Most of us, at one time or another, have seen an unmet need in our community and thought to ourselves, or even said out loud, “If I only had more money, I would fix that problem.” Our local communities are filled with generous people who contribute to improving the lives of others every day. However, it’s rare to see this level of generosity and focus as exhibited by the McElhattan Foundation.

Founder Kent McElhattan, who grew up in Franklin, has a genuine passion for helping the community thrive. Along with members of his family and local leaders, he recently announced the Foundation’s plans to provide a unique funding opportunity for entrepreneurs based in Franklin.

The McElhattan Challenge is a bold, community-driven initiative designed to promote economic development, business expansion, and job creation in the City of Franklin. Funded by the McElhattan Foundation and managed in partnership with the City of Franklin, this grant program supports innovative projects that contribute to the city’s long-term growth, vibrancy, and prosperity.

The Challenge is actively seeking bold, high-impact proposals that align with the shared economic development goals of the McElhattan Foundation and the City of Franklin. These goals include:

• Increasing employment opportunities, including the number and quality of jobs
• Leveraging private investment and fostering public-private partnerships
• Promoting business growth and retention
• Enhancing quality of life by supporting Franklin’s parks, trails, events, cultural spaces, and public services
• Encouraging industry diversification and addressing market gaps

If you have a BIG IDEA, you are invited to share your Letter of Interest at:

linktr.ee/mcelhattanchallenge

Community Engagement

Jess Carroll, Business Outreach Coordinator for the City of Franklin, shares that all Letters of Interest are welcome. Many may be perfectly suited for this grant, while others might be the seeds of a great idea that just need more nurturing before moving forward for potential funding.

Even applicants who do not receive funding are encouraged to join the Franklin Innovation Revitalization Exchange (FIRE) at FICDA, a collaborative group of founders, investors, mentors, and industry experts. This network supports ongoing collaboration, business development, and knowledge-sharing.

To learn more about the history of the McElhattan Foundation, its mission, vision, and other areas of funding, visit: mcelhattan.org

“‘Bring us your bold ideas’ is more than a slogan — it’s a challenge. We built Industrial Scientific Corporation on outrageous, calculated boldness. We took risks no one else was willing to take. At the Foundation, we’re hungry for ideas that will transform our program areas — and we’ll support those.”

— Kent McElhattan