reliant on state funding.
Description
The Innovation & Research for Industry Success (IRIS) Grant Program is designed to foster new industry-led research and development (R&D) partnerships between Tennessee-based companies and the state’s leading research institutions. Administered by the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development, the program aims to lower barriers for companies to pilot innovative technologies, advance technical knowledge, and address industry-specific challenges. The IRIS Grant encourages meaningful financial participation from industry partners and targets projects that demonstrate strong potential for business growth, technical advancement, and long-term investment in Tennessee’s innovation ecosystem.
